Living To Die
Disclaimer: I think everyone knows I don't own these characters
Chapter One: Reunions
Optimism echoed off the walls in the Room of Requirement. For the first time since the death of Dumbledore, the students of Hogwarts had found a reason to laugh. Harry Potter had come back to Hogwarts; the Light shall reign once more. The members of Dumbledore's Army gathered around Harry, Ron, and Hermione, waiting eagerly for the plan of attack. It was time to take Hogwarts back.
"Listen, there is a lot we have to do and little time to do it. There is something I need to find – and someone I need to see." As Harry spoke, Ron and Hermione gave him a puzzled stare.
"I think it's time I paid the dear new headmaster a visit," Harry growled softly, fire in his eyes. Hermione's eyebrows shot up in alarm.
"Harry! No! You can't! Dumbledore would have wanted you to focus on the task at hand. He-"
"He would have wanted to know why the man he trusted with his life betrayed him. So do I."
Hermione whispered her disproval fervently. "Harry, this is just too dangerous. He could kill you."
"To be honest, Hermione, I think I have gotten used to laying my life on the line. I know it's risky, but there is a time when a man has got to take responsibility for his actions. Tonight is Severus Snape's night."
Ron squared his shoulders in a sort of resigned determination. "Alright, mate, I'll go with you."
"No – I have to do this alone. You two, go and find the horcrux. We know it's got something to do with Ravenclaw, so ask any student from that house if they know of any important artifacts or something. It's …" Harry looked up and realized that they had completely forgotten about the inhabitants of the Room of Requirement, who were all staring at them thoroughly confused.
"Everyone, follow Ron and Hermione's lead. They know what to do," Harry gave them both a quick hug and a tentative smile.
"I'll meet up with you later."
Before logic was allowed a chance to enter Harry's brain, he hurried off towards the exit. One last look at his friends confirmed the feeling that had invaded Harry's heart. These were the only people he had ever been able to call family. His life was worth losing for the sake of theirs. With that final thought to accompany him on his mission, Harry flung his invisibility cloak over his shoulders and turned the doorknob. Back to business.