By Blood

Chapter 2: Strained Beginnings

Days turned into weeks, and the strained relationship between Severus Snape and Harry Potter continued to evolve within the confines of Spinner's End. Despite Snape's efforts to be a father figure, his cold demeanor proved to be a formidable barrier in their path towards mutual understanding.

As Harry delved into Lily's book, he found solace in her words. Her meticulous notes and insightful commentary guided him through the intricacies of magic, giving him a glimpse into the brilliance that had run through her veins. The connection he felt with his late mother strengthened his resolve to excel, to make her proud.

Snape watched from the corners as Harry tirelessly practiced spells, his determination evident in his every movement. The more Harry grew in his magical abilities, the more Snape's conflicted emotions intensified. He had hoped the revelation of his true parentage would bridge the gap between them, but he found himself constantly wrestling with the weight of his past and the expectations he had placed upon Harry.

One evening, as they sat at the small kitchen table, Snape cleared his throat, breaking the silence that had hung between them like a heavy fog. "Harry, there is something I need to discuss with you."

Harry glanced up, his emerald eyes filled with curiosity. "What is it, Snape?"

Severus winced at the familiarity of Harry's tone but decided to ignore it for the moment. "I believe it is time for you to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

Harry's face lit up with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The prospect of leaving Spinner's End and finally discovering the wider world of magic held a great allure for him. But beneath the surface, a part of him wondered if he would ever truly fit in at Hogwarts.

Snape continued, his voice tinged with caution. "Hogwarts is not like Spinner's End, Harry. You'll encounter students from all walks of life, some of whom may question your background or view you with suspicion. It will be a test of your mettle."

Harry nodded, his eyes filled with determination. "I'm ready, Snape. I've faced challenges before, and I won't let anyone or anything stand in my way."

Snape regarded him with a mix of pride and concern. "Remember, Harry, there will be those who will judge you based on rumors and preconceived notions. But know this, you are not defined by your parents or their past. You are your own person, and I hope you never forget that."

Harry absorbed Snape's words, feeling a new sense of resolve building within him. He wouldn't let anyone's judgment or prejudice dictate his worth. He would forge his own path at Hogwarts and prove, both to others and himself, that he was capable of greatness.

In the weeks leading up to Harry's departure for Hogwarts, Snape embarked on an unconventional approach to his teaching methods. He incorporated practical exercises and duels, testing Harry's ability to hold his own in real-world scenarios. Snape pushed Harry to the limits of his endurance, knowing that the wizarding world was far from safe and that Harry needed to be prepared for anything that came his way.

The days blended into a whirl of hard work and tense interactions. Snape expected nothing less than perfection from Harry, demanding precision in every spell and potion he attempted. It was a grueling process, but Harry never backed down, his determination fueling his eagerness to prove himself.

One afternoon, in the midst of a particularly intense dueling session, Harry found himself face-to-face with Snape. The room crackled with energy as spells were cast in rapid succession. Harry's movements were swift but measured, his focus unwavering.

Snape attacked relentlessly, his spells powerful and precise. It was a tireless dance of wand movements and muttered incantations, each strike meeting a counterforce. Harry's concentration and quick thinking allowed him to deflect Snape's attacks, occasionally managing to sneak in an offensive spell of his own.

Their duel escalated, each aiming to outwit the other. Sweat dripped down their brows, mirroring the tangible tension that filled the room. Finally, Harry spotted an opening – a split-second delay in Snape's shield charm.

Harry seized the opportunity, casting a stunning spell with precision and speed. It hit Snape square in the chest, sending him flying backward and crashing into a bookshelf. The impact caused books to rain down upon him, their weight adding to the sense of defeat that engulfed the room.

Harry rushed to Snape's side, a mix of concern and guilt coursing through his veins. "Snape, I'm so sorry! Are you alright?"

Severus groaned, slowly pushing himself up from the pile of books. He regarded Harry with a mixture of awe and annoyance. "Merlin's beard, Potter. You certainly have some talent. But don't get cocky. A single victory in a controlled environment does not guarantee success in the real world. There is always room for improvement."

Harry flushed, chastened by Snape's words, but he also sensed a hint of grudging pride beneath his professor's stern exterior. Snape's dedication to his development only fueled Harry's determination to prove his worth, not only to Snape but to himself as well.

As the day of departure for Hogwarts drew closer, Snape and Harry made final preparations. They gathered the necessary supplies, double-checked Harry's wand, and discussed the intricacies of the various houses at Hogwarts. Snape encouraged Harry to seek out like-minded individuals, those who valued bravery and loyalty, and to avoid the allure of power and influence.

The day arrived, and Snape stood beside Harry at King's Cross Station, scanning the bustling crowd for any signs of danger. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of anxiety, the weight of responsibility resting heavy upon his shoulders. He handed Harry his train ticket, a small envelope containing gold for his expenses, and a small part of himself that he had kept hidden for so long.

"Take care, Harry," Snape said, his voice laced with unspoken emotions. "Remember what we discussed. Don't let anyone define you. You have the potential to be great, but it's up to you to unlock it."

Harry nodded, his hand tightening around his ticket. "Thank you, Snape. For everything."

Snape's face softened ever so slightly, and he reached out to place a hand on Harry's shoulder. It was a brief moment of connection, a silent acknowledgement of the bond that had formed between them.

As Harry disappeared into the crowd, melding seamlessly with the other students, Snape couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness. The cottage at Spinner's End suddenly felt emptier, shrouded in a silence that echoed his thoughts.

But beneath the veil of solitude, Snape knew that Harry's journey had only just begun. Hogwarts would reveal its secrets, challenge his resolve, and forge him into a young wizard capable of greatness. Snape silently vowed to continue guiding Harry, in whatever capacity he could, even from a distance.

As the train pulled out of the station, Snape watched until it disappeared from view, knowing that the next few years would stretch them to their limits. The path ahead was uncertain, but at least Harry would face it armed with knowledge, determination, and the unwavering support of a father that he had never known.