It was worse than rough. When Severus returned, it was by thestral coach an just as Sirius and James were heading up the stairs from the Quidditch pitch. "Oh, isn't he fancy," Sirius said, grinning from ear to ear, though James was a bit more subdued. "Enjoy your vacation, Snivellus?"

Even Sirius fell silent to see Severus's face once he lifted his head, however. Taking a step back, he let Severus go without question, watching him limp down the stairs to his own dorm.

"Bloody hell, Prongs, whacha make of that?"

James arched an eyebrow. "Doesn't concern us. Let's go clean up before dinner."