Detentions with Umbridge are breaking Harry down, and Severus Snape has had enough. From the staff table he watches Dumbledore avoid Harry, students whisper “liar,” and only Neville and Luna stay solidly at Harry’s side. Angelina calls Quidditch practice, Ron eyes the Keeper spot, and bitterness finally pushes Harry to quit the team entirely. After another brutal evening in Umbridge’s office, Harry runs straight to the dungeons and quietly shows Snape the words carved into his hand: I must not tell lies. Snape treats the blood quill damage with Murtlap and potions, hears how Umbridge’s touch flared Harry’s scar, and starts planning cold, Slytherin revenge. Harry leaves with detentions that double as protection and the clearest proof yet that someone is firmly in his corner.
