Disclaimer: It's JKR's world. I just play in it (with my own toys).

Brief Author's Note: This is the sequel to an overhauled version of Snake Charmer that currently exists only in my head. Ignore whatever disparities you find between the two. I'm working on it.

Also, criticism is absolutely welcome. I live for reviews.

Chapter One

"I didn't know where else to go. I know that the Order is not in the business of offering refuge to lapsed Death Eaters, but, nevertheless, I am here seeking shelter."

The headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry remained silent, waiting for the witch across his desk to resume speaking. She looked down at the cup of tea in her hands and pursed her lips. After a moment she inhaled deeply and raised her eyes to meet his gaze.

"Besides," she continued, her voice growing stronger, "you're in need of a librarian over the holidays; I am a librarian, and I am in need of a job. And, it's doubtful I need to remind you, you owe me a favor."

Albus Dumbledore allowed himself a wry half-smile, recalling the last time Pythia Carmody had come to him. Fifteen years ago she couldn't even force herself to make eye contact.

She didn't have anywhere else to go then, either.

Dumbledore pinched the bridge of his nose and adjusted his spectacles.

"Have you not answered Voldemort's call to his followers, then?"

She trembled at the question, the cup briefly rattling against the saucer before she steadied her hand and shook her head. "I have not."

"We live in extremely dangerous times, Pythia. Had you asked this favor over the last few years, before the Dark Lord's return, I would have had few qualms about giving it to you. But Voldemort has returned, and that complicates matters. I am afraid that granting this request now must come with a few conditions. I doubt you will like them."

She nodded and sipped at her tea longer than necessary, slowly draining the last few bitter drops. "I will concede to whatever conditions you must impose." She sighed heavily. "If that includes returning to the ranks, as it appears to, then so be it."

Dumbledore nodded. "Among other things."

"Whatever they are, I accept them." Pythia stood, setting her cup and saucer on the edge of the headmaster's desk. "Shall I have my things sent, then?"

He nodded again, his face grim. "I suppose so."

"Good," she replied. Straightening her robes, she started for the door. Halfway across the floor she paused and turned around. "You know that Professor Snape will protest this."

Dumbledore smiled. "Let me worry about Severus. Just worry about yourself for now. Good day, Pythia."

"Good day, Headmaster."

"Absolutely not."

The Potions Master paced fiercely in his dungeon classroom, black robes billowing behind him, while Dumbledore stood calmly between the rows of desks.

"The decision is already made, Severus. I have every confidence that she can be relied upon."

Snape choked out an angry laugh. "Oh, yes. She bears the Mark – clearly she keeps her promises."

Dumbledore raised an eyebrow, indicating the hypocrisy of his statement. Snape abruptly ended his movement and scowled.

"That is a different situation entirely. I reassigned my loyalties for a very specific purpose. I find fear an unacceptable motivation."

Dumbledore's face was stern. "Just as I have kept your reasons in confidence, so I have kept hers. If you would like to know what they are, I suggest you discuss them with her." His eyes softened. "Severus, I did not come for your blessing, only to inform you of the thing. Given your history together, I felt it was only appropriate."

Snape ran his fingers through the tangled mess of his hair, his eyes narrowing. "Exactly how much do you know of our history?"

"More than you do, I should wager." Dumbledore sighed and turned to leave. "Do try to be civil to her, Severus. It has been a trying year for all of us."

Snape's nostril's flared, and he opened his mouth to speak, but the headmaster was already gone.