Chapter 6
Narnia woke to find that she had slept in the chair all night. She hadn't slept that well and she found that her neck was a little stiff. Afraid she had risen too late, she jumped up and got ready for the day's tasks. All she would need after last night's adventure was to arrive to breakfast late. Arriving behind schedule wasn't exactly the way she wanted to start out her day. Students would arrive tomorrow and she had so much to accomplish before then. With her mind occupied with things she had to do, last night's dream did not come to mind.
Narnia walked into the Great Hall for breakfast, steadying her breath as she realized that she was a bit early. Eyeing her place at the table, she was dissatisfied to see that in the chair beside of hers sat the man who had treated her so unkindly the night before. "I hope it's not like this all year," she thought. Taking a deep breath and eager for a good start to a busy day, she took her seat and greeted her colleagues warmly.
"Good morning." Looking around the table, she was happy to see that not all of the staff members wore the same bitter expression as her neighbor. She glanced at him and then to Professor Flitwick who had chimed in. "Professor Fairling I do believe you missed the opportunity of meeting our Potions Master last evening. Allow me." Narnia noticed that the man beside her had shifted slightly at this statement. "Severus Snape, Narnia Fairling." Narnia turned her head to look at the man and he only gazed at his plate as he fumbled around a piece of ham with his fork and knife. Narnia could feel several pairs of eyes wandering in their direction, as if in anticipation.
"I'm afraid Professor Fairling and I have already met as she was quite lost in the corridors leading into the dungeons last night." He glanced up at her, grinning, a challenging, and malicious look on his face. "Let us hope a sense of direction is all she lacks in."
Snape's mouth twisted in a sneer as if to claim victory. Narnia held his gaze, feeling a hot sensation rising in her cheeks, determined not to look away until he broke the connection. Unaware of the conversation going on beside of her, Professor McGonagall began informing Narnia on tomorrow's protocol and she was glad for the sudden interruption. She turned away from Snape and gave full attention to the current discussion. She had heard some of the stories of the sorting before, from her Gran, and she didn't mind hearing it again. It was somewhat different this time; however, because now she would be seeing it all happen for the first time. "Will you need my assistance in anyway, Minerva?" Narnia asked as she added another muffin to her plate.
"Hopefully all will go well. There really isn't much for the staff to do. We generally leave most of the duties to the prefects," Professor McGonagall replied. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some things to tend to."
Professor McGonagall got up from the table and left the hall. Several other staff members had left as well and to Narnia's displeasure, Snape remained seated. Almost suffocating from the tension between them, Narnia breathed deeply into her chest, trying to contain her composure. She was unsure why this man treated her so cruelly, but perhaps he was of this nature with everyone. It wasn't as though he had reserved his hateful attitude for her, but she did feel somewhat singled out and it hadn't escaped her how the other professors had reacted when Snape addressed her, diverting their eyes and scrambling for new conversation. She folded up her napkin and laid it on her plate. Before she could rise from the table, Snape spoke, slowly and articulately.
"The Headmaster appears to have confidence in your ability to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts. However, my confidence is not so easily gained and I will keep a watchful eye."
Narnia looked at him surprised at what she was hearing. Nothing seemed beyond him. His unkindness seemed to know no limit. She gathered her thoughts and then replied with the greatest of ease, even though her heart was pounding in her chest. "I'm afraid, Professor, that somehow you and I have started out on the wrong foot. I assure you that I did not come to Hogwarts to boost others' confidence in myself. I find upon gaining your acquaintance, yours would be the least I would desire." Snape had met her glare and upon this, Narnia intensified hers. "The one thing that brought me here was my uncle's confidence and that is the one thing that will keep me. Your attempts to intimidate me are no more than that. Attempts. Keep your watchful eye. I daresay that you will be disappointed when you find that I am quite capable of handling the responsibility laid at my feet."
He offered no argument, but the look on his face was of dislike. Perhaps he had never been spoken to like this before, especially from a woman or maybe he was just angry that he hadn't actually succeeded in threatening her. Whatever it was, he did not speak another word and left the table.
"How infuriating!" Narnia thought to herself. She recalled the conversation in her mind and pondered her own response. She had never spoken to anyone like that in her life and in turn, had rarely ever been spoken to so rudely. He had provoked her and she had risen to the occasion. The last person that had spoken to her in this manner had been her father and even though she had wished, momentarily, that she had been able to lash back at him that day in the café, she was later thankful that she hadn't. She started to feel somewhat guilty for her behavior towards Snape. She hadn't acted professionally. She knew had she not been so tired this morning, she may have exercised a bit more judgment and may not have said some of the things she did. She generally got along with everyone and when she didn't hit it off with someone, it bothered her. "He had it coming, though," she tried to reassure herself. She took another sip of pumpkin juice and left the Hall, thinking of all she needed to do.
The day slipped by rapidly and Narnia had accomplished most of what she had set out to do. The errands she had to attend to in Hogsmeade took longer than she had expected. The shops were intriguing to her and she found it hard to pass any by, even if there was nothing she needed to buy from them. She had been in need of robes and some warmer clothing and left the village with quite an addition to her wardrobe. She had spent the remainder of the day in her office, organizing her books and writing out her lessons for the first week. She had been so busy that she had forgotten to break for lunch, and realizing that it was almost time for dinner, she tidied up a few last pieces of parchment and headed down to the Great Hall.
When she arrived for dinner, Narnia was a bit discomforted to see that the seating arrangements had not changed since breakfast. She had forgotten about her conversation with Snape this morning and quickly replayed it in her mind. She knew that Gran would not have approved of her reproach and a wave of guilt swept over her.
Dinner was somewhat quiet this evening. Exhaustion could be felt and seen in everyone. Narnia presumed that every professor had spent the day preparing for tomorrow's arrival of students. Even her uncle seemed tired and a bit preoccupied. With dinner coming to a close, a dread settled in the pit of Narnia's stomach and she knew she had to do what she least desired. As everyone departed for the evening, she turned to face Snape.
"Professor, may I have a word?" Narnia asked, rising from the table.
He looked at her for a moment and said nothing.
"I'm afraid my behavior towards you this morning was a bit strong and I would like to apologize for it," declared Narnia. Narnia knew this admittance would open the door for him to harass her again, but she was determined this time to not let it affect her. She stood strong and braced herself for his remark. His immediate reaction puzzled her. He had seemed somewhat surprised by her, but only for a moment, and then the usual sour expression returned to his face. Just as he was about to respond, Professor Dumbledore joined them.
"Pardon me, Professors. Narnia, do you have a moment? I'd like to speak with you in my office," he stated.
"Of course," she replied. Her uncle had mentioned other things he needed to speak with her about, but he had been vague.
"Please excuse us, Severus," said Dumbledore, as if there was some unspoken understanding between them. Snape nodded and turned to leave.
Dumbledore led Narnia out of the Great Hall. Her mind began to wonder on what her uncle needed to discuss, a million ideas running through her mind. Yet, she came only to one conclusion and hoped she was wrong. "I'm afraid that our time will be short, again, this evening, but what I need to discuss with you is of utmost importance," he said as they reached the entryway to his office. He stepped onto the staircase, with Narnia following and they began to move upwards. "For future reference, the password is 'lavender lollipop' if you need to see me." Narnia looked at her uncle affectionately, appreciating his odd likeness to her grandmother. When they stepped into the office, Narnia stood in amazement as she viewed her uncle's collection of books and magical gadgets. Her eyes then came to rest on the paintings covering the walls.
"Past Headmasters of the school," her uncle stated. "And this is Fawkes." Narnia had been told her uncle had a phoenix and she walked over to stroke the bird's feathers.
"Please have a seat. Would you like some tea? Hot chocolate?" Dumbledore asked.
"Tea is fine. Thank you." Narnia replied, still looking around at the paintings.
"Here you go," Dumbledore said as he handed her a cup. He then took his seat. "Since our time is limited, I will get right to it. You are aware that Lord Voldemort returned a little over a year ago." Narnia shook her head in agreement. She had successfully predicted what her Uncle would be speaking with her about and she shifted nervously in her seat. "Well, this past year he has been gaining allies, old loyalties, and some new. In opposition, those unwilling to join him have come together and formed what is known as the Order of the Phoenix. We have suffered losses already and will suffer more, I'm afraid, but we have been successful in thwarting his restoration of the powers he once had. In other words, we have protected Harry Potter from him. Some in the magical community have still not come to terms with his return though many have, and most are too frightened to stand against him, concerned for the well being of their families." He paused for a moment and then began again.
"Not all of the staff, here at Hogwarts, are members of the Order. Most are oblivious to its existence. It is not a requirement, but it would be a great advantage to the Order to have you on board, helping us."
Narnia looked at her uncle, an array of questions popping up in her thoughts, her heart beating rapidly. "What exactly would be expected of me?" she asked.
"We meet, secretly, but at random times to discuss strategies and to share any new information. I'm positive that your opinions and views will prove most useful. As for any 'assignments', for now, a close eye on Harry while he is at school is what I would ask of you." Dumbledore became quiet and then looked at Narnia, piercing her with his stare. "I want to make sure that you are aware that commitment to the Order could mean your life."
Narnia nodded her head in acknowledgement. She knew before coming to Hogwarts that her uncle may ask her to help in the fight against Voldemort, but she had no idea that the situation had become so severe. She hadn't realized that Voldemort had become so powerful again, so quickly.
"This is not a decision I expect you to have the answer to tonight. I would like you to take as much time as you need," said Dumbledore.
"Actually," Narnia began, "this isn't the first time I've thought about something like this. To be honest, I was unaware that since Voldemort's return, things had turned so grim. I knew when I received your invitation to come to Hogwarts that this discussion was a possibility." She stopped for a moment and gathered her thoughts. "You have my deepest admiration and respect, Uncle, and I know you're asking this of me comes from pure motives. I'll stand with you and the Order and do my best to be of any assistance."
At this, her uncle gave her a look of appreciation and a smile had etched its way across his face. "I realize, Narnia, that there is much more to explain that we haven't touched upon this evening. Students will be arriving tomorrow and we will all be quite busy. Unless something unexpected arises, I doubt any of the Order will be called away from the school. Further details of our activities can be explained later when we have a bit more time. However, again, I would ask that you watch over Mr. Potter. You will not carry this responsibility alone, as others are keeping an eye on him as well. I daresay this will be his toughest year at Hogwarts, now that he is aware of the importance of his role in the war against Voldemort and with the loss of his godfather, Sirius Black." Dumbledore looked away, his expression becoming somber. "Any information regarding the Order must be kept within the Order and not shared by way of post or other means."
"Of course, sir. You said that there were other members of the staff that were in the Order," said Narnia inquisitively.
"Minerva McGonagall, Rubeus Hagrid, and Severus Snape. We have quite a group of students who are aware of its existence, too, including Harry, and they have proved to be a help at times. You'll quickly discover who these students are I'm sure. I assume they will be among the best in your class," Dumbledore replied. "I will be revealing your addition to the Order to everyone promptly. Therefore, if you have a question or problem, you can see me or go to Professors McGonagall, Hagrid, or Snape. They will offer any assistance that you may need."
Narnia thought of her meeting with Snape last night in the corridor and his effort to embarrass her at breakfast. She wasn't sure if she'd be running to him for much help, but just then she noticed her uncle had stopped speaking and was looking at her. Narnia met her uncle's eyes and she quickly looked away desperate for an excuse as to what distracted her.
"Ah." Dumbledore sat in thoughtful silence for a moment. "Severus has spoken with you." Narnia looked back at her uncle, somewhat, but not completely surprised at his knowing this.
Dumbledore stood from his seat and began to walk towards the window. "Severus is a fine potions master. One of the best I have seen. He serves the school and its students well, however rough around the edges he may be at times." Dumbledore stopped to unwrap a piece of candy that he had gathered from his desktop. "He feels that the school would best benefit if he was to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts and he covets that position immensely. Therefore, his reaction to my new appointed professor each year is to.. well, bully them. I would see no reason why he would not offer you this same treatment. I suppose it is his way of dealing with the disappointment. I would not concern myself with it, if I were you."
Narnia gave a reassuring smile to her Uncle; "I believe I can safely say I've only agitated him at my unwillingness to be frightened. It is at least a comfort to know that his attitude towards me is not a result of any of my actions."
"No, my dear niece. I can honestly say that he has not singled you out. His manner towards you is in fact how he treats the whole world."
Narnia raised her hand to her mouth, trying to stifle her laughter.
A knock at the door signaled the end of their meeting. The caretaker, Argus Filch, along with his cat, Mrs. Norris, stepped inside. "You wanted to see me Headmaster."
"Of course, Argus." Dumbledore looked back at Narnia. "I'm afraid we'll have to catch up at another time, Narnia."
Narnia rose from her chair and her uncle continued. "Good luck with your first week. I would love to hear about it one evening."
"Good night, Uncle," Narnia responded and left the Headmaster's office. She walked back into the corridor and made her way to her quarters.
Narnia sat in the frame of her window, staring out over the grounds at Hogwarts. Dark had fallen, but the moon sat high in the night sky and softly lit the world below. Her outlook once again had brightened at the revelation of the reason for Snape's vindictive mood. She chuckled at the thought of it. It had not been personal, but something she shared with her predecessors. She doubted that she would take his attacks so seriously again. She would not take part in his charade and would refuse to offer any reply to his remark. It would be what he would want, for her to lash back. She had other worries on her mind and things to concentrate on without playing childish games with a grown man. Dumbledore's words played through her mind again. ".. suffered losses already..will suffer more..commitment to the Order could mean your life.." She couldn't help but think that somewhere, out there, Voldemort was lurking, waiting for his chance to strike. She would indeed have to keep close supervision on young Harry. She knew his story, as did the rest of the wizarding world, and thinking of all that he had faced troubled her. She knew what it was like growing up without her parents, but she had been lucky in having Gran. Harry hadn't even had that.
Narnia took one last sip of tea and fell into bed. Her day had been full and now it was over.
Narnia woke to find that she had slept in the chair all night. She hadn't slept that well and she found that her neck was a little stiff. Afraid she had risen too late, she jumped up and got ready for the day's tasks. All she would need after last night's adventure was to arrive to breakfast late. Arriving behind schedule wasn't exactly the way she wanted to start out her day. Students would arrive tomorrow and she had so much to accomplish before then. With her mind occupied with things she had to do, last night's dream did not come to mind.
Narnia walked into the Great Hall for breakfast, steadying her breath as she realized that she was a bit early. Eyeing her place at the table, she was dissatisfied to see that in the chair beside of hers sat the man who had treated her so unkindly the night before. "I hope it's not like this all year," she thought. Taking a deep breath and eager for a good start to a busy day, she took her seat and greeted her colleagues warmly.
"Good morning." Looking around the table, she was happy to see that not all of the staff members wore the same bitter expression as her neighbor. She glanced at him and then to Professor Flitwick who had chimed in. "Professor Fairling I do believe you missed the opportunity of meeting our Potions Master last evening. Allow me." Narnia noticed that the man beside her had shifted slightly at this statement. "Severus Snape, Narnia Fairling." Narnia turned her head to look at the man and he only gazed at his plate as he fumbled around a piece of ham with his fork and knife. Narnia could feel several pairs of eyes wandering in their direction, as if in anticipation.
"I'm afraid Professor Fairling and I have already met as she was quite lost in the corridors leading into the dungeons last night." He glanced up at her, grinning, a challenging, and malicious look on his face. "Let us hope a sense of direction is all she lacks in."
Snape's mouth twisted in a sneer as if to claim victory. Narnia held his gaze, feeling a hot sensation rising in her cheeks, determined not to look away until he broke the connection. Unaware of the conversation going on beside of her, Professor McGonagall began informing Narnia on tomorrow's protocol and she was glad for the sudden interruption. She turned away from Snape and gave full attention to the current discussion. She had heard some of the stories of the sorting before, from her Gran, and she didn't mind hearing it again. It was somewhat different this time; however, because now she would be seeing it all happen for the first time. "Will you need my assistance in anyway, Minerva?" Narnia asked as she added another muffin to her plate.
"Hopefully all will go well. There really isn't much for the staff to do. We generally leave most of the duties to the prefects," Professor McGonagall replied. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some things to tend to."
Professor McGonagall got up from the table and left the hall. Several other staff members had left as well and to Narnia's displeasure, Snape remained seated. Almost suffocating from the tension between them, Narnia breathed deeply into her chest, trying to contain her composure. She was unsure why this man treated her so cruelly, but perhaps he was of this nature with everyone. It wasn't as though he had reserved his hateful attitude for her, but she did feel somewhat singled out and it hadn't escaped her how the other professors had reacted when Snape addressed her, diverting their eyes and scrambling for new conversation. She folded up her napkin and laid it on her plate. Before she could rise from the table, Snape spoke, slowly and articulately.
"The Headmaster appears to have confidence in your ability to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts. However, my confidence is not so easily gained and I will keep a watchful eye."
Narnia looked at him surprised at what she was hearing. Nothing seemed beyond him. His unkindness seemed to know no limit. She gathered her thoughts and then replied with the greatest of ease, even though her heart was pounding in her chest. "I'm afraid, Professor, that somehow you and I have started out on the wrong foot. I assure you that I did not come to Hogwarts to boost others' confidence in myself. I find upon gaining your acquaintance, yours would be the least I would desire." Snape had met her glare and upon this, Narnia intensified hers. "The one thing that brought me here was my uncle's confidence and that is the one thing that will keep me. Your attempts to intimidate me are no more than that. Attempts. Keep your watchful eye. I daresay that you will be disappointed when you find that I am quite capable of handling the responsibility laid at my feet."
He offered no argument, but the look on his face was of dislike. Perhaps he had never been spoken to like this before, especially from a woman or maybe he was just angry that he hadn't actually succeeded in threatening her. Whatever it was, he did not speak another word and left the table.
"How infuriating!" Narnia thought to herself. She recalled the conversation in her mind and pondered her own response. She had never spoken to anyone like that in her life and in turn, had rarely ever been spoken to so rudely. He had provoked her and she had risen to the occasion. The last person that had spoken to her in this manner had been her father and even though she had wished, momentarily, that she had been able to lash back at him that day in the café, she was later thankful that she hadn't. She started to feel somewhat guilty for her behavior towards Snape. She hadn't acted professionally. She knew had she not been so tired this morning, she may have exercised a bit more judgment and may not have said some of the things she did. She generally got along with everyone and when she didn't hit it off with someone, it bothered her. "He had it coming, though," she tried to reassure herself. She took another sip of pumpkin juice and left the Hall, thinking of all she needed to do.
The day slipped by rapidly and Narnia had accomplished most of what she had set out to do. The errands she had to attend to in Hogsmeade took longer than she had expected. The shops were intriguing to her and she found it hard to pass any by, even if there was nothing she needed to buy from them. She had been in need of robes and some warmer clothing and left the village with quite an addition to her wardrobe. She had spent the remainder of the day in her office, organizing her books and writing out her lessons for the first week. She had been so busy that she had forgotten to break for lunch, and realizing that it was almost time for dinner, she tidied up a few last pieces of parchment and headed down to the Great Hall.
When she arrived for dinner, Narnia was a bit discomforted to see that the seating arrangements had not changed since breakfast. She had forgotten about her conversation with Snape this morning and quickly replayed it in her mind. She knew that Gran would not have approved of her reproach and a wave of guilt swept over her.
Dinner was somewhat quiet this evening. Exhaustion could be felt and seen in everyone. Narnia presumed that every professor had spent the day preparing for tomorrow's arrival of students. Even her uncle seemed tired and a bit preoccupied. With dinner coming to a close, a dread settled in the pit of Narnia's stomach and she knew she had to do what she least desired. As everyone departed for the evening, she turned to face Snape.
"Professor, may I have a word?" Narnia asked, rising from the table.
He looked at her for a moment and said nothing.
"I'm afraid my behavior towards you this morning was a bit strong and I would like to apologize for it," declared Narnia. Narnia knew this admittance would open the door for him to harass her again, but she was determined this time to not let it affect her. She stood strong and braced herself for his remark. His immediate reaction puzzled her. He had seemed somewhat surprised by her, but only for a moment, and then the usual sour expression returned to his face. Just as he was about to respond, Professor Dumbledore joined them.
"Pardon me, Professors. Narnia, do you have a moment? I'd like to speak with you in my office," he stated.
"Of course," she replied. Her uncle had mentioned other things he needed to speak with her about, but he had been vague.
"Please excuse us, Severus," said Dumbledore, as if there was some unspoken understanding between them. Snape nodded and turned to leave.
Dumbledore led Narnia out of the Great Hall. Her mind began to wonder on what her uncle needed to discuss, a million ideas running through her mind. Yet, she came only to one conclusion and hoped she was wrong. "I'm afraid that our time will be short, again, this evening, but what I need to discuss with you is of utmost importance," he said as they reached the entryway to his office. He stepped onto the staircase, with Narnia following and they began to move upwards. "For future reference, the password is 'lavender lollipop' if you need to see me." Narnia looked at her uncle affectionately, appreciating his odd likeness to her grandmother. When they stepped into the office, Narnia stood in amazement as she viewed her uncle's collection of books and magical gadgets. Her eyes then came to rest on the paintings covering the walls.
"Past Headmasters of the school," her uncle stated. "And this is Fawkes." Narnia had been told her uncle had a phoenix and she walked over to stroke the bird's feathers.
"Please have a seat. Would you like some tea? Hot chocolate?" Dumbledore asked.
"Tea is fine. Thank you." Narnia replied, still looking around at the paintings.
"Here you go," Dumbledore said as he handed her a cup. He then took his seat. "Since our time is limited, I will get right to it. You are aware that Lord Voldemort returned a little over a year ago." Narnia shook her head in agreement. She had successfully predicted what her Uncle would be speaking with her about and she shifted nervously in her seat. "Well, this past year he has been gaining allies, old loyalties, and some new. In opposition, those unwilling to join him have come together and formed what is known as the Order of the Phoenix. We have suffered losses already and will suffer more, I'm afraid, but we have been successful in thwarting his restoration of the powers he once had. In other words, we have protected Harry Potter from him. Some in the magical community have still not come to terms with his return though many have, and most are too frightened to stand against him, concerned for the well being of their families." He paused for a moment and then began again.
"Not all of the staff, here at Hogwarts, are members of the Order. Most are oblivious to its existence. It is not a requirement, but it would be a great advantage to the Order to have you on board, helping us."
Narnia looked at her uncle, an array of questions popping up in her thoughts, her heart beating rapidly. "What exactly would be expected of me?" she asked.
"We meet, secretly, but at random times to discuss strategies and to share any new information. I'm positive that your opinions and views will prove most useful. As for any 'assignments', for now, a close eye on Harry while he is at school is what I would ask of you." Dumbledore became quiet and then looked at Narnia, piercing her with his stare. "I want to make sure that you are aware that commitment to the Order could mean your life."
Narnia nodded her head in acknowledgement. She knew before coming to Hogwarts that her uncle may ask her to help in the fight against Voldemort, but she had no idea that the situation had become so severe. She hadn't realized that Voldemort had become so powerful again, so quickly.
"This is not a decision I expect you to have the answer to tonight. I would like you to take as much time as you need," said Dumbledore.
"Actually," Narnia began, "this isn't the first time I've thought about something like this. To be honest, I was unaware that since Voldemort's return, things had turned so grim. I knew when I received your invitation to come to Hogwarts that this discussion was a possibility." She stopped for a moment and gathered her thoughts. "You have my deepest admiration and respect, Uncle, and I know you're asking this of me comes from pure motives. I'll stand with you and the Order and do my best to be of any assistance."
At this, her uncle gave her a look of appreciation and a smile had etched its way across his face. "I realize, Narnia, that there is much more to explain that we haven't touched upon this evening. Students will be arriving tomorrow and we will all be quite busy. Unless something unexpected arises, I doubt any of the Order will be called away from the school. Further details of our activities can be explained later when we have a bit more time. However, again, I would ask that you watch over Mr. Potter. You will not carry this responsibility alone, as others are keeping an eye on him as well. I daresay this will be his toughest year at Hogwarts, now that he is aware of the importance of his role in the war against Voldemort and with the loss of his godfather, Sirius Black." Dumbledore looked away, his expression becoming somber. "Any information regarding the Order must be kept within the Order and not shared by way of post or other means."
"Of course, sir. You said that there were other members of the staff that were in the Order," said Narnia inquisitively.
"Minerva McGonagall, Rubeus Hagrid, and Severus Snape. We have quite a group of students who are aware of its existence, too, including Harry, and they have proved to be a help at times. You'll quickly discover who these students are I'm sure. I assume they will be among the best in your class," Dumbledore replied. "I will be revealing your addition to the Order to everyone promptly. Therefore, if you have a question or problem, you can see me or go to Professors McGonagall, Hagrid, or Snape. They will offer any assistance that you may need."
Narnia thought of her meeting with Snape last night in the corridor and his effort to embarrass her at breakfast. She wasn't sure if she'd be running to him for much help, but just then she noticed her uncle had stopped speaking and was looking at her. Narnia met her uncle's eyes and she quickly looked away desperate for an excuse as to what distracted her.
"Ah." Dumbledore sat in thoughtful silence for a moment. "Severus has spoken with you." Narnia looked back at her uncle, somewhat, but not completely surprised at his knowing this.
Dumbledore stood from his seat and began to walk towards the window. "Severus is a fine potions master. One of the best I have seen. He serves the school and its students well, however rough around the edges he may be at times." Dumbledore stopped to unwrap a piece of candy that he had gathered from his desktop. "He feels that the school would best benefit if he was to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts and he covets that position immensely. Therefore, his reaction to my new appointed professor each year is to.. well, bully them. I would see no reason why he would not offer you this same treatment. I suppose it is his way of dealing with the disappointment. I would not concern myself with it, if I were you."
Narnia gave a reassuring smile to her Uncle; "I believe I can safely say I've only agitated him at my unwillingness to be frightened. It is at least a comfort to know that his attitude towards me is not a result of any of my actions."
"No, my dear niece. I can honestly say that he has not singled you out. His manner towards you is in fact how he treats the whole world."
Narnia raised her hand to her mouth, trying to stifle her laughter.
A knock at the door signaled the end of their meeting. The caretaker, Argus Filch, along with his cat, Mrs. Norris, stepped inside. "You wanted to see me Headmaster."
"Of course, Argus." Dumbledore looked back at Narnia. "I'm afraid we'll have to catch up at another time, Narnia."
Narnia rose from her chair and her uncle continued. "Good luck with your first week. I would love to hear about it one evening."
"Good night, Uncle," Narnia responded and left the Headmaster's office. She walked back into the corridor and made her way to her quarters.
Narnia sat in the frame of her window, staring out over the grounds at Hogwarts. Dark had fallen, but the moon sat high in the night sky and softly lit the world below. Her outlook once again had brightened at the revelation of the reason for Snape's vindictive mood. She chuckled at the thought of it. It had not been personal, but something she shared with her predecessors. She doubted that she would take his attacks so seriously again. She would not take part in his charade and would refuse to offer any reply to his remark. It would be what he would want, for her to lash back. She had other worries on her mind and things to concentrate on without playing childish games with a grown man. Dumbledore's words played through her mind again. ".. suffered losses already..will suffer more..commitment to the Order could mean your life.." She couldn't help but think that somewhere, out there, Voldemort was lurking, waiting for his chance to strike. She would indeed have to keep close supervision on young Harry. She knew his story, as did the rest of the wizarding world, and thinking of all that he had faced troubled her. She knew what it was like growing up without her parents, but she had been lucky in having Gran. Harry hadn't even had that.
Narnia took one last sip of tea and fell into bed. Her day had been full and now it was over.