The damp chill in the corridor grew heavier with every step down the stone stairs.
Sunlight never reached the cellar, and fine beads of water seeped from the stone walls on either side. With his Dragon Hide Bag slung over one shoulder, Gavin crossed the blackened flagstones to the end of the corridor and stopped outside the Potions office.
The door stood ajar, leaving a finger-width gap.
The mingled scent of dried wormwood and currant root drifted out, mixed with the earthy tang that had lingered in the basement for years.
Gavin raised a hand and knocked twice.
Knock, knock.
"Come in."
The voice inside was flat, low, and hoarse, with an unsettling chill.
He pushed the door open and entered.
A standard size-two pewter cauldron had already been set up on the workbench in the center of the office. Beside it lay a neatly arranged Copper Balance, Silver Dagger, stirring rod, and several unprocessed ingredients.
Snape sat behind his broad desk, holding a slender black quill.
The quill did not stop at the sound of footsteps.
He lifted his eyelids slightly, glanced at the old brass grandfather clock in the corner, then slowly turned toward Gavin, who stood by the door.
"Ten past eight."
Snape set down his quill and leaned back slightly in his chair, his eyes cold.
"It seems even the clocks at Hogwarts must wait for you, Mr. Gu."
Gavin closed the door behind him, his expression calm.
"Sorry, Professor. I was delayed on the way."
Despite his words, Gavin showed not the slightest hint of apology. He simply walked to the workbench and placed his bag on the stool by his feet.
Snape interlaced his fingers before his chest, his lips curling into a sneer.
"Must I hang a banner to welcome you before you