Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Vulpes	By : Relevant_Peach Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male Views: 8816 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or any of the characters described here. I make no money from this work.

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
- 7
Things became more complicated still when Severus donned his teaching robes, prepared to go to his first class, only to stop short. Harry sat patiently by the door. He was still wearing the flannel sleep pants that Severus had magicked onto him the previous evening, but his torso was bare, as were his feet. Behaving as oddly as he was, it wasn’t like Severus could allow him to pad after him like he’d done in fox form.

Severus placed his forehead against the cool wood of the door and pondered the situation. He was trapped. Finding no other option, Severus threw some floo powder into the flames and called “Albus Dumbledore”. When the long beard appeared, followed by Albus’ smiling visage, Severus said flatly “We have a problem”. It didn’t take Albus long to realize that Severus would be unable to exit without leaving a hysterical Harry behind.

“Very well” Albus said. “You’ll spend the day working with Harry. It’s been a long time since I supervised a Potions class. What a pleasant turn this day has taken!” He smiled cheerfully at them both and and disappeared from the flames. Severus growled in frustration. Albus was a menace in a Potions Lab, he knew from previous experience. Still, it couldn’t be helped.

Harry’s stomach suddenly growled, and he turned appeasing eyes on Severus. “Come then, Potter. Let’s get you fed”

At Severus’ insistence, Harry ate on a dining chair, even if he was crouching. Severus showed him how to hold a fork, and reoriented him when, fork forgotten, he delicately nipped a piece of bacon from the plate with his teeth. After Severus cut his food for him, and again placed the fork firmly in his right hand, Harry managed to take a few bites using the utensils. He cast a beaming smile at Severus, and, despite himself, Severus found himself smiling back. “Well done, Harry”. Things were going rather well when, stymied by a goblet of pumpkin juice, Harry found himself doused in the sticky liquid. Severus tried to calculate how long it had been since he’d bathed, and, since he didn’t fancy his bed polluted by anyone’s stinking body, they found themselves in the bathroom.

Severus turned on the shower, and ensured the temperature wasn’t going to burn Harry. His brow wrinkled in consternation. How would he instruct Harry how to shower while protecting his modesty? Feeling immeasurably awkward, he gestured to Harry’s sleep trousers. “You should…remove your clothing”. A blush rose on his cheeks as Severus realized that Harry had no idea what he was saying. Desperate not to prolong the situation, he placed his hands on Harry’s slim hips and loosened the trousers. The slipped to the floor, leaving Harry standing naked in front of Severus, smiling beatifically. He nudged Harry into the shower, trying in vain not to notice the appealing dimples on either side of Harry’s backside. Despite the inappropriateness of the situation, Severus was a man, a gay man, and his appreciation of Harry’s body was instinctive, if inappropriate. As he stood under the warm water, a groan of pleasure escaped Harry’s parted lips. Severus tried in vain to think chaste thoughts. Harry simply stood under the stream, letting the water wash over him, unmoving.

Severus fruitlessly begged his body to stop betraying him as he lathered a flannel and placed it into Harry’s hand. When Harry simply stared dumbly at it, Severus gently placed a hand over Harry’s and pressed it to his chest. “You need to wash yourself, Harry. Like this”. Severus kept his eyes on Harry’s face: any straying of his gaze would do nothing to improve the tightening of his trousers. Harry seemed to be getting the hang of washing himself, to Severus’ simultaneous relief and disappointment. When he was rinsed and wrapped in a fluffy towel, Severus summoned some clothing from his own wardrobe. As quickly and clinically as he could, Severus helped Harry dress, cursing his traitorous body for reacting to a student.

The situation wasn’t improved much when Harry nuzzled his head under Severus’ chin. “Harry, no”. The younger man’s eyes filled with confusion, and hurt. He understood the word ‘no’. Severus was filled with helplessness. How could he explain to Harry that there were different rules for his fox self than for his human self? With a sigh, Severus left the room. “Come”. Harry followed behind, wary and unsure.

It was painstaking, and there were more failures than victories that day, but by the time curfew rolled around, Harry was making progress. He’d spoken again, calling Severus “Sir”. When Severus effusively praised the attempt, Harry seemed to increase his efforts. “I’m Harry?” He asked, as Severus patted the covers around him.

“You are”

“And you’re Sir?”

“Yes, or Professor Snape, if you prefer”

“I feel…odd”

“Yes, I know you do” Severus replied soothingly. “Rest now. Perhaps you’ll feel better in the morning”

Indeed, in the morning, Harry was better. He sat at the table obediently enough, and was doing his best to communicate. His sentences were halted and disjointed, but Severus could see that he was trying hard. As they finished their tea, it was obvious that something was on Harry’s mind, but the words were coming slowly. His eyes were narrowed as he focused on translating the concepts into words. “My…” his face flushed. “My Weasley? No. My Herm…Ugh” His hand smacked the table in frustration.

“You wish to know if your friends are well?”

Harry fiercely nodded. “They came? When…I was hurting”

“Yes, you did see Mister Weasley and Miss Granger while you were in the Hospital Wing. They’re quite well. Miss Granger has taken to sending me owls to inquire after your health. I’ve had three this morning alone”

A ghost of a smile appeared on Harry’s face. “I…like to…to”

“Shall I invite them to visit you?”

At Harry’s grateful nod, Severus found himself wondering how it had come to this. How had Severus Snape, Death Eater, Spy for the Order of the Phoenix, Feared Head of Slytherin House, come to dance attendance on James Potter’s blasted son? But, as he watched Harry earnestly struggle with the lace of his trainer, he realized, he didn’t think of him that way anymore. Somehow, the simplicity of the mind of a small fox had managed to encroach all of Severus’ defences. So much so, that he was willing to entertain a horde of Gryffindors in his personal quarters.

The visit, irritating as it was, was very good for Harry. When Miss Granger had run in, tears in her eyes and wrapped her arms around Harry, he’d cast a desperate look in Severus’ direction, before taking a breath, and allowing himself to be embraced. She’d been full of helpful ideas, as well. She’d brought Harry’s photo album, which contained pictures of his parents, and friends, as well as his invisibility cloak. Harry stroked the silvery fabric lovingly.

“I thought that maybe you could go for a little fly, mate” Ron had been methodically working his way through the plate of sandwiches that the house elves had produced, but, as he chewed through them with startling efficiency, he looked closely at Harry. I can’t think of what else might make you feel more like a Wizard.”

Severus felt a thin shard of terror make its way down his spine, but he saw the reason of Weasley’s suggestion. “If you’re very careful” he said, “I think it’s a reasonable suggestion”

“Careful” Harry echoed, his eyes on the fabric of the cloak.

Severus turned to Weasley, his face cold. “I cannot express to you how important it is that Harry’s current condition be guarded from other students. His very life may depend upon it. I hold you personally responsible for guaranteeing it”

“I understand, sir. Thank you”. Severus’ forehead knitted as he regarded the young man. He’d always thought Weasley weak, addle-minded, but his countenance had changed as he was charged with Harry’s safety. His shoulders were back, and his blue eyes were steely. “I will keep Harry safe. I always have”

“You have” Severus admitted. He found it curious that Weasley or Granger hadn’t inquired as to his seeming change of heart regarding Harry’s care. The Severus Snape of last term wouldn’t have been so guileless in his protectiveness. Something had changed between him and the Golden Trio. Nevertheless, it couldn’t be helped. Severus did care for Harry now, and squabbling over him wouldn’t be productive. “I trust you”

“Yes, sir. Come on Harry”. Ron took Harry’s arm gently, and led him from Severus’ quarters. As the door closed behind them, Severus fought an instinct to run after them. It was foolhardy to allow Harry to wander the corridors in his current mental state, but Severus had no doubt that flying on the Quidditch pitch was a good idea. It simply meant that Severus would wear the carpet away, pacing, until they returned.

Harry seemed much improved, three hours later, when the three students returned. Their cheeks were all bright from the cool air, and Harry’s eyes were dancing. “Sir!” His voice was joyful. “I flew”

“Did you find it helpful?” He asked.

“I did” Harry said. “I am remembering”. Severus was relieved. It did no one any good for Harry to remain in Severus’ quarters, terrified and feral. Yet the notion of him leaving, heading to Gryffindor Tower with his friends, caused Severus to berate himself over ridiculous feelings of loneliness.

“Good” Severus replied. “I imagine you’ll be well enough to return to your friends, and your studies by week’s end. Mister Weasley, Miss Granger, you should return to your Dormitory. It wouldn’t do for you to be seen out after curfew”

“Thank you, sir” Granger said, her sharp eyes regarding him closely. Severus nodded in response. “Goodnight, Harry”. She enfolded Harry in a warm hug, and his arms encircled her waist automatically.

“Good night” Harry said absently, his attention on the snitch that Ron had left carelessly on the table. Its wings buzzed.

“‘Night Harry” Ron said, fondly tapping him on the arm, and then they were gone, and Harry and Severus were alone again.

“Sir?”

“Yes, Harry?”

“I didn’t thank you. For what you’ve done. For me.”

“No thanks are necessary, Harry.” Severus knew that his words sounded formal, and it felt strange to continue using Harry’s first name, but he refused to go backwards.

“No. I know that being my fox was a bad idea, but I was afraid. I think…Vernon might have killed me.”

“I know”

“You do, don’t you? You know what it’s like?” Harry’s eyes were very green as he gazed through his lashes at Severus. He looked ethereal, fragile.

“I do”

“Who hurt you?” The moment the words escaped his mouth, Harry’s eyes fell, his face shuttered, as though he feared he’d overstepped a line. For this reason, Severus confessed something that he’d never shared with anyone.

“My father”

“You survived” Harry’s voice was quiet.

“And so did you.” Severus reached out and placed his hand underneath Harry’s chin, raising his face so that he looked at Severus. “You’ll never return there, Harry. I won’t allow it”

“That’s why I came to you. I knew that you’d keep me safe. You always have”

Something passed, unspoken, between them. Severus, inadequate in matters of human interaction, was unable to identify it, but his instincts twanged, and he turned away. “It’s late. You should rest”

“Um, yes. About that.” Harry’s voice was uncomfortable. “I’ve been sleeping in your bed. I’m sorry for…trouble…”

“It’s nothing, Harry”

“Well, I will… sleeping on the sofa tonight. I’ve incon…” his brow knitted as he tried to recall the word. “troubled you enough”. The look in his eyes told Severus that the conversation was over, so he summoned a blanket and pillow, and brought them to Harry. As he curled into his customary ball, Severus watched him from the doorway, ignoring an unbidden wish to see Harry sleeping in his bed.

Harry’s recovery continued apace over the next few days. His friends visited him each day, and gradually, Harry’s animal instincts lessened, and his human behaviour became more prevalent. On Friday, as he prepared to move into Gryffindor tower, Harry stood by the fire, his eyes watching the flames.

“It will be strange” he said finally.

Severus didn’t need to ask him what he meant. They’d grown comfortable with one another over the previous days. Severus knew that he’d miss Harry’s quiet presence, but said nothing of his changed feelings. “You’ll do well returning to your dormitories”

Harry nodded. “I’ll never be able to repay you for what you’ve done for me” he said.

“There’s no need.”

“Will things go back to the way they were?” Harry asked, concern evident in his expression.

Severus pondered this. He knew what Harry was asking. Would Severus be cruel to him in public? Would Severus treat him as though he were nothing more than James’ son? “Things aren’t the same” he said finally. “However there are enough children of Death Eaters in the castle that I will need to ensure that no suspicions are raised.”

Harry sighed. “I thought so.”

“But Harry…” Severus’ voice was urgent. “You must know that my treatment of you isn’t a reflection of how I feel about you. I will continue to watch over you, and I will always be here for you”

A ghost of a smile appeared on Harry’s lips. “Thank you, sir. I know that”

“Now go. I’m sure your friends are missing you”

Harry exited through the doorway, and Severus tried to ignore how empty his chambers now felt. He wondered if he should warn Harry to avoid Draco Malfoy, but decided not to, hoping that the years of intimidation he’d cultivated with the little monster would pay off.

Severus went through the motions. He brewed, instructed, took points from other Houses with a viciousness that had even Albus raising an eyebrow. It had been a week since Harry had moved back into Gryffindor Tower. He looked well enough, laughing with his friends in the Great Hall at meals, his head down studiously in Potions lessons. Severus summoned his marking and a generous glass of Firewhiskey. Settling by the fire, he opened his bottle of red ink and began making his way through a stack of first-year essays. He was beginning to make headway when a knock at his door startled him. Glancing at the clock, he noted that it was after curfew. It had best not be one of his little snakes.

To his surprise, no one stood in front of the door when he opened it. Growling his fury at a suspected prank from Peeves, Severus turned to shut it, when a small voice said “It’s me”.

Severus stepped back to allow the owner of the voice to enter. He flung off the invisibility cloak to reveal Harry, looking miserable. “What’s wrong?” Severus asked.

“Nothing, really. I’m just…overwhelmed”

“Come” Severus returned to his spot by the fire, calling a house elf and ordering tea. Harry perched uncertainly on an armchair. “Tell me” he invited.

“It’s really nothing. Everyone’s the same, but I’m…not. All of my housemates are so noisy, and nobody tells you that your sense of smell changes when you become an animagus. It’s constant sensory overload. I just needed a break”

“And you came to me” Severus tried to hide the delight in his voice. “Why?”

“I told you before, sir. I feel safe here”

“Very well. You are welcome here when you need a break. However, I must insist that you don’t violate curfew again. Will it ever sink into that mind of yours that you’re not safe here in the castle? You’re the last student who should be wandering around unattended.”

“With all due respect, sir, it’s not like Voldemort is waiting to snatch me from the Slytherin Corridor.”

“You mock, but Harry, we don’t know what the Dark Lord is planning. He could act through one of his students at any time.”

“I know. I promise, I’ll be careful”

“See that you do. Mister Malfoy already stumbled in here once and got entirely the wrong idea about you and I.”

Harry blushed. “He did?”

“Yes. It was shortly after we reversed your transformation. You were not yourself, and it appeared as though we were embracing.”

“Oh sir. That’s terrible”

Severus felt an irrational stab of injury. “No matter, Mister Potter. I’m certain that your reputation will remain untarnished. I threatened him with certain death.”

Harry looked distressed. “Don’t be silly. I’m not worried about my stupid reputation. Malfoy’s dad is on the Board of Governors. Do you think that they could cause any problems? If allegations were made that you were…involved with a student, they could get you into trouble”. Harry’s face was crimson, but Severus’ pride was restored at his rationale.

“Don’t worry. Dumbledore understands the situation. He’ll smooth anything over with the Board, I’m certain. The more important thing is that we keep your animagus status a secret. That could be disastrous, if it were widely known. Tell me, have you been working with Minerva to practice your transformations?”

Harry nodded, taking a sip of his tea. “Yes sir. Professor McGonagal has been really helpful. I’m still kind of frightened to transform, though, without the potion nearby.”

“You? Frightened? I didn’t realize that you had sense enough to be cautious about anything”

Harry grinned. “I don’t, mostly.” His face became serious though. “It’s just…there’s too much riding on me, isn’t there? If I get stuck as some dumb fox, who’s going to beat Voldemort then? I can’t be stupid, and risk everything…”

“Harry, can I ask you something?”

“Of course”. Harry looked at him then, so earnest and trusting, that Severus felt his heart wrench.

“I’m afraid that I violated your privacy when we picked up your things at the Dursley’s. In your journal, you mentioned the Headmaster honing you like a weapon. Is that truly how you see yourself?”

Conflicting emotions warred on Harry’s face before he settled, a serene expression crossing his features. “It’s all I can be, sir.”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“Do you know what a Horcrux is?”

Severus stilled. Of course he’d heard the term before, but it was disgusting magic. “I’m aware of the term, yes.”

“Did you know that Voldemort has them? A bunch of them?”

Severus felt his hand approach his face. “Merlin, no!”

“Yeah. I think that he intended to make six.”

“Harry, how do you know this?”

“I pay closer attention than you think, sir. When Dumbledore told me about the prophecy last year, I started researching how it was that he survived, and how he ended up coming back. There were some incredibly helpful books in the Black Library. By the time I started thinking about the Diary, it clinched it. He’s been making Horcruxes, sir.”

“You said he intended to make six”

“Yes. That what what he intended. But there are seven Horcruxes. Six, now that the Diary has been destroyed.”

“What are you saying, Harry?”

“When Voldemort killed my mother, he unknowingly splintered his soul a final time. And the soul fragment ended up latching on to the only living thing present.”

Severus fell horror, black and oily, creeping through his senses. “Harry…”

“Yes, sir. I’m a Horcrux. Dumbledore doesn’t know that I know, but I’ve come to terms with it. I’ll need to die, and it will need to happen at the right moment, or he’ll live on”. Harry gave Severus a funny little grin, one that didn’t quite hit his eyes. “So, as you can see, staying alive has become rather a priority, at the moment.”
- 5
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