[a/n-1]From SoHDD#95: I enjoyed the reviews here, particularly of Neville's reactions. They were so evenly split.
[a/n0]From SoHDD#132: Got the idea from internet news pages. You get to read a bit of an article for free, but the whole thing only if you're a subscriber.
Harry Does Different CCCDXIII
Snape for DADA
"I am pleased to announce the return of formerly retired …Professor Horace Slughorn… he served for many years as Potions Master and Head of Slytherin for many years." Headmaster Dumbledore announced, clearly delighted "Slytherins, Professor Slughorn is also returning as your Head of House."
This was disconcerting to members of the green and silver, whereas the other Houses were largely approving of the change. One voice, carefully anonymous, noted "Snape's demoted!"
"Ahem!" Dumbledore overrode the murmurings "The post of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher will be assumed by Professor Snape. In light of current events this subject has increased in importance, and I felt it necessary to ensure a more rigorous curriculum. Let me assure you Professor Snape has my full confidence."
Applause for Snape in his new role outside his native House was vey sparse. A notable exception was the foot stomping and table thumping performance of Harry Potter. His Housemates looked at him as if in betrayal. He ignored them, only stopping as the Slytherin response faded. Ron was the first to vocalize "Tha bloody hell mate. DADA is your favorite class. How can you cheer Snape teaching it?"
"You're not thinking long term." Harry was redfaced and breathing heavy "What happened to last year's Defense professor?"
To that Ron grinned "Taken into the forest by Bane and the herd." He ended with a wistful sigh.
"Year before that?" Harry pressed.
Dean answered "The fake Moody? Kissed."
"Five points to Gryffindor!" Harry joked "No fault of his own but Lupin had to quit when a certain someone 'accidentally' let it be known he has a little furry problem a few days a month. Lockhart?"
Ron again relived his memory "Blasted into a wall by his own Obliviate. Still have the wand on my dresser."
"Harry stop snickering." Hermione scolded "Not nice to enjoy someone's misfortune."
He shrugged her off and concluded, affecting a sad face "And as Dumbledore put it 'What happened between Quirrel and me is a complete secret, so of course, everyone knows. Not even a body to bury. No I have high hopes for this term."
"Do you indeed, Potter?" the very subject of discussion was glaring down at his nemesis' doppleganger "Do not think your purile display will garner you any favoritism in my classroom."
The picture of innocence, Harry looked up and replied "I wouldn't have it any other way, sir. Good luck this year, Professor."
