September 8, Hogwarts
Severus Snape's footsteps echoed softly in the empty corridors of Hogwarts as he made his way towards Professor Slughorn's office. 'The progress I've made with the Mind Arts is truly remarkable,' he thought, a rare sense of pride swelling within him.
Having mastered both "Energia Mentis" and "Scutum Mentis," Severus found that he could maintain these crucial foundations as naturally as breathing.
'It's as if a veil has been lifted, allowing me to see and feel the world more clearly,' he mused, acknowledging how this mastery had begun to shape his interactions and control over his emotions.
The clarity and calm afforded to him by his practice had become invaluable tools, sharpening his mind and offering a solace he had not known was possible.
His thoughts then drifted to the reason behind his current journey through the school's ancient halls. 'Slughorn must need assistance setting up for one of his Slug Club gatherings,' Severus speculated.
'He usually hosts the first party towards the end of September every term.' The prospect did not bother him; in fact, Severus found a certain satisfaction in being involved in the preparations.
It was an acknowledgment of his standing within the club, a position that came with its own set of advantages and recognition among his peers.
As he approached Slughorn's office, Severus paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts. 'This could also be an opportunity to discuss the Alchemy Certification Examination further or perhaps even delve into more advanced aspects of potion-making,' he considered, hopeful for a chance to expand his knowledge under Slughorn's tutelage.
With a final thought, 'Let's see what Slughorn has in store this time,' Severus raised his hand and tapped lightly on the door, the sound resonating softly in the corridor.
"Come in, Severus!" came Slughorn's voice from inside, warm and inviting. Taking a deep breath, Severus pushed open the door, stepping into the office that smelled faintly of various potion ingredients and the more enticing aroma of crystallized pineapple.
Upon entering the cozy, cluttered office, Severus Snape was greeted by the sight of Professor Horace Slughorn seated behind his desk, surrounded by towering stacks of books and an assortment of potion bottles that glittered like jewels under the soft light.
"Good afternoon, Professor," Severus said, his voice even and composed as he took the seat offered in front of the desk.
Slughorn beamed at him, pushing a bowl of crystallized pineapple towards Severus, which he politely declined.
"Severus, my boy, tell me, how are you finding the responsibilities that come with being a prefect? Not too burdensome, I hope?"
Severus allowed a small, sardonic smile to cross his lips before replying. "'Burden' is a bit strong, Professor. I prefer to think of it as an excellent practice for managing...less than cooperative potion ingredients."
His eyes sparkled with a hint of humor, but then he shifted to a more earnest tone. "But in all seriousness, I am taking the responsibilities seriously. I appreciate the faith you've placed in me by recommending me for the position."
Slughorn waved his hand dismissively, though his eyes twinkled with pride. "Oh, Severus, there was no question about it! You've shown remarkable talent and discipline—qualities that make for an excellent prefect. You've earned it, no doubt in my mind."
Severus nodded, feeling a rare surge of pride at the acknowledgment. "Thank you, Professor. I hope to live up to the expectations," he said, the sincerity in his voice clear. "Especially since it offers a unique perspective on the dynamics within the school. It's...enlightening."
"Ah, spoken like a true Slytherin!" Slughorn chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Using the opportunity to observe and learn. Excellent, Severus, excellent! I've always said you have a keen mind for more than just potions."
Slughorn leaned forward with a keen interest, the twinkle in his eye suggesting a shift towards a topic of particular importance. "Speaking of opportunities, Severus, have you given any thought to the Ministry's alchemy examination? It's quite the prestigious challenge," he inquired, watching Severus closely.
Severus slightly nodded, his expression serious yet determined. "Actually, Professor, I was intending to discuss that with you. I'm very interested in taking the exam. I believe it could be a significant step forward in my studies," he confided, his voice steady with conviction.
Slughorn's face lit up with enthusiasm, his earlier amusement giving way to genuine pride. "Wonderful, Severus, wonderful!" he exclaimed, clapping his hands together in delight. "I have every confidence in your abilities to clear the exam. In fact," he added, chuckling to himself, "there's been a small wager among the faculty regarding who will pass this time around."
He leaned back in his chair, the chuckle evolving into a hearty laugh. "It's been almost five years since a student has graduated with a specialization in alchemy. And, between you and me, I've been hoping that it would be a Slytherin who breaks that streak this time around."
Severus couldn't help but smile at Slughorn's infectious enthusiasm. "I'll do my best not to disappoint, Professor," he replied, the idea of contributing to Slytherin's prestige in such a unique way appealing to him.
Slughorn waved his hand dismissively, as if the notion of disappointment was utterly foreign. "Oh, my boy, I have no doubt about that. Your dedication to your studies, especially in potion-making and now alchemy, is commendable. This could very well be a proud moment for Slytherin House—and for you, Severus."
The conversation shifted towards more practical matters, with Slughorn offering advice on preparation strategies and emphasizing the importance of theoretical knowledge, something Severus was already well-versed in.
"Remember, Severus, alchemy is as much about understanding the principles as it is about practical application. Your exceptional theoretical groundwork will serve you well," Slughorn advised, his tone blending encouragement with the seriousness of a seasoned educator. Severus nodded, absorbing every word.
As the conversation continued, Slughorn let out a thoughtful sigh, the warmth in his eyes suggesting a mix of concern and intrigue. "Severus, while the alchemy examination presents a formidable challenge, it's not the only hurdle for those aspiring to master the art. Pursuing alchemy, as you know, can be quite the expensive endeavor. Unfortunately, Hogwarts doesn't provide subsidies for this particular field," Slughorn began, his tone measured and careful.
He was acutely aware of Severus's less privileged background and wanted to approach the subject with the sensitivity it deserved. "Now, don't misunderstand me," Slughorn hastened to add, seeing a flicker of concern in Severus's eyes. "This isn't a question of talent or merit. You've more than proven yourself in that regard. It's simply a matter of logistics, and logistics can often be managed," he said, offering an encouraging smile.
"And it so happens I have a way to help you with 'logistics,'" Slughorn said suggestively, a twinkle of intrigue lighting up his eyes.
Snape looked intrigued, leaning forward slightly. "And what would that be, Professor?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
Slughorn leaned closer, his expression turning serious. "This conversation should remain just between the two of us, Severus," he stated, his tone implying the gravity of what he was about to propose.
Snape snorted, a flicker of humor crossing his otherwise stoic face. "'Professor, I may be many things, but I am a Slytherin through and through. You can trust that this conversation will remain between us," he assured, his loyalty to the Slytherin code of secrecy evident in his words.
Satisfied, Slughorn nodded and withdrew a couple of thin books from his desk, handling them with a reverence that immediately caught Severus's attention. He handed them over to Snape. The first book, bound in dark leather with silver runes etched along the spine, contained the formula and methodology for brewing the Scent Veil Elixir—a potion of such complexity that it warranted special attention. The second book, with a cover that shimmered as though reflecting an unseen light, detailed a very eccentric art of disrupting the magic surrounding the user for a brief period.
"This was developed by a Greek wizard attempting to navigate through the magically poisonous mists of the Fabled Thessaly Woods," Slughorn explained, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and caution.
"Read through these books and give me an answer by the end of next week," Slughorn instructed.
Holding the books, Snape sensed the significance of the task ahead. 'This could open up new paths,' he thought, considering the implications and opportunities that lay within the pages.
Slughorn continued, "I understand I'm asking a lot from you, Severus. But this could significantly alleviate some of the financial burden if you decide to pursue alchemy." He then produced a letter from his robes, handed it to Snape.
"Clarissa Fawley, a recent success in the field, was kind enough to share some pointers for the exam. I've pulled in a few favors to get this for you," Slughorn added, his tone indicating the lengths he'd gone to in supporting Severus's ambitions.
Snape accepted the letter, his mind swirling with thoughts. 'A delicate potion requiring two potioneers, an art of magical disruption, and advice from an alchemy graduate. Slughorn is entrusting me with secrets that could shape my future,' he reflected. The realization that Slughorn was not only offering him a path to pursue his studies in alchemy but also entrusting him with a task of considerable secrecy and importance was not lost on him.
'This is more than just a test of my potion-making skills. It's a test of trust, of my ability to navigate the complexities of magic beyond the standard curriculum,' Snape thought, a sense of determination settling over him.
He looked at Slughorn, a newfound respect and gratitude evident in his gaze. "I'll give you my answer by the end of next week, Professor. Thank you," he said, his voice carrying a weight of solemnity and promise.
As he left Slughorn's office, clutching the books and letter closely, Severus Snape felt the future opening before him, challenging yet full of potential. The path was not going to be easy, but for the first time, it seemed wholly within his grasp.
Buy me a Cofee: https://ko-fi.com/saffronknight