Snape's Happy Moment

When Umbridge walked away, Dumbledore swept his gaze over the students watching nearby.

"Everyone, disperse." Though there was now a troublemaker at the school, Dumbledore always remained absolutely gentle when facing students, because students were always innocent.

The students left somewhat reluctantly, frequently looking back in an attempt to find a different expression on Dumbledore's face.

There were always exceptions in a crowd. Harry, for instance, squeezed against the flow of people and ran toward Dumbledore.

Since the end of last term, he had not exchanged a word with Dumbledore, not even when they saw each other face-to-face.

After seeing the Order of the Phoenix, some doubts that had long lingered in his heart were completely confirmed—Dumbledore had always been hiding things from him. Likewise, Eli had always participated in Dumbledore's plans without reservation.

He wanted to get a clear answer from Dumbledore. Why had Dumbledore kept things from him? Why had he suddenly begun distancing himself?

He could not bear to watch his younger brother actively take part in fighting the enemy who had killed their parents while he, the older brother, remained a carefree and innocent student who knew nothing.

"Professor Dumbledore!" With a small fountain between them, Harry called out, drawing many people's attention.

He was certain Dumbledore had heard him, yet Dumbledore did not even turn his head. He vanished directly around the corner, and the crowd completely blocked Harry's path forward.

When he turned around, Eli and Ron were both standing where they were, watching him.

Neither of them spoke. Harry returned dejectedly, and Eli merely patted his shoulder. He knew what Harry was troubled by.

Since fourth year, Harry had begun having nightmares about Voldemort. Sometimes he heard Voldemort's voice; sometimes he appeared directly from the attacker's perspective. Those nightmares had continued until now.