'Harry Potter' © 1997 to Joanne Kathleen Rowling, all rights reserved. Infringement of copyright acknowledged.
In memory of everyone killed in the U.S.A during the recent horrors.
Oderint, dum metuant
Chapter One
Professor Albus Dumbledore looked gravely down at his staff; each knew, or knew something, of the events of recent. Many were in shock; others were showing signs of strong disbelief.
"My friends, it pains me to tell you this," he began. "But we," he leaned forward, looking each man or woman directly in the eye. "We, have been betrayed." A sudden whispering filled the room, bouncing off the wooden walls. Dumbledore stood calmly, waiting for the whispering to subside. "Friends, we must now pull even closer together. Our security has been undermined, and the Auror's and myself will do our very best to find the man, or woman, who has betrayed us. The betrayer will be dealt with accordingly."
"What about Severus?" Someone asked.
"Severus, well, we still haven't had word from him. The Auror's are looking for him, we can only hope that he has not come to harm. It is possible, that he is lying low somewhere." Dumbledore looked tired, he looked old, but most of all, he looked worried.
"Albus, term starts again a few days, we can't possibly open the school, after what's happened." Professor Minerva McGonagall voiced the silent opinions of the staff. Her voice of reason was subdued.
"In this time of need, Hogwarts is to remain open. Hogwarts is many people's only chance and our only chance. This year will be more vital than any other year for the students, and the rest of the magical world. We have an opportunity to train young witches and wizards in our ancient arts and skills. Never has there been more a time when we have needed them. Hopefully, Voldemort will not take so many of our students into his ranks this time."
"But without Severus, the Slytherin's…"
"Minerva." Dumbledore's tone silenced her. "Severus will be back before the start of term, I have no doubt of that."
"If we don't know where he is, how can you be sure he will be back?!" Professor Sinistra called angrily.
"I have every faith in Severus' abilities. Sirius Black and Remus Lupin are also looking for him. They will find him, or Severus will return for hiding."
"Albus, we can't even be sure Severus is still alive."
"He is alive."