Chapter 3: Fountain of Knowledge and Wisdom
"The unexamined life is not worth living"
~ Socrates
The sun rose on a Tuesday morning, and the sixth-year Gryffindors and Slytherins were eager for their first Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson with Professor O'Malley. Just before Draco Malfoy left the Slytherin common room, though, Snape cornered him. "I want to know exactly what goes on in that classroom, Malfoy," Snape said quietly. "Someone ought to know whether or not O'Malley can live up to her status." Malfoy grinned at being given what he deemed an important job, and ran off to the lesson with his nose in the air. The Potions master scowled, doubting Malfoy would actually bring him any useful information. Snape knew very well O'Malley's teaching would be above standards, but he was curious all the same as to what would transpire there.
* * * * * * *
The students chattered noisily as they filed into their first Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson. Harry, Ron and Hermione took seats near the back, as usual, while Draco Malfoy took his place near the front. Harry and Ron immediately took notice. "Since when does he like to sit up front?" Ron said. Hermione shrugged her shoulders.
They didn't give Malfoy much notice for long. As everyone took there seats, many looked around and surveyed the new décor. The room was exceedingly plain, with nothing lining the stone walls. In fact the only evidence that a teacher was there were the blackboard and the objects on the desk, and the desk seemed nothing extraordinary. Several books were stacked off to the right side, next to a bowl covered by a black cloth. In the center of the desk sat a closed, worn briefcase.
Just when they least expected it Professor O'Malley walked in, silent as a shadow, announcing her presence as the door snapped shut. Several people flinched at the sound, as they had not expected her to enter with such stealth. Professor O'Malley raised an eyebrow at the reaction she received and smiled, advancing up to her desk without a single word. Harry suddenly understood why Malfoy was at the front: this was definitely one the most beautiful witches he had ever seen, and a Hogwarts professor no less. Even in plain black work robes, she seemed to have an unsurpassed grace. The class fell in rapt silence as she paused, looked out to survey them all with penetrating blue eyes, and then opened her briefcase.
"Welcome, class, to Defense Against the Dark Arts. Though this class will be highly structured and at times be work intensive, I assure you that it will not in the least be boring."
Most of the students looked intrigued, especially Hermione. The class sounded exactly like something she would excel at.
"I will be teaching you both traditional and non-traditional approaches to Defense Against the Dark Arts. Through personal experience, I have found that both are necessary for a well-rounded wizard's education. Now, for your course objectives. Please copy--" O'Malley flicked her wand, and several sentences appeared on the blackboard: Learn to identify various threats and the most effective survival techniques.
2. Learn to block your opponent's spells.
3. Learn how to defend yourself without use of a wand.
4. Examine your life in the light of the Greek philosopher Socrates.
"Above all else," O'Malley continued, "I want you to take away from this course, a great sense of yourself. That is, perhaps, the greatest thing I can teach you along the way. Next, I have a proposed syllabus for our entire year. I have been informed of what you've studied so far, and we have a lot of work to do. I thought I'd start with a brief synopsis of the basics, then proceed immediately to the more non- traditional styles of self-defense. Learning to defend yourself without a wand is an important affair, and many adult wizards don't know what to do when the situation presents itself. In order to facilitate this aim of mine, Dumbledore has approved the revival of the Dueling Club. So, when the time comes, you will have your chance to learn to defend yourselves in a more practical manner. If anything I want to encourage you to reach your maximum potential, and the best way to do so is first-hand practice."
Malfoy turned and whispered a few words to his fellow Slytherins, which was clearly a grave mistake. "Mr. Malfoy, is there something you wish to share with the entire class?" He immediately replied sarcastically, "no Professor O'Malley." Several of the students snickered softly.
"I see. Clearly you think what I have to say is of little consequence to your education. I could ask you to leave this class for you abysmal behavior but that, I think, would be too easy. Perhaps you would like to get up and teach this class yourself, since you feel the need to talk while I'm talking. Come on, up front. Now."
It was the Gryffindors' turn to hold back their laughter, as Malfoy was made to stand up in front of class while O'Malley took his empty seat.
Malfoy turned red, looking miserable. After a few moments O'Malley spoke again. "Are you ready to listen to what I have to say, Mr. Malfoy?'
"Yes, miss," came the beaten reply.
"Take your seat then. As for the rest of you," she glared out at the rest of the room, "the same rules apply. There are to be no conversations in the class outside of the material being discussed, no talking unless prompted to do so. Any rule breaking and I will not hesitate to take away houses points and award you with detention. Do I make myself clear?"
Everyone nodded their heads.
"Wonderful," she said cheerfully. "We have learned how to show respect for one's Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. I assure you, that when you show me respect you will receive it in return. Now, who can tell me about Socrates other than his country of origin and occupation?"
Everyone looked around hesitantly, to see if someone knew the answer. When not even Hermione knew, they all looked awkwardly back up to the teacher awaiting the answer. "Socrates," O'Malley continued, is the man behind the principle that will drive this class. He once said 'the unexamined life is not worth living.' " The words appeared on the board. "Next, I have something to show you," she said, eyes glimmering.
Everyone leaned forward, as O'Malley lifted the black cloth from the bowl on her desk. No one could see what was inside.
"Here, I have an entire bowl full of pebbles," O'Malley said. Confusion spread on everyone's faces. "You are each to take one and write me three rolls worth of parchment on what you have learned from them in the light of Socrates' principle, to be handed in on your last day of class. You may write more than the required length, if you wish. Any questions regarding this, or any assignment for that matter, may be discussed with me at any time other than class."
At this point, O'Malley passed the bowl around and everyone took one of the pebbles, wondering what in the world they were supposed to do with it.
"And for immediate homework, I think it wise to start with a day's worth of basic review. There are four rows of you.row one, I want a detailed report from you on the kelpie, to be handed in on Thursday. Row two, the same on the demiguise. Row three, the graphorn, and row four, the runespoor. That's all, you are dismissed."
As the students filed out of class, Harry and Ron exchanged glances. "Well that was certainly interesting," Harry said. Ron shook his head, "tell me about it. She may be nice to look at and all, but it looks like it's going to be a long year."
Hermione looked deep in thought. "I don't know, Malfoy did have it coming. He shouldn't have been talking in the first place, though Professor O'Malley did come down on him pretty hard. If nothing else, the class should be informative."
Ron rolled his eyes. "Who knows. All I know is that we have a load of homework to hand in for Thursday."
Draco Malfoy suddenly pushed by them, in a huff. "Out of the way, Weasley," shoving Ron with his shoulder.
"What's your problem now, Malfoy?" Ron laughed after him. "Got a taste of what it's like to get into trouble, did you?"
As Ron's voice died away, Draco strode off towards the dungeons. He stomped into Snape's office, and slammed the door behind him.
"I can't STAND that witch," Draco sneered, throwing his books to the floor.
Snape looked up calmly, an amused expression on his sallow face. "Well, what happened?"
Draco sighed, then told Snape all about the embarrassing lesson. A forcibly hidden smirk began to dawn on Snape's face, as Draco finished his story.
Draco paused. "You don't actually think this is funny, do you? It was completely out of line! You should be telling the headmaster all about O'Malley's little jaunt at my expense."
"Settle down, Draco, I will take of everything," said Snape coolly. "I will talk to O'Malley in person. Now off you go."
After Draco Malfoy picked up his things and left, Snape did not return immediately to the stack of Potions essays yet to be graded. From the sounds of it, Defense Against the Dark Arts finally had a competent teacher. He had to admit to himself, he was somewhat impressed at O'Malley's brass. Most instructors were too timid to address their students with such force, especially first-timers. Then again, O'Malley was anything but typical. Snape leaned back in his chair, and could hardly wait until it was time for dinner.
* * * * * * *
Later that evening an overcast, night sky covered the ceiling of the Great Hall. Snape arrived at the staff table only to find O'Malley already there, talking animatedly with Professor Flitwick. Snape started to pile food onto his plate, glaring out over the four house tables full of students. He glanced at the Slytherin table, in time to see Goyle pelting a first year girl with a dinner roll. Snape rolled his eyes. That behavior would certainly not redeem Slytherin house from the stereotype of being nothing but a bunch of bullies and dark wizards. How many times had he made that clear?
Almost as soon as dinner started Snape heard the side door open, and saw a shabby looking wizard stride up to Professor Dumbledore. "Sorry I'm a bit late," said Remus Lupin. "The others will be along shortly." Sure enough the caretaker, Filch, was setting up three extra chairs at the staff table. Professor Flitwick moved over, and Lupin sat next to Professor O'Malley. Lupin turned to look at O'Malley, and a warm smile spread across his face. "So," he said, "Samantha O'Malley I presume?"
"You presume correctly, Mr. Lupin. A pleasure to make your acquaintance," she said,
extending a hand.
"My name's Remus Lupin. And the pleasure is mine indeed," Lupin replied, taking her hand and leaning to kiss it. O'Malley flinched, and withdrew her hand just in time. Snape furrowed his brow, trying to figure out the reason behind the reaction.
O'Malley looked down briefly at the floor. "My apologies, I wasn't expecting that."
"That's all right, Professor O'Malley. You see, I'm afraid I couldn't help it," Lupin replied awkwardly. O'Malley raised an eyebrow.
Snape rolled his eyes, while O'Malley's eyes glinted dangerously. "You presume too much, Mr. Lupin. Do not assume that charm will get you anywhere with me." Lupin looked slightly crestfallen. Snape smiled to himself. "In fact, if you would kindly eliminate superficialities around me in the future, that would be grand. I do realize that we are to be colleagues, of a shade. In spite of that, I intend to make every effort to make this operation run as smoothly as possible."
Lupin paused, temporarily speechless. "It is my turn, then, to apologize. I didn't mean to offend you."
"Don't think on it anymore, Mr. Lupin, it's quite all right. We'll get along fine," O'Malley said blankly. "I suppose you find this highly amusing, Professor?" she added quietly as she leaned in to Snape.
"Why yes, I confess that I do," he said, trying to hide a smirk.
"I think I see the beginnings of a grin, Severus. Quick, hide it! The students are looking, man."
Snape chuckled as quietly as he could, but he found it extremely difficult. Whenever he looked over, O'Malley would cross her eyes and start him laughing all over again. Snape couldn't believe how easy it was to unwind when he was around her, but that worried him at the same time. Before he had a chance to think about it much more, the next two dinner guests arrived.
Mad-eye Moody and Nymphadora Tonks joined the staff table, much to the delight of O'Malley. Tonks and O'Malley practically beamed when they saw each other, and it was clear to Snape the two were close friends.
"Look at you, Professor Samantha O'Malley! Teaching at Hogwarts, well I had to come and see this for myself," Tonks said as she hugged O'Malley. "I can hardly believe how long it's been since I've last seen you."
"I know, the time has gone by much too fast," O'Malley replied. "It will be great to work with you again," she added with a wink.
Moody shook O'Malley's hand vigorously. "Well Sam O'Malley, it is an honor to see you again. Didn't think I would, for a while there," said
Moody, and O'Malley became instantly cautious. "I think you'll be great at the job, make no mistake. But we'll miss you down at the office, that's for damn sure."
"I missed you too, Mad-eye. I miss the old office, except for Arnie Peasgood, of course," she said. Moody and Tonks had a good laugh over this.
"I find the company here to be quite enjoyable in contrast."
Lupin moved and sat with Moody at the other side of the table, while Tonks sat next to O'Malley. "So," said Tonks, "given anyone a hard time yet?"
"My dear, of course I have, you know me," O'Malley winked. "I'm quite excited about my classes, to tell you the truth. I think I can give them some very valuable information. So how are things down at the office?"
"They're doing all right. Minster is still acting up, of course, the blustering old fool."
"Tell me about it. Blinder than a bat, that one."
"I can't understand how he even became Minister of Magic. Ah well, let's save it for the meeting. I've got to tell you, your little Arnold is still asking after you."
"Heaven above, he just won't give up, will he. Not like I've given him reason."
Tonks laughed good naturedly. Snape felt the lump growing in his throat disappear.
"Hush up, Tonks. You wouldn't fancy that either." She looked around, then added in a squeaky voice, " 'Sam, you're looking pretty than usual today, what's your secret?' 'Sam, did you know that we both have the same taste in music? Fancy that, isn't that a coincidence?' 'Sam, I don't have any opinions of my own, I think what you tell me to think. I just want you so bad, oh Sam!'"
Tonks went hysterical, giggling uncontrollably. Soon dinner was over, and Dumbledore turned to his dinner guests.
"Well then, shall we take this in the staff room? O'Malley, Moody and Tonks followed Dumbledore out of the Great Hall, leaving Snape to wonder what they could be talking about. What would two Aurors be doing visiting this time of night? Then Snape started to develop a theory, as only he could. Maybe O'Malley didn't make a clean break from her work at the Ministry. Maybe she was silently working as part of the Order of the Phoenix. But Dumbledore would have included him in the meeting. Unless Snape was mistaken about the level of trust between himself and the headmaster?
The sun rose on a Tuesday morning, and the sixth-year Gryffindors and Slytherins were eager for their first Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson with Professor O'Malley. Just before Draco Malfoy left the Slytherin common room, though, Snape cornered him. "I want to know exactly what goes on in that classroom, Malfoy," Snape said quietly. "Someone ought to know whether or not O'Malley can live up to her status." Malfoy grinned at being given what he deemed an important job, and ran off to the lesson with his nose in the air. The Potions master scowled, doubting Malfoy would actually bring him any useful information. Snape knew very well O'Malley's teaching would be above standards, but he was curious all the same as to what would transpire there.
* * * * * * *
The students chattered noisily as they filed into their first Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson. Harry, Ron and Hermione took seats near the back, as usual, while Draco Malfoy took his place near the front. Harry and Ron immediately took notice. "Since when does he like to sit up front?" Ron said. Hermione shrugged her shoulders.
They didn't give Malfoy much notice for long. As everyone took there seats, many looked around and surveyed the new décor. The room was exceedingly plain, with nothing lining the stone walls. In fact the only evidence that a teacher was there were the blackboard and the objects on the desk, and the desk seemed nothing extraordinary. Several books were stacked off to the right side, next to a bowl covered by a black cloth. In the center of the desk sat a closed, worn briefcase.
Just when they least expected it Professor O'Malley walked in, silent as a shadow, announcing her presence as the door snapped shut. Several people flinched at the sound, as they had not expected her to enter with such stealth. Professor O'Malley raised an eyebrow at the reaction she received and smiled, advancing up to her desk without a single word. Harry suddenly understood why Malfoy was at the front: this was definitely one the most beautiful witches he had ever seen, and a Hogwarts professor no less. Even in plain black work robes, she seemed to have an unsurpassed grace. The class fell in rapt silence as she paused, looked out to survey them all with penetrating blue eyes, and then opened her briefcase.
"Welcome, class, to Defense Against the Dark Arts. Though this class will be highly structured and at times be work intensive, I assure you that it will not in the least be boring."
Most of the students looked intrigued, especially Hermione. The class sounded exactly like something she would excel at.
"I will be teaching you both traditional and non-traditional approaches to Defense Against the Dark Arts. Through personal experience, I have found that both are necessary for a well-rounded wizard's education. Now, for your course objectives. Please copy--" O'Malley flicked her wand, and several sentences appeared on the blackboard: Learn to identify various threats and the most effective survival techniques.
2. Learn to block your opponent's spells.
3. Learn how to defend yourself without use of a wand.
4. Examine your life in the light of the Greek philosopher Socrates.
"Above all else," O'Malley continued, "I want you to take away from this course, a great sense of yourself. That is, perhaps, the greatest thing I can teach you along the way. Next, I have a proposed syllabus for our entire year. I have been informed of what you've studied so far, and we have a lot of work to do. I thought I'd start with a brief synopsis of the basics, then proceed immediately to the more non- traditional styles of self-defense. Learning to defend yourself without a wand is an important affair, and many adult wizards don't know what to do when the situation presents itself. In order to facilitate this aim of mine, Dumbledore has approved the revival of the Dueling Club. So, when the time comes, you will have your chance to learn to defend yourselves in a more practical manner. If anything I want to encourage you to reach your maximum potential, and the best way to do so is first-hand practice."
Malfoy turned and whispered a few words to his fellow Slytherins, which was clearly a grave mistake. "Mr. Malfoy, is there something you wish to share with the entire class?" He immediately replied sarcastically, "no Professor O'Malley." Several of the students snickered softly.
"I see. Clearly you think what I have to say is of little consequence to your education. I could ask you to leave this class for you abysmal behavior but that, I think, would be too easy. Perhaps you would like to get up and teach this class yourself, since you feel the need to talk while I'm talking. Come on, up front. Now."
It was the Gryffindors' turn to hold back their laughter, as Malfoy was made to stand up in front of class while O'Malley took his empty seat.
Malfoy turned red, looking miserable. After a few moments O'Malley spoke again. "Are you ready to listen to what I have to say, Mr. Malfoy?'
"Yes, miss," came the beaten reply.
"Take your seat then. As for the rest of you," she glared out at the rest of the room, "the same rules apply. There are to be no conversations in the class outside of the material being discussed, no talking unless prompted to do so. Any rule breaking and I will not hesitate to take away houses points and award you with detention. Do I make myself clear?"
Everyone nodded their heads.
"Wonderful," she said cheerfully. "We have learned how to show respect for one's Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. I assure you, that when you show me respect you will receive it in return. Now, who can tell me about Socrates other than his country of origin and occupation?"
Everyone looked around hesitantly, to see if someone knew the answer. When not even Hermione knew, they all looked awkwardly back up to the teacher awaiting the answer. "Socrates," O'Malley continued, is the man behind the principle that will drive this class. He once said 'the unexamined life is not worth living.' " The words appeared on the board. "Next, I have something to show you," she said, eyes glimmering.
Everyone leaned forward, as O'Malley lifted the black cloth from the bowl on her desk. No one could see what was inside.
"Here, I have an entire bowl full of pebbles," O'Malley said. Confusion spread on everyone's faces. "You are each to take one and write me three rolls worth of parchment on what you have learned from them in the light of Socrates' principle, to be handed in on your last day of class. You may write more than the required length, if you wish. Any questions regarding this, or any assignment for that matter, may be discussed with me at any time other than class."
At this point, O'Malley passed the bowl around and everyone took one of the pebbles, wondering what in the world they were supposed to do with it.
"And for immediate homework, I think it wise to start with a day's worth of basic review. There are four rows of you.row one, I want a detailed report from you on the kelpie, to be handed in on Thursday. Row two, the same on the demiguise. Row three, the graphorn, and row four, the runespoor. That's all, you are dismissed."
As the students filed out of class, Harry and Ron exchanged glances. "Well that was certainly interesting," Harry said. Ron shook his head, "tell me about it. She may be nice to look at and all, but it looks like it's going to be a long year."
Hermione looked deep in thought. "I don't know, Malfoy did have it coming. He shouldn't have been talking in the first place, though Professor O'Malley did come down on him pretty hard. If nothing else, the class should be informative."
Ron rolled his eyes. "Who knows. All I know is that we have a load of homework to hand in for Thursday."
Draco Malfoy suddenly pushed by them, in a huff. "Out of the way, Weasley," shoving Ron with his shoulder.
"What's your problem now, Malfoy?" Ron laughed after him. "Got a taste of what it's like to get into trouble, did you?"
As Ron's voice died away, Draco strode off towards the dungeons. He stomped into Snape's office, and slammed the door behind him.
"I can't STAND that witch," Draco sneered, throwing his books to the floor.
Snape looked up calmly, an amused expression on his sallow face. "Well, what happened?"
Draco sighed, then told Snape all about the embarrassing lesson. A forcibly hidden smirk began to dawn on Snape's face, as Draco finished his story.
Draco paused. "You don't actually think this is funny, do you? It was completely out of line! You should be telling the headmaster all about O'Malley's little jaunt at my expense."
"Settle down, Draco, I will take of everything," said Snape coolly. "I will talk to O'Malley in person. Now off you go."
After Draco Malfoy picked up his things and left, Snape did not return immediately to the stack of Potions essays yet to be graded. From the sounds of it, Defense Against the Dark Arts finally had a competent teacher. He had to admit to himself, he was somewhat impressed at O'Malley's brass. Most instructors were too timid to address their students with such force, especially first-timers. Then again, O'Malley was anything but typical. Snape leaned back in his chair, and could hardly wait until it was time for dinner.
* * * * * * *
Later that evening an overcast, night sky covered the ceiling of the Great Hall. Snape arrived at the staff table only to find O'Malley already there, talking animatedly with Professor Flitwick. Snape started to pile food onto his plate, glaring out over the four house tables full of students. He glanced at the Slytherin table, in time to see Goyle pelting a first year girl with a dinner roll. Snape rolled his eyes. That behavior would certainly not redeem Slytherin house from the stereotype of being nothing but a bunch of bullies and dark wizards. How many times had he made that clear?
Almost as soon as dinner started Snape heard the side door open, and saw a shabby looking wizard stride up to Professor Dumbledore. "Sorry I'm a bit late," said Remus Lupin. "The others will be along shortly." Sure enough the caretaker, Filch, was setting up three extra chairs at the staff table. Professor Flitwick moved over, and Lupin sat next to Professor O'Malley. Lupin turned to look at O'Malley, and a warm smile spread across his face. "So," he said, "Samantha O'Malley I presume?"
"You presume correctly, Mr. Lupin. A pleasure to make your acquaintance," she said,
extending a hand.
"My name's Remus Lupin. And the pleasure is mine indeed," Lupin replied, taking her hand and leaning to kiss it. O'Malley flinched, and withdrew her hand just in time. Snape furrowed his brow, trying to figure out the reason behind the reaction.
O'Malley looked down briefly at the floor. "My apologies, I wasn't expecting that."
"That's all right, Professor O'Malley. You see, I'm afraid I couldn't help it," Lupin replied awkwardly. O'Malley raised an eyebrow.
Snape rolled his eyes, while O'Malley's eyes glinted dangerously. "You presume too much, Mr. Lupin. Do not assume that charm will get you anywhere with me." Lupin looked slightly crestfallen. Snape smiled to himself. "In fact, if you would kindly eliminate superficialities around me in the future, that would be grand. I do realize that we are to be colleagues, of a shade. In spite of that, I intend to make every effort to make this operation run as smoothly as possible."
Lupin paused, temporarily speechless. "It is my turn, then, to apologize. I didn't mean to offend you."
"Don't think on it anymore, Mr. Lupin, it's quite all right. We'll get along fine," O'Malley said blankly. "I suppose you find this highly amusing, Professor?" she added quietly as she leaned in to Snape.
"Why yes, I confess that I do," he said, trying to hide a smirk.
"I think I see the beginnings of a grin, Severus. Quick, hide it! The students are looking, man."
Snape chuckled as quietly as he could, but he found it extremely difficult. Whenever he looked over, O'Malley would cross her eyes and start him laughing all over again. Snape couldn't believe how easy it was to unwind when he was around her, but that worried him at the same time. Before he had a chance to think about it much more, the next two dinner guests arrived.
Mad-eye Moody and Nymphadora Tonks joined the staff table, much to the delight of O'Malley. Tonks and O'Malley practically beamed when they saw each other, and it was clear to Snape the two were close friends.
"Look at you, Professor Samantha O'Malley! Teaching at Hogwarts, well I had to come and see this for myself," Tonks said as she hugged O'Malley. "I can hardly believe how long it's been since I've last seen you."
"I know, the time has gone by much too fast," O'Malley replied. "It will be great to work with you again," she added with a wink.
Moody shook O'Malley's hand vigorously. "Well Sam O'Malley, it is an honor to see you again. Didn't think I would, for a while there," said
Moody, and O'Malley became instantly cautious. "I think you'll be great at the job, make no mistake. But we'll miss you down at the office, that's for damn sure."
"I missed you too, Mad-eye. I miss the old office, except for Arnie Peasgood, of course," she said. Moody and Tonks had a good laugh over this.
"I find the company here to be quite enjoyable in contrast."
Lupin moved and sat with Moody at the other side of the table, while Tonks sat next to O'Malley. "So," said Tonks, "given anyone a hard time yet?"
"My dear, of course I have, you know me," O'Malley winked. "I'm quite excited about my classes, to tell you the truth. I think I can give them some very valuable information. So how are things down at the office?"
"They're doing all right. Minster is still acting up, of course, the blustering old fool."
"Tell me about it. Blinder than a bat, that one."
"I can't understand how he even became Minister of Magic. Ah well, let's save it for the meeting. I've got to tell you, your little Arnold is still asking after you."
"Heaven above, he just won't give up, will he. Not like I've given him reason."
Tonks laughed good naturedly. Snape felt the lump growing in his throat disappear.
"Hush up, Tonks. You wouldn't fancy that either." She looked around, then added in a squeaky voice, " 'Sam, you're looking pretty than usual today, what's your secret?' 'Sam, did you know that we both have the same taste in music? Fancy that, isn't that a coincidence?' 'Sam, I don't have any opinions of my own, I think what you tell me to think. I just want you so bad, oh Sam!'"
Tonks went hysterical, giggling uncontrollably. Soon dinner was over, and Dumbledore turned to his dinner guests.
"Well then, shall we take this in the staff room? O'Malley, Moody and Tonks followed Dumbledore out of the Great Hall, leaving Snape to wonder what they could be talking about. What would two Aurors be doing visiting this time of night? Then Snape started to develop a theory, as only he could. Maybe O'Malley didn't make a clean break from her work at the Ministry. Maybe she was silently working as part of the Order of the Phoenix. But Dumbledore would have included him in the meeting. Unless Snape was mistaken about the level of trust between himself and the headmaster?