Harry and Hermione were cuddled up in front of the fireplace in the Common Room after dinner, as they waited for Professor McGonagall. They had just finished up packing their belongings, which were now in the Undetectable Extension Bag Harry had purchased earlier that afternoon, for easy transport. It was strange to think that this would be their last time in the Gryffindor Common Room, at least as residents.
But they had discussed it and decided it was necessary. Mostly it was so they would be able to avoid Ron easier during the next four years, but there were several other reasons as well. When Harry's three Betrothed joined them, it would be the best way to get to know the girls – they were going to be a permanent fixture in each other's lives in the future after all. Also, the privacy would give Harry and Hermione a chance to focus on advanced studies. Once class resumed next term, the two time-travelers would be dealing with things they had already learned once before. Advanced studies would remedy the boredom. Also they could focus on changing the future for the better.
Both Dumbledore and Snape were not in attendance during dinner, and it was noticeable to all. However, none of the Professors gave any indication to their absence. This meant that it was either unimportant, or the staff didn't want to make it seem as important as it might have been. Both Harry and Hermione idly wondered if their absence had something to do with Madam Bones' visit. Sure, Harry and Hermione had seen the Headmaster that afternoon, but both didn't feel that the meeting was cause for the Headmaster's absence from dinner. Dumbledore never missed dinner with the students, unless he was away from the school. So maybe that was why he had been absent.
"Attention everyone, may I have your attention please?" McGonagall's voice rang out, over the buzzing of student conversation; everyone went silent and turned to McGonagall, where she stood near the portrait hole."There will be an important announcement tomorrow morning at breakfast during the eight-o-clock hour. While attendance isn't mandatory, I am sure it is an announcement you will want to hear. Mr. Potter, Miss Granger? Please come with me."
Harry and Hermione stood, then followed McGonagall out through the portrait hole.
"I do not know how you were able to convince the Headmaster to place you in the private Lord's Quarters," McGonagall said, as the three walked through the seventh floor corridors, "But he seemed quite eager to give you permission. I was rather perplexed that the Headmaster gave permission to both of you, until he informed me that you, Mr. Potter, recently named Miss Granger as a Vassal of House Potter."
"Yes, ma'am, that is correct," Harry said.
"The Headmaster also explained to me that Hermione may not be the only guest in the Lord's Quarters?" McGonagall asked. "However, he could not tell me who those other guests would be."
"Because we chose not to tell him," Hermione said, "To Harry, Professor Dumbledore is nothing more than the Headmaster of the school he attends. He doesn't need to know that Harry is betrothed to three girls."
"So you will be inviting your three Betrothed to join you in the Lord's Quarters, Mr. Potter?" McGonagall asked.
"Susan Bones, Daphne Greengrass, and Luna Lovegood," Harry said, "As well as Daphne's friend, Tracy Davis. The reason for the latter is quite personal to Tracy, and we have no wish to reveal such things. Since this is the last week of term, I doubt we will be inviting the girls to the Lord's Quarters until next term begins."
"I see," McGonagall said, "Mr. Potter, Miss Granger, as I said, I was rather perplexed that the Headmaster gave you permission. Be that as it may, this is a privilege to reside in the Lord's Quarters. I remember what it was like to be a teenager. I know what can happen when a teenage boy, and five teenage girls live together in one area. I expect you to be on your best behavior whilst living in the Lord's Quarters, or such privileges will be revoked and you will return to your dormitories."
"We promise, ma'am," Hermione said; Harry nodded in agreement.
"Good," McGonagall said, "Mr. Potter, even though Miss Granger is underage, she is your Vassal. School and Magical law states that she does not need permission from her parents to join you in the Lord's Quarters. But I will expect permission from the parents and guardians of the other ladies before they take up residence in the Lord's Quarters. Whether you wish to speak to them yourselves, or leave it to me, is your choice."
"I think I will speak to them myself," Harry said.
"Very well," McGonagall said.
As they made their way onto the fourth floor of the castle, McGonagall began discussing the residential Quarters.
"The fourth floor is where the Lord, Lady and Guest Quarters are located," she explained, "Due to the lack of classrooms on this floor, you'll find that mostly this floor is never tread upon, unless by curious students wishing to explore the castle. However, that will change next year. Whilst I have no wish to ruin the surprise for the two of you, I will say this: next year we will be hosting an event in which there will be several guests coming to stay for a long period of time. So this floor will be crowded next year by many. However, the Lord and Lady Quarters are on the opposite end of the level, far from the Guest Quarters, so I doubt there will be too much interference.
"The residential Quarters are some of the more magical rooms in the castle. The two of you and your future guests will be able to live comfortably. The Lord's Quarters you are going to reside in can hold up to a dozen rooms in one compact area. For now, there will be the main Common Room, two bedrooms and two bathrooms. But as you bring in your guests, you can request more bedrooms, and they will – to use a crude explanation – pop into existence."
"So... sort of like the Room of Requirement?" Harry asked.
"I should have known the two of you had discovered that room in your time here," McGonagall said, with a smile, "It is one of Hogwarts' better kept secrets. I am not even sure the Headmaster knows exactly what it does. He once spoke to me about finding a bathroom on the seventh floor he had never seen before. When he told me he needed to use a bathroom badly, I realized exactly what room he spoke of."
"It is quite the amazing room," Hermione said.
Soon McGonagall and the two teens arrived at a large portrait. Harry was rather amused that the portrait was of a long-haired Rapunzel in her towering prison. Only the top of the tower and the window were in the portrait, showing Rapunzel and her residence inside.
"This portrait is rather different than most of those here in the castle," McGonagall said, "You'll see why. Ah... Rapunzel?"
"What?!" Rapunzel yelled, "I can barely hear you. You need to yell over the wind!"
Hermione snickered and Harry rolled his eyes. Apparently you had to yell to talk to the portrait. Even though Harry nor Hermione could hear the wind, it seemed there was a lot in the portrait.
McGonagall cleared her throat and said loudly. "Rapunzel, these students have been given permission to reside in the residence beyond your portrait."
"Wonderful!" Rapunzel yelled, "I get so lonely up here! How many bedrooms are required at the moment?"
"Two," McGonagall said, loudly, "Though that may change in the future."
"Er... does this portrait require a password?" Harry asked, "Rather risky to yell out the password..."
"What did the handsome boy say?!" Rapunzel asked.
"Don't fear, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, "Once you reach this area, silencing charms are activated for privacy. What will the password be?"
"Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair!" Hermione said, loudly.
Rapunzel rolled her eyes, then yelled. "Very original, Miss! You may enter!"
The portrait swung open, revealing the doorway beyond. McGonagall led Harry and Hermione into the Lord's Quarters. The Common Room was a bit similar to the Gryffindor Common Room. It was built as a perfect circle. On the right side of the room was a sitting area near a cozy-looking fireplace. Harry could immediately picture romantic evenings, cuddling up on the couch with Hermione. On the left side was a study area, with a few tables, chairs and a bookcase; oddly enough, there was only one book on the shelf. Built into the walls around the room were four doors.
"The two closest doors to us," McGonagall said, "are the boys' and girls' lavatories. Those on the other side of the room are two bedrooms. As more guests appear, more bedrooms will appear as well. Miss Granger, you'll be pleased to know that the bookshelf is connected to the Hogwarts library. As you can see, there is only one book at the moment. This book is a list of all books in the Hogwarts library. Simply request a title and the book will appear. However, the books in the Restricted Section are not in this book, and must be checked out with permission from a Professor and Madam Pince. To return a book to the library, simply place it back on the bookshelf."
"I'm sure we'll get a lot of use out of that," Hermione said.
"I would expect so," McGonagall said, "I have a staff meeting to attend, so I will leave and let you get yourselves situated. Please be in attendance tomorrow morning in the eight-o-clock hour for breakfast. The announcement is quite important, but that is all I can say until then. Good evening."
She turned and walked out of the room. Harry and Hermione glanced at each other.
"Strange," Harry said, "She made no mention of whether or not we were allowed in each other's bedrooms. Either we're actually welcome into each other's rooms, or she forgot to tell us."
"I think she might have forgotten," Hermione said, "She seemed awfully distracted. Did you notice she never said Dumbledore's name once? She only referred to him as 'the Headmaster'."
"I did notice," Harry said, "That was quite strange. Wonder if it has anything to do with the announcement, or Dumbledore's and Snape's absence from dinner."
"Probably," Hermione said.
"So... should we assume we have permission to enter each other's bedroom until she says otherwise?" Harry asked.
Hermione raised an eyebrow. "And just what would you do whilst in my bedroom, Lord Potter?"
Harry blushed profusely. "Practice Occlumency?"
"Oh," Hermione said, "I thought you meant snog, cuddle and sleep together. I – er – mean sleeping obviously."
Harry stammered. "Maybe not right now."
"I completely agree," Hermione said, "Besides, the sitting room over there looks quite comfortable and romantic for snogging and cuddling up together. Shall we unpack and see exactly how comfortable?"
"Thought you'd never ask," Harry said, grinning.
Ten minutes after she left Harry and Hermione in their new Quarters, Minerva McGonagall walked into the staff room on the second floor. Every staff member were in attendance aside from Dumbledore, Madam Hooch and Argus Filch. The rest of the staff were seated at the long table.
"Thank you for your attendance," Minerva said, as she took a seat at the end of the table, "Since everyone is here, we can begin."
"Where are Albus and Severus?" Pomona Sprout asked, "I thought they would be here."
"I did not invite Albus to the meeting," Minerva said, "Simply because he will be the subject of much of our discussion. Severus Snape resigned from his post as of this afternoon."
There were several gasps of shock around the table.
"Why did Severus resign?" Filius Flitwick asked.
"I think we are all aware of his unfortunate past," Minerva said, "Madam Amelia Bones arrested him this afternoon. He willingly agreed to go with her, and resigned from his post."
"But I thought Severus was under Professor Dumbledore's protection?" Rubeus Hagrid asked.
"All will be explained, Hagrid," Minerva said. "Where to begin? Ah, I'll begin with some news regarding a couple of the students. As many of you are aware, earlier this term, Hermione Granger dropped out of Divination -"
"I hope you do not blame that on me!" Sybil Trelawney said, "She does not understand the subject of Divination. I was looking forward to having her in my class, given that she was known as the brightest witch of her age. I was quite disappointed in her."
"I do not believe the fault can be placed on her shoulders nor yours, Sybil," Minerva said, "Miss Granger simply thinks outside the box. She also has decided to drop out of Muggle Studies."
"How unfortunate!" Charity Burbage said, "She was a favorite student of mine! Did she give a reason?"
"She does not approve of the curriculum set by the Ministry of Magic," Minerva said. "I explained to her why you simply cannot teach more modern-era topics, but she still decided to drop the subject. Also, Harry Potter has decided to drop out of Divination as well."
"But... why?!" Sybil asked, dramatically.
"He says you predict his death once a week, Sybil," Minerva said.
"I cannot help if it he has a tragic destiny about him!" Sybil said. "You should hear those mules in the Forbidden Forest talk. They think he is going to die in there!"
"He was lucky to survive a couple years ago," Hagrid said, "I made the mistake of letting him go off on his own with Draco Malfoy. He was nearly killed by Quirrel and I should have been there with him. And I don't want to hear nothin' bad bout the Centaurs, Sybil. Firenze saved Harry's life, he did!"
"It was not your fault, Hagrid," Minerva said, "I should have never let Argus Filch decide what type of detention to give those kids. Sending first years off into the Forbidden Forest... what was he thinking? I am now really understanding what Madam Bones meant earlier this afternoon. I'll get to that soon enough. Bathsheba, Septima, Mr. Potter has decided to attend your classes starting next year. Miss Granger will be assisting him this summer when it comes to your subjects, and both promise me that Mr. Potter will pass his exams at the start of term and be able to join his fellow fourth years."
"With Miss Granger helping him," Babbling said, "Who can doubt the boy?"
"I'll be happy to have him in my class," Vector said.
"Excellent," Minerva said, "Now, for the reason behind this meeting. Fellow staff of Hogwarts, earlier this afternoon, Madam Amelia Bones met with myself, Albus and Severus. Before the end of the meeting, Madam Bones called us all incompetent."
There were murmurs and bursts of outrage from the staff. McGonagall raised her hands to silence the staff.
"Whilst her words her somewhat rude," Minerva said, "She speaks the truth. Last year, during the Chamber of Secrets incident, we all made some very grave mistakes. Who here has knowledge in Magical Creatures of all types?"
Hagrid raised a large hand immediately. Minerva, Filius, and a few other Professors did as well.
"Then why did it take a thirteen year old second-year student to discover that the creature behind the attacks was a Basilisk?" Minerva asked, "Students, a ghost, and Filch's cat were Petrified. Roosters were killed off by the culprit behind the attack, and the spiders were fleeing the forest. The Chamber of Secrets is known as Salazar Slytherin's creation – his favorite animals were serpents. Giving all that, how were we unable to discover the identity of the creature?"
"Now that ya mention it," Hagrid said, "I can honestly say I don't know how I didn't see it before."
"We were all undoubtedly foolish," Filius said. "And I can understand why Madam Bones finds us incompetent."
"There is something else Madam Bones mentioned," Minerva said, "If we had contacted her after Mrs. Norris was found Petrified, I believe we could have solved the mystery immediately. Aurors would have been called here, Unspeakables would have discovered the creature's identity, and roosters would have been brought in to crow if there were any signs of movement."
"It does seem like the proper way to handle the situation," Aurora Sinistra said, "So why did Albus not make it so?"
"I cannot say," Minerva said, "But it wasn't the first mistake he made in recent years. Hagrid, Filius, Pomona, I am sure you all recall the meeting in the summer of 1991 where Albus asked us to prepare some defenses for the third floor corridor. He told us they would guard a priceless artifact. None of us questioned this. None of us asked why a school full of children was being used as a place to hold such a priceless artifact."
Several Professors looked quite ashamed.
"None of us seemed to do a good job of putting together enchantments and defenses," Minerva continued, "Three first year students were able to get past our defenses. They shouldn't have been able to get through the initial door at all! Apparently it was opened with a Basic Unlocking Charm! Then there was the fact that the location was announced at the Welcoming Feast! Madam Bones said it best... when Albus announced that the third floor corridor was forbidden, he basically gave an open invitation for curious students to take a peek! If he wanted to keep a secret, he should not have announced the news to the whole castle!"
"So... why did he?" Poppy Pomfrey asked.
"Madam Bones basically accused Albus of luring Harry Potter to the forbidden third corridor," Minerva said, "Because Albus rewarded Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley for getting past the enchantments, Amelia said that Albus was encouraging Harry when he should have reprimanded him. She said that Albus was training Harry for something."
"Why would she accuse Professor Dumbledore of doing that?" Hagrid asked, "He'd never do something like that!"
"It wasn't her only accusation," Minerva said. "She accused of endangering all the students in one go, and I agree with this one. Remember Halloween of '91, when Professor Quirrel ran into the Great Hall screaming about a troll in the dungeon? He sent the students to their Common Rooms..."
"Merlin!" Sprout gasped, "My badgers and the Slytherins might have encountered the troll if it really had been there! Their Common Rooms are in the dungeons!"
"They should have remained in the Great Hall!" Flitwick said, "That troll could have been anywhere!"
"Indeed," Minerva said. "And that wasn't the last of Madam Bones' accusations. And this one was proven by Albus himself. As all of you were aware, in September, Albus and I gave permission to Hermione Granger to use a Time Turner in order to take all subjects open to her."
"I understand the Unspeakables gave you permission to allow that," Filius said.
"Indeed," Minerva said, "Albus and I gave her strict guidelines. She could only use the Time Turner for classes, never in the extracurricular sense. A few evenings ago, Albus went too far when it came to giving Miss Granger permission. He asked Miss Granger and Mr. Potter to go back in time, in order to save Sirius Black from his fate, as well as Buckbeak the Hippogriff."
Hagrid gasped. "Harry and Hermione saved Buckbeak?"
"Indeed they did," Minerva said.
"Albus gave an illegal, impossible task to two third-year students?" Filius asked, "But... why?"
"I am as perplexed as you are," Minerva said. "Amelia wanted to arrest Albus due to this. However, as you know, Hogwarts is a sovereign nation, and Amelia needed permission from Minister Fudge to arrest him. Severus was arrested, because he chose to willingly go with Amelia. Amelia said that the moment Albus walks off Hogwarts grounds, he is a wanted man. The truth is... I don't think Albus has any intention of leaving Hogwarts at all."
The staff had different emotions on their faces, including shock, sadness and anger.
"I nearly resigned from my post today," Minerva said, "But I came to a realization. I need to be here to protect the students. My eyes were truly opened today. Amelia Bones described us all as incompetent. I truly believe Albus Dumbledore is an incompetent Headmaster. But I don't think it will be an easy task to remove the man from his post as Headmaster. He does not give in easily. He wouldn't leave this castle, knowing that he may be arrested if doing so."
"I don't think Cornelius Fudge is going to give permission to Madam Bones to arrest Albus any time soon, Minerva," Cuthbert Binns said, "We all know that the Triwizard Tournament is being held here next school year. Such an event hasn't happened in a very long time. If Albus was arrested, can you imagine the media backlash? The ICW would move the Tournament to Beauxbatons or Durmstrang. Hogwarts may not even take part in the Tournament if that happened. The ICW would replace us with Salem Witches Institute or another school!"
"Cornelius Fudge would keep Albus in his position if it meant that the Triwizard Tournament would take place in Britain," Filius said, sighing. "From a Ministry standpoint, the tournament means big news for the British wizarding society. I expect we'll be hearing soon from Madam Bones, informing us that the charges against Albus have been dropped."
"I believe so as well," Minerva said, "With that said, does anyone wish to announce their resignation?" Nobody spoke up. Minerva smiled. "Thank you all. We need to be here for the students. Tomorrow morning at breakfast, we will announce Severus' resignation. Aurora, would you take over as Head of Slytherin?"
"I'd be honored, Minerva," Aurora said.
"Excellent," Minerva said. "One last announcement. Harry Potter recently obtained his Lordship as Head of his House. He also has chosen to make Hermione Granger a Vassal. They are now residing in one of the Lord's Quarters. Mr. Potter has also mentioned that he will be inviting a few other students to join him in his new Quarters next term, for different reasons that I have no wish to speak of this evening. Mr. Potter promises he will get permission from these students' parents or guardians this summer. Once the students are given permission, I will reveal their identities. Is there any questions, comments or concerns regarding this, any of the topics tonight, or anything else?"
"What do we tell the students about Albus?" Poppy asked.
"Nothing," Minerva said, "Word would get out to their parents, and we'd have to deal with the aftermath. If Minister Fudge pardons Albus, and we say something different to the students, it would create a lot of backlash. For now we will remain silent, especially toward Albus. We don't need to cause drama that may simply come back to bite us in the end. Any more questions? No? Very well. I think that will conclude the evening's meeting. Thank you for your attendance."
The following morning, Harry awoke with a smile as he stared at the ceiling of his new bedroom. The bed was quite comfortable – more-so than the four-poster bed in the dormitories. It was also twice as large as the beds in the dormitories. Also, there was a distinct silence and peaceful serenity during his slumber. Whilst Neville, Seamus and Dean were never as loud as Ron when it came to snoring, they still snored a bit. So the silence was quite welcoming. The actual bedroom wasn't too special or out of the ordinary but there was a nice view of the lake outside the one window in the room.
A few minutes after he woke, he walked out of his bedroom, dressed in comfortable, casual weekend wear. Hermione was sitting on the couch, reading the book on Lords, Ladies and Houses she had also been reading the previous day. She smiled as she turned to him.
"Finally!" she said, "It is nearly eight-o-clock! I was about to wake you up. We need to be in the Great Hall for Professor McGonagall's announcement soon."
"Mandatory attendance on a Sunday should be illegal," Harry said, walking across the room, "I would have liked to sleep in a bit longer. My bed is so comfortable."
"So is mine," Hermione said, "It was an excellent idea to move in here. You should try the shower in your bathroom. If it is as good as mine, you might lose yourself in there for an hour."
"Well, according to you, we don't have an hour to lose," Harry said, "So I will test the shower later today."
"Probably a good idea," Hermione said, "Keeper Ragnok and his team of Goblins will be here today to harvest the Basilisk."
Harry nodded. "Right. Almost forgot about that. Thanks for reminding me."
He leaned toward her and kissed her softly. Hermione murmured against his lips.
"What was that, love?" Harry said, backing away briefly, "Didn't catch that."
"I said we really need to go to the Great Hall," Hermione said.
"In a moment," Harry said, "I'm not finished."
Hermione squeaked as Harry pulled her to her feet, then she chuckled against his lips when he pressed them back on hers. She murmured contentedly, then returned the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"I love you, Harry," Hermione said, softly, as she backed away.
"I love you too," Harry said, then took one of her hands from around his neck and grasped it in his, "Shall we?"
Hermione nodded and the pair left the comfortable privacy of the Lord's Quarters. Ten minutes later, as they made their way into the Great Hall, they noticed it was quite full of students. There were queues of students at the end of each of the House Tables.
"Today's editions of the Daily Prophet are complimentary," Professor McGonagall said, as she handed out editions of the newspaper to Gryffindors. "All questions can wait until I make my announcement in a few minutes."
Harry and Hermione each took a copy of the newspaper, then sat down in their usual spot at the Gryffindor Table. There were two large articles on the front page that immediately caught Harry's eye. The first had a large picture of Sirius Black and his parents at James and Lily's wedding. Harry immediately began to read the article.
MINISTER OF MAGIC FUDGE GRANTS SIRIUS BLACK
TRIAL; DEMENTORS SENT BACK TO AZKABAN!
In a controversial decision made on Saturday, Minister
of Magic Cornelius Fudge has granted Sirius Black a
trial to take place in front of the Wizengamot two
weeks from Saturday.
Sirius Black was sentenced to Azkaban twelve-and-a-
half years ago for betraying James and Lily Potter, and
for the murders of Peter Pettigrew and twelve Muggles.
He escaped Azkaban – the first person ever to do so –
this previous summer and has been a fugitive ever since.
Minister Fudge had this to say Saturday afternoon:
"Evidence has been brought forward that questions the
guilt of Sirius Black. Evidence that was not presented
before Black was sentenced to Azkaban. I am offering
Sirius Black a temporary pardon, and I request that he
give himself over to the Ministry of Magic. I give a
Minister's guarantee that this is not a trick to capture Black.
The evidence brought forward is quite shocking and could
very well turn over the guilty verdict made twelve-and-half
years ago."
Minister Fudge did not specify exactly what the evidence was.
However, he also revealed the shocking information that Black
did not receive a trial before he was sentenced to Azkaban.
Fudge informed us that he had no part in the initial sentencing
so many years ago. He was quick to throw the blame to his
predecessor, Millicent Bagnold, as well as former DMLE Head
– and current Head of the Department for International Magical
Cooperation – Bartemius Crouch, Senior.
Minister Fudge has also stated that he ordered the Dementors
of Azkaban to be sent back to their post at the fortress prison.
Several Dementors had been stationed at Hogwarts School of
Witchcraft and Wizardry, as well as various magical locations
in Britain for the past several months. Until yesterday, Fudge
had given the Dementors the order to administer the Kiss on
sight to Sirius Black.
Whatever evidence was found concerning Sirius Black seems to
be quite compelling. Could Sirius Black actually be an innocent
man? Was an innocent man a prisoner in Azkaban all these years?
We will all find out in two weeks after Sirius Black faces the entire
Wizengamot in a criminal trial.
Bartemius Crouch was unavailable for comment.
Harry grinned when he finished the first article.
"Well, I guess I don't need to inform Sirius about a pending trial," Harry said, "Madam Bones came through with her promise."
"You should still write to him, Harry," Hermione said, "You did promise after all."
"Right," Harry said, "I'll write a letter later today."
He then looked at the second article. The picture below the large bold headline was of Severus Snape being escorted through the crowded Atrium of the Ministry. His wrists were bound, and his face held no emotion. He was being escorted by Amelia Bones, Kingsley Shacklebolt and John Dawlish. Harry began to read the article.
SEVERUS SNAPE ARRESTED AFTER WILLINGLY
GIVING SELF UP; RESIGNS FROM LONG-TIME
POSITION OF POTIONS MASTER AT HOGWARTS
The numerous wizards and witches walking about the
Atrium of the Ministry of Magic Saturday afternoon were
witness to a shocking scene (depicted above). Long time
Potions Master Severus Snape was escorted through the
Atrium by Madam Amelia Bones, Head of the Department
of Magical Law Enforcements and two Aurors, Kingsley
Shacklebolt and John Dawlish.
Hours after this scene, Madam Amelia Bones had this to say:
"Severus Snape willingly gave himself to DMLE custody
whilst at Hogwarts [Saturday afternoon]. He immediately
gave his resignation to Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and
left the castle in my custody. After a lengthy interrogation,
in which he gave up some key information in return for leniency,
Mr. Snape was sentenced to five years in Azkaban, as was the
agreement made by Minister Fudge."
Severus Snape was one of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named's top
Death Eaters during the Great War. Following the Great War,
Albus Dumbledore defended Snape, saying that Snape had
redeemed himself, shortly before the Hogwarts Headmaster
assigned him as the Potions Master. Though Dumbledore has
repeatedly defended Snape multiple times in the past years,
many questioned the Headmaster's decision to allow a well
known – and apparently redeemed? – Death Eater to teach
the children of the wizarding world.
Over the years, several of Snape's former students have
expressed a dislike for the former Potions Master, and have even
accused the man of being the reason for the lack of new Aurors,
Healers and other key career positions. After all, a NEWT in
Potions is required to be considered for most of these careers.
Madam Amelia Bones made no comment of what information
Severus Snape revealed, but whatever it was, it was enough to
grant a light sentencing for some major crimes. It will be interesting
in the future to find out what happens in the aftermath of the
interrogation.
Albus Dumbledore and other former co-workers of Severus Snape
were unavailable for comment.
Harry was quite shocked about this news. He knew Madam Bones had gone to Hogwarts to speak to Dumbledore and Snape, but he never expected her to walk away with one of the men in custody! And the fact that Snape apparently willingly gave himself up? That shocked him the most. He would never think Snape would do something like that. Why had Snape given himself up so willingly? What was there for the former Slytherin to gain from this?
Harry wondered how Dumbledore felt about this. After all, he had just lost the one available spy he had in the Death Eater ranks. He gazed up toward the Head Table in search for Dumbledore, but the Headmaster was not at his usual throne. Perhaps the Headmaster was attempting to reverse the sentencing?
Harry also wondered exactly what information Snape had given up. Did he reveal the identities of the Death Eaters? If so, did that mean Amelia, the Aurors, and the DMLE were on the prowl? How would this interfere with his plans to take down the Death Eaters this summer? Worse, what if the article made the Death Eaters more paranoid? It would make them harder to take down. Harry grimaced. This would take some thought.
Harry was not the only shocked person in the room. The Great Hall was filled with the buzzing of murmurs and whispers. Many had expressions of shock on their faces. Several at the Slytherin table, including Draco Malfoy and his usual crew looked angry. Daphne Greengrass had no expression on her face. Perhaps she was hiding her reaction in case it would get her in trouble with her housemates?
Three sharp dings made Harry's head turn toward the staff table, and he wasn't the only one. Nearly all students were looking toward Professor McGonagall who had just stood up from her chair after tapping her spoon against her glass.
"I had hoped I would be the one to give you this news," McGonagall said, "I should have realized it would be in the Daily Prophet today. Everything you read about Severus Snape is true. He did resign from his post as Potions Master yesterday afternoon. He did willingly give himself up to Amelia Bones. I was present for the entire event."
There were more murmurs and mutterings. There were also a few whoops of joy from students who did not like Snape at all. McGonagall shot sparks from her wand, getting everyone's attention and silence.
"I promise that by September, there will be a new Potions Master in Hogwarts," McGonagall said. "Astronomy Professor, Aurora Sinistra has accepted the role of Head of Slytherin House."
Several Slytherins clapped loudly, as did many other students. Draco and a few others simply looked angry. Apparently they realized that Sinistra wasn't Snape – she wouldn't let the Slytherins get away with things Snape did.
"To the Slytherin House," McGonagall said, turning toward the Slytherin table, "I know you are upset at this news. But it does not condone any violent reactions. There will be no excuse for violence caused due to this. If you need someone to talk to about this, any one of the staff would be welcome to assist you. That goes for all of you."
"Was Snape a Death Eater all this time or was he really redeemed?" a Gryffindor sixth year asked.
"Headmaster Dumbledore has stood by Mr. Snape all these years," McGonagall said, "Whether that answers your question is up to you, and the rest of you as well. Mr. Snape apparently decided he needed to atone for his past mistakes, so he gave himself up to Ministry custody. As a Gryffindor, I think that is real bravery in and of itself."
Harry and Hermione started to clap, and while a few Gryffindors looked at them oddly, others started clapping as well, as did several other students. McGonagall smiled in Harry and Hermione's direction then sat down allowing the students to get back to their meals.
A few minutes later, Mr. Filch walked into the Great Hall, and strode down the aisle toward the Head Table. He spoke softly to Professor McGonagall, who stood up. She left the table, then walked across the Hall and over to Harry and Hermione.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger," she said, "If you would come with me, please."
Harry and Hermione glanced at each other shrugged, then stood up. They followed McGonagall out of the Great Hall. When they arrived in the Entrance Hall, they found Madam Amelia Bones standing nearby. Nymphadora Tonks was standing next to her.
"Lord Potter, Miss Granger," Amelia said, "This is Senior Cadet Auror Nymphadora Tonks."
"Wotcher!" Tonks said, "Call me Dora or Tonks. Either is fine with me. Don't like my first name much."
"Cadet Tonks has been given special assignment," Amelia said, "She is to be your personal guard for the foreseeable future. At first, it was merely for you, Lord Potter. But I decided it was probably best if she looked after both of you."
"Er... why?" Harry asked.
"I have reason to believe the two of you may be at risk," Amelia said, "I have no wish to scare you. This is mostly a precaution. Cadet Tonks will explain it in full soon enough."
"Well – er – it is nice to meet you, Tonks," Harry said, and Hermione echoed him.
"I've seen the two of you from a distance during my final year here," Tonks said, "You were just in your first year. Buit I originally met you, Harry, on the day you were born. Your parents were good friends of my own, and I suppose they were considered my friends as well, even though I was five or six years old. Your parents used to babysit me when I was young."
Harry's eyes widened. He did not know that. Why had she never told him that?
"So... I guess you have good stories about my parents?" Harry asked.
"And you as a little baby too," Tonks said, "A few of them. We'll have loads of fun, I think."
"Well, this is most certainly unexpected," a familiar voice said.
Harry looked over his shoulder. Albus Dumbledore was walking down the stairs toward the Hall.
"Madam Bones, a pleasure to see you again," he said, "Miss Tonks, how wonderful to see a former student return."
"Cadet Tonks has been assigned as Harry and Hermione's personal guard, Dumbledore," Amelia said.
"On whose authority?" Albus asked.
"My own," Amelia said, "You'll find there is no law against that – so don't pull that sovereign nation bull on me. I have reason to believe that Harry and Hermione are in possible danger, and whilst it isn't serious enough to move them somewhere secure, I believe that they could do with a guard. Cadet Tonks has agreed to spend her last year of training in the field."
"I am under the impression that Senior Cadets experience important training," Albus said, "Are you willing to give up such experience in order to guard a couple of students, Cadet Tonks?"
"Yes, sir," Tonks said, "I believe I have learned enough to get the job done. Besides, older Aurors cannot give Harry and Hermione what I can."
"And what is that?" Albus asked.
"Friendship and companionship," Tonks said, "As a recent student, and someone who was once close to Harry and his parents many years ago, I think he will enjoy my company. Besides, my skills can be highly useful if need be."
Her body morphed and shrunk so now she appeared to be a thirteen or fourteen year old witch.
"I could appear to be a simple friend of theirs," she said, "just hanging about with them."
"I think that is a swell idea," Amelia said, "Next year, Cadet Tonks will join Harry and Hermione undercover as a fellow fourth-year student. She'll be an exchange student. We'll work out the details later, Dumbledore."
"Of course," Albus said. "Do you have another reason to be here other than to escort Cadet Tonks to the castle?"
"If you're asking whether or not I am here to place you under arrest," Amelia said, "The unfortunate answer is no. Minister Fudge has given you a pardon until the end of next June. Apparently he feels you are needed here next year. After that... well, we'll see what happens."
"Indeed we will," Albus said.
Harry and Hermione glanced at each other. It seemed that Amelia had wanted to arrest Dumbledore as well as Snape, but Minister Fudge wouldn't allow it. Suddenly, the entrance doors opened and Hagrid stepped through.
"Oh, Professor Dumbledore," Hagrid said, "I was just about to come see you. A few Goblins from Gringotts are here. They're making their way up to the castle as we speak. They chose to walk instead of use the carriages. Apparently they don't like Thestrals and carriages. Who knew?"
"Goblins?" Albus asked, "Why are they all the way out here? Never mind, I'll find out myself."
"That's just it, sir," Hagrid said, "The lead Goblin, his name is Ragnok, I think. He said he is here to see Harry and Hermione, not you, sir. Something about the Chamber of Secrets?"
Harry turned to Dumbledore, and nearly laughed out loud. The expression on the old man's face was priceless!