Before the Board we Stand
Chapter Two

"Fudge, tell me the reason why you wish to sack Severus Snape." Dumbledore demanded. Fudge just stood nervously in front of him.
"Certain aspects of his character do not…" Fudge began.
"The real reason."
"His sexuality. There is a problem with all the kids about, the governors are worried that…"
"Severus would never stoop that low. You must be very sick minded if you believe he would seduce an innocent pupil."
"Albus, there are other reasons, but that is one of the main ones." Fudge finally managed a sentence without Dumbledore interrupting.
"For example."
"We shall discuss that further with the man concerned."
"Is there any chance that Severus could get his job back?" Fudge looked generally miffed now.
"He would have to take the matter to court, declare his sexuality and let a jury decided whether he should be allowed to continue in his job."
"When do you wish to discuss this?" Dumbledore asked.
"Next week."
"Next week! The new term starts that week!"
"I realise. Severus Snape is suspended, without pay until that date. Members past and present of the governors have been called to make a decision. I suggest you advise Snape to get a lawyer."
"He doesn't need a lawyer, he has got me." Dumbledore replied coldly. "I've defended him once, I can defend him again. Good evening." Dumbledore held the door open for Fudge to leave.
"Well, good day Albus." Fudge picked up his purple bowler hat and hurried from the room.

* * *
One Week Later at the Start of Term Banquet

"Welcome, welcome, welcome to yet another year of hard work at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I ask all prefects to make sure that the young first years be looked after properly.
"Now, the more sharp eyed among you will notice that we are missing our Potions master. No, he has not been sacked but is ill. He should be joining us if his health improves. Now! Let us all sing the school song! Everyone pick their favourite tune and off we go!" The entire school bellowed the words to the school song, each at his or her own pace.

* * *
Later that afternoon, at the Ministry of Magic Headquarters

"Severus, will you please relax!" Dumbledore grabbed the arm of the nervous young man in a desperate attempt to stop him pacing the floor.
"I can't help it. I'm really nervous." Snape was ringing his hands together.
"Please stop pacing. You're making me dizzy and your going to wear the carpet out." For the first time, that afternoon Snape smiled.
"Sorry." He apologised meekly.