Bound by Potions | Snarry

/ Acts of Sacrifice

The days following their discovery of the required sacrifice were filled with contemplation and quiet resolve. Both Harry and Snape knew that the path ahead would be challenging, but they were determined to see it through. They spent their evenings discussing their options, each trying to identify what they could give up to break the bond.

One evening, as they sat in Snape's quarters, Harry broke the silence. "Professor, I think I've decided what I'm willing to sacrifice."

Snape looked up from the potion he was preparing, his expression guarded but curious. "And what is that, Potter?"

Harry took a deep breath. "I'm willing to give up the Invisibility Cloak. It's been a part of my family for generations, but I think it's time to let it go. It's more than just a magical artefact to me; it's a connection to my parents."

Snape nodded slowly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of surprise and respect. "A significant sacrifice indeed. Your cloak has undoubtedly been a source of great comfort and utility to you."

Harry nodded, feeling a pang of sadness but also a sense of resolve. "Yes, it has. But if giving it up means we can break this bond, it's worth it."

Snape was silent for a moment, then spoke. "Very well, Potter. I too have made my decision. I will relinquish my collection of Lily's letters."

Harry's eyes widened in surprise. He knew how much those letters meant to Snape. They were his last connection to Harry's mother, a tangible reminder of their friendship and his unrequited love.

"Are you sure, Professor?" Harry asked, his voice filled with empathy.

Snape's expression softened. "Yes, Potter. It is time. Holding onto the past has only served to bind me further in regret and sorrow. If sacrificing these letters can free us both, then it is a sacrifice I am willing to make."

With their decisions made, Harry and Snape prepared for the ritual that would break the bond. According to the ancient scroll, the act of sacrifice had to be performed at the site where the bond was originally formed—the Restricted Section of the library.

Late one night, under the cover of darkness, Harry and Snape made their way to the library. The castle was eerily silent, the shadows deep and unsettling. As they entered the Restricted Section, a sense of anticipation hung in the air.

Snape produced a small vial of potion and handed it to Harry. "This will enhance the magical properties of our sacrifices, ensuring the bond is broken completely."

Harry nodded and took the vial, feeling a mixture of nervousness and determination. He placed the Invisibility Cloak on the table, its silvery fabric shimmering in the dim light. Snape followed suit, laying down the letters with a reverent touch.

They each took a step back, and Snape began to chant an incantation in a low, resonant voice. The air around them seemed to thrum with magical energy, and the items on the table began to glow softly.

"Potter, now," Snape instructed.

Harry uncorked the vial and poured the potion over the Invisibility Cloak and the letters. The glow intensified, and the items seemed to dissolve into a fine mist, swirling together in the air.

As the mist enveloped them, Harry felt a strange sensation, as if a heavy weight was being lifted from his shoulders. He glanced at Snape and saw a similar look of relief and wonder in his eyes.

The mist slowly dissipated, leaving nothing but a faint, lingering warmth. The bond between them had been broken.

"It's done," Snape said quietly, his voice tinged with awe.

Harry nodded, feeling a sense of freedom he hadn't realised he was missing. "Thank you, Professor. For everything."

Snape inclined his head. "And you, Potter. You have shown great courage and maturity throughout this ordeal."

They stood there for a moment, the weight of their shared experience hanging in the air. Despite their differences, they had come to understand and respect each other in a way neither had thought possible.

As they made their way back to their respective quarters, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of closure. The forced bond had brought them together in the most unexpected way, and while it had been a difficult journey, it had also been transformative.

Harry glanced at Snape one last time before heading up to Gryffindor Tower. "Goodnight, Professor."

"Goodnight, Harry," Snape replied, using Harry's first name for the first time.

With the bond broken and a new understanding forged, Harry felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The future was uncertain, but for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of hope and possibility.