As I mentioned previously, I do not own one single solitary character or setting portrayed in this fic. I have no claim upon any part of the wonderful works of fiction created and owned solely by J.K. Rowling.

Thanks for the reviews. I found them energizing. I am excited to continue writing, so heeeeeere's chapter 3. It's a lot shorter than the other two, but I'm tired now so I have to stop.

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Professor Snape, having had a moment to compose himself, snidely turned to Dumbledore, "Headmaster, I was not aware that there has been a change in the rules of conduct at Hogwarts. I may only speak for myself, but I for one do not approve of students committing acts of ill bred physicality against their teachers."

"Severus," Dumbledore replied wearily, "Given your constant baiting of Ms. Granger throughout her tenure at Hogwarts, it is amazing to me that she has not struck you before now. For this, I believe we must all be thankful. You are correct in your assertion that it is not a practice I would condone on a regular basis. However, for today.... And now, may we move on to the urgent matter at hand. We have already wasted precious time."

"Albus," inserted Sirius impatiently, "May I suggest that Harry, Hermione, and I proceed directly to a safe location I have already secured for us. My thoughts are that I can assume my animagus state, and therefore keep an eye on the two of them while continuing to infiltrate Deatheater meetings."

"Sirius, I appreciate your quick response and subsequent actions," replied Dumbledore. However, Arthur Weasley and I have already laid out a plan. Having said that, please do your best to save your questions and comments for a few moments. There are quite a few details to wade through."

"First of all, immediately upon the conclusion of our meeting, there will be an all owl notice sent to the home of each student. We will be advising them that the interim period between Christmas and the second half of the term will be extended until the first of February."

Three voices interjected at once. Hermione immediately protested the loss of the few precious school days that were all that remained before finals. Harry, on the other hand, demanded information about remainder of the quidditch season. And Professor Snape, normally impassive, questioned the sanity of such a decision by nearly shouting, "Are you mad!"

"If need be," continued Dumbledore as if no one had spoken, "We can continue the second term into the summer if parents are willing. Now, the necessity of this extension of the holiday break is a valid one. After all, it is not everyday that I announce the sudden death of our esteemed Potions Master."

For the second time that day, Snape was so dumbfounded he could not speak. Despite the serious issue at hand, Hermione couldn't hold back a giggle at his open-mouthed expression.

"I can see by your response, Ms. Granger, that you find the idea of my demise humorous? How unfortunate for me," replied Snape with a sarcastic emphasis on the word "unfortunate."

"Professor Snape, that is not true," replied Hermione with an air of innocence. " I wasn't laughing at the thought of your purported death. I was laughing because with your mouth open you reminded me of a large black fish."

"This is madness," said Sirius. "Knock it off you two. There is serious business to discuss. Dumbledore, are you quite sure that we need to go to these lengths?"

"Arthur and I are not willing to take any chances," Dumbledore replied tiredly. "If Voldemort is on the rise, we feel certain he will focus his attack at the school where we have a large number of students vulnerable to his brand of prejudice. The temptation of Harry and Hermione alone would have the same effect as dangling a beefsteak before Fluffy. Therefore, to ensure the safety of everyone, the school will remain empty with the exception of the staff less one teacher. Since we cannot extend holidays willy-nilly, we need to have a valid reason for such an action. Hence, the announcement of Professor Snape's unexpected death. After all, it will logically follow that our staff will need additional time to mourn his passing, and that I will need to look for another potions master. Additionally, we can secure Severus's safety as well... And, perhaps most importantly, this will keep parental concerns to a minimum."

"What! I merit only an additional two weeks to mark my death," said Snape sarcastically.

"Unfortunately," replied Dumbledore, "Yes... Now, by putting it about that Severus is dead, Voldemort will naturally turn his attentions to Harry and Hermione, so listen carefully. Sirius, I want you to take Harry with you according to your plans. Hermione, you and Severus will pair up. I am sending you to the United States where you will temporarily assume false muggle identities."