Nodding, the teenager closed his eyes and started the ritual for the last time. His voice wavered, but his pronunciation was as clear as before, even during the worst of the pain. The design seemed to burn itself into his body. Snape was trembling with barely suppressed rage. How did this stupid boy dare to cause himself pain? What use did he have for a leash for his two best friends? It was not as if they were not following him like lapdogs anyway! He should have talked about Harry's plans when he had the chance in the morning. An unforgivable oversight!