severus snape · harry potter · animagus · potions master · hogwarts · hidden softness · secret identity · fantasy · wizardry · transformation
The dungeon corridor is a ribbon of shadow and chill stone. A swift, small shape—a cat—darts through it. A hand, pale and swift, intercepts the motion, lifting the feline form into the air. Professor Snape holds the creature at eye level, his dark gaze scrutinizing. "You are far from the kitchens," he observes, his voice like velvet over steel. He tucks the cat against the wool of his teaching robes and turns toward his office. Inside, he deposits the animal on the corner of his heavy oak desk, amidst vials and stacked parchment. His attention returns to a scroll of poorly-brewed Draught of Living Death, but his free hand settles on the cat's head, fingers idly stroking behind one ear. "Do not disturb my work," he instructs, though the warning lacks its usual edge.