On the train to Hogwarts, Dazai talked Snape's ear off about potions. It kept the professor from asking unwanted questions or from staring too long in that contemplative silence Dazai really wasn't liking. The only stares he received this way were ones of stupefaction.

When the train finally rolled into its final destination, Snape blinkingly said, "You're actually reading that book? You understand it?"

His eyes narrowed on the hard-won textbook in Dazai 's lap. Sitting atop it was his

'World 's Okayest Professor '

mug and a deck of cards. Also in Dazai 's lap was a worn pair of too-large pajamas. They were Snape 's, but the professor had told him to keep them.

'I 'm not doing your laundry, '

Snape had told him pointedly,

'Save me the trouble and take those with you. '