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Chapter 18
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"Severus, it's been a week since Sirius was captured. Surely you know what is happening." Dumbledore was reaching his wit's end. He knew Sirius was still being held captive, but no one except himself and Severus seemed to know anything about it. He was worried about the man. And he still didn't know how to inform Harry and Remus that their friend had been taken by Voldemort. He wanted to, but didn't think they needed the hysteria that would ensue.
"I don't know, sir. All I know is that he is alive and will be released sometime soon," Severus answered quietly. They were in the corridors and Albus knew his Potions Master disliked discussing these things in public, but he was anxious for an answer.
Severus walked slightly behind the Headmaster as they made their way to the Great Hall for the evening meal. It was his usual position and Albus could not get Severus to explain why. The younger wizard would either shrug or apologize and do nothing to change it. He suspected it was related to his odd desire to keep up formalities.
"Come, Severus. I have a feeling the house-elves have outdone themselves tonight," he said, steering away from the oppressive topic (not that Severus had any interest in tonight's menu). He found that if he stayed on that line of thought too long, Severus would blatantly ignore his requests.
They sat down in their seats, Dumbledore at the center and Snape to his left next to McGonagall. Normally Severus would have found his way to the end of the table in order to avoid all attempts at conversation, but tonight Albus hoped to discuss something of Voldemort's activities, among other topics relating to the Dark Lord and Ministry coverup. The dinner began, full of the sounds of the students' chatter, clinking of utensils, and other noises which always accompany a meal.
Barely ten minutes into the meal, the large double doors swung open for some uninvited guests. Ministry officials and Aurors marched down the center aisle to the staff table. There was a collective gasp and much whispering as the students wondered what was going on.
Dumbledore knew this little show held no joy for anyone at the school, and he had his suspicions as to why they were there. "Mr. Chouvlen," Dumbledore greeted as he rose. "What brings you here?" He might as well try to gain control of the situation before it got out of hand.
"You know very well why I am here, Headmaster Dumbledore," said the nondescript Minister of Internal Affairs. "I am here to take one of your staff in for questioning." Students as well as the staff listened closely and curiously, waiting to hear who. The silence was now overpowering as no one dared to whisper for fear of missing a word. This was hardly the place for the scene that would develop. He needed to move this conversation out of the Great Hall, but the large number of Aurors present would present a problem as Fudge had no doubt sent them to make a statement.
"I am certain you could have chosen a less public time and place for your assignment," Dumbledore mentioned in a less than friendly tone. He would not be rude to this man, but he could certainly show his dislike for the manner in which he conducted his dealings.
"Professor Dumbledore, I have just received the warrant and I intend to carry it out immediately." Chouvlen paused as he turned his attention to the other teachers at the staff table. One in particular. Dumbledore knew which one the minister was searching for and couldn't help but feel that he had failed.
"Mr. Chouvlen, perhaps we can discuss this in my office."
"Professor Dumbledore, your students have a right to know what their teachers are." Dumbledore felt his heart sink; he had wanted to keep this knowledge from the children, mainly for his own plans but also to keep as much hatred from entering the student/teacher relationships as possible. Some things were just not destined to be.
The whispering increased. Harry knew most of the students were thinking of Remus Lupin's being a werewolf. He knew, however, that this man was talking about a different professor. He suddenly wished he had never overheard Mr. Weasley.
"This is not the proper place, Mr. Chouvlen," the Headmaster reiterated.
The minister ignored the Headmaster and motioned the dozen Aurors to stand ready. "Severus Osiris Snape, you are wanted for questioning for the murder of retired Auror Arabella Figg." Harry was expecting another collective gasp of surprise, but there was only shocked silence. So much for Hogwarts' sense of melodrama.
Sparing a glance to the head table, he saw that McGonagall had placed a light restraining hand on Snape's shoulder. It was a good thing too, Snape himself looked furious, ready to hex the nearest Auror who got in his way along with every single ministry official idiotic enough to enforce that warrant. Even though it seemed as though McGonagall's hand would not stop the enraged wizard, it was enough to keep him aware of reality. "You will turn in your wand and come with us."
"I must protest. You have no evidence against Professor Snape." Dumbledore had an angry edge to his voice that Harry hadn't heard before.
"He is a Death Eater, Professor Dumbledore," Chouvlen said calmly. There were now many trails of whispers running down the House tables. Why were they doing this to Professor Snape? Remus had told him that someone from the Ministry would be coming to ask questions. Of course he had to explain how he had overheard Mr. Weasley discussing the matter with his wife, which hadn't been as awful as he had thought. At the time Harry had just assumed the Ministry would use the opportunity to question both Professors Lupin and Snape. This was entirely unfair.
"He was, Mr. Chouvlen. I know you are able to look up his last trial."
"That trial counts for nothing with these new uprisings. Snape will be coming with us."
Dumbledore looked ready to draw his wand when Professor Snape stood with enough force to knock over his chair, thus gaining the attention of the entire hall. The Aurors appeared ready to draw also, watching both Snape and Dumbledore for a reason, even a hint of a reason.
"There is no point in facilitating your removal as well, Headmaster," he said barely loud enough for Harry to hear. Dumbledore said nothing but looked to the former Death Eater in his charge as though he were mad.
"Will you come quietly, Snape, or do you intend to resist?" Chouvlen sounded almost pleased with the thought of fouling an attempt to resist.
There was a long moment of silence where Harry was certain Snape would have preferred to take on all twelve of the Aurors and the three Ministry officials rather than go quietly. Part of Harry was almost wanting the Potions Master to say, 'Don't be stupid, of course I intend to resist.' But logically Harry knew Snape would not do so in front of the entire school. The professor gave an unreadable look to his Slytherins and took a quick survey of the Great Hall before responding. "I will come quietly. I have no intentions of allowing you to use force in front of so many minors."
"Turn in your wand," Chouvlen said stretching out his hand to receive the weapon. The moment was suspended in time. Snape appeared to be calculating his choices. Finally he removed his wand from his sleeve. The tension in the air thickened as the Aurors prepared to disarm the professor should he decide to use his wand. Holding the piece of wood in the center and away from his body, Snape slowly brought it out and held it for McGonagall to take. The Gryffindor Head of House seemed perplexed for a moment before relieving Snape of the burden.
Snape walked around the staff table fully aware that all eyes were on him. Waiting for him to react violently. The stunned silence lasted even longer as the Aurors forcefully bound the professor's arms behind his back and shoved him out the door. Contrary to popularly held rumors, the student body did not jump for joy now that their most feared professor had been bodily removed from the school. They were all still in shock that he HAD be bodily removed. They had never suspected such an event would ever happen.
With a resounding thud, the shutting doors signaled a beginning to the wild whispers. Harry looked to the teachers for guidance. But even they were shocked by the night's proceedings, staring at the double doors as if they could will the Ministry to send back their lost teacher. The chatter dwindled as one by one the Slytherins stood, then in two solid lines walked out of the Hall in silent protest. That was the definition of House loyalty.
Murmurings that were rising at the disappearance of Slytherin House were squashed when most of the upper-class Ravenclaws followed. Close on their heels were a smattering of Hufflepuffs, all reputed to enjoy potions. But this wasn't just a protest of Snape's removal. Many of the Ravenclaws had no liking for potions or Snape. They were protesting the method of removal also. Harry agreed with that. The Ministry had no right to take a professor in front of his students, accuse him of things they knew were completely false, then treat him as though he had resisted arrest. The situation was appalling.
Harry stood and without a backward glance walked out of the Great Hall.
* * * * * * *
This couldn't be happening. Irvan watched the grim procession from the shadows. This just wasn't happening. There was no way Dumbledore would just let them take Severus. He knew what he had seen in the Headmaster's mind. The old man was very protective of those he cared about. And there was no mistaking the affection the old wizard felt for Severus. In other words, this could not be happening.
Irvan stayed until the Aurors disappeared from sight. Counting the number of 'accidental' bruises Severus received. Severus was going to Azkaban and there was nothing he could do about it. Talk about useless protection. He couldn't do anything because Severus told him not to. And he had not been thinking about the Ministry! Stupid! Irvan was ready to kick himself for not foreseeing this. Wasn't that Sybil's job? Why hadn't she mentioned anything to him? Sweet mother of Zeus, this just couldn't be happening.
And Dumbledore thought this didn't concern him. If he had not known this would happen, he would have tried to stop it. He needed to have a talk with Dumbledore. Mainly about how he should never have let this happen.
* * * * * * * *
"Yes, Minerva. I am aware that the entire Slytherin House is lacking guidance, but the main thing we need right now is a Potions professor. I am certain Sinistra won't mind taking up some of the Head of House's duties." Dumbledore tried to reason with the Gryffindor Head of House. He had never thought the Ministry would be so bold as to just come in and take the offending teacher. On all levels of courtesy that was wrong.
He leaned back in his chair, stroking his beard while deep in thought. He had called the remaining Heads to his office immediately following Snape's removal. He had needed to sort things out before he announced things to the students. He would have to wait until morning anyway, since a little over one-forth of the student body had retired to their common rooms. Their little display was not lost on him, but he doubted if it would do any good.
With Severus gone, they were short a talented professor and a mediator for the most troublesome House in Hogwarts. Where had he gone wrong in his discussions with Fudge? There was absolutely no need for them to come in acting as if they were conducting a raid. It was unlikely the students recognized it as such. He knew Severus had. If it weren't for Minerva things would have gotten bloody.
"Now, I'd like one of you to go down and see to the Slytherins and try to answer their questions as best you can," Dumbledore said quietly.
"Albus," Sprout began, "Those children have never listened to any of us. Only Severus. I don't think they'll be inclined to listen now that he is gone."
"I'm afraid that is true, but we must try." A knock on the door interrupted his speech. "Come in." The door swung open to reveal Irvan, looking slightly confused and angry. Both were emotions Dumbledore expected from the vampire. "Ah, Irvan, I was wondering when you would come," he sounded cheerful. But then Irvan was the answer to many of the difficulties they were facing.
"I'm sorry for intruding. I did not intend to interrupt," Irvan said.
"You're not, by any means. I have heard good things about you from the Slytherins. It appears they approve of you far more than they do Remus. And I was hoping you would not mind taking on some of Severus' duties while he is away."
Dumbledore felt a satisfaction at perplexing a vampire. "Pardon?"
"Albus, you can't be serious," Minerva echoed some of her previous sentiments towards this creature. "He is hardly a certified teacher." Dumbledore knew that only a voiced concern, her fears ran deeper. Including the children's safety.
"I know that, Minerva. But substitutes are not required to be certified." He could not answer her other concerns at the moment for the other two Heads did not know Irvan's secret.
"But as Head of House?" Flitwick brought up the next protest.
"I'm inclined to agree with them, Professor," Irvan stated, startling Sprout and Flitwick. They must have thought he was eager to take the job.
"Nonsense, you will do an excellent job." Dumbledore watched as the other Heads waited for Irvan's response. He knew none of them were keen on taking Severus' position and all knew that Irvan had faired exceptionally well with the Slytherins while filling in for Remus Lupin. All of them had heard the Slytherins discussing those particular lessons.
"Then I suppose I shall have to take you up on your offer," Irvan said slowly.
"Excellent. Now we just need a consensus on what and how to tell the children. I think talking to them tonight would be in order, as well as an official statement at breakfast." Everyone in the room nodded their consent and the discussion went to what had happened and what to tell the children about Severus' position as a Death Eater. The latter would cause no end of trouble.
* * * * * * * *
"Harry?" Ron was worried to say the least. He had no idea why his friend left the Great Hall so abruptly, along with Hermione, who had followed him. He wanted no part in a protest for Snape, but he needed to make sure Harry was all right, so he left a bit sooner than the mob. Harry had a habit of not saying anything when he was troubled. When Ron had mentioned the incident with Evan, Harry had simply shrugged it off, saying Evan wouldn't harm him in any way. That did little to ease Ron's thoughts on the matter. "Harry? Are you up here?"
"Over here, Ron," Harry called from a chair next to the fireplace.
"Why'd you leave so soon?" Ron asked. Hermione was sitting in a chair opposite Harry, reading. She looked up and waited for the explanation. Ron suspected she already knew what was going on but wanted Harry to tell them.
"What happened to Snape," Harry stated. "They had no right to do that."
"I don't see what the big deal is. What they did was perfectly legal."
"Ron, it's the principle of the thing," Hermione defended. "The fact that he was taken in front of the entire student body. You would think that they would have the sense to serve the warrant after dinner when Snape was in his office. At least they wouldn't have embarrassed him."
"But it's just Snape. That's how all raids are conducted."
"I don't care if it's just Snape," Harry declared. "He probably deserves to be questioned. But they didn't have to do that in front of us."
"Is that all that's bothering you? I thought you had eaten something funny."
"Ron!"
"What?"
"You just don't understand," Hermione sounded disgusted. She was right, however. Ron did not know why they cared so much about Snape's removal. It was a long time in coming, he thought.
"Ron," Harry's voice caught his attention. It was a steady patience. "I know you don't believe Snape is trustworthy, but Dumbledore thinks so. Most likely whatever he had planned for Snape is blown. I just don't agree with how they 'abducted' him. Don't you see how rude that was?"
"Well, I guess so," Ron didn't sound convinced. "But that's how it's done."
"I guess we'll just disagree on this."
Ron shrugged. He didn't understand why they were upset about the scene; that was how things were. Raids were conducted whenever the Ministry had the warrant, not for the convenience of the Death Eater or other lawbreaker. At least, that was what his father and Percy kept telling him. He didn't feel bad at all at watching Snape dragged out like a criminal.
Instead of trying to carry on a conversation, he sat across from his friends, thinking. And was interrupted when the whole of Gryffindor burst through the portrait hole.
"Did you see the look on his face? I thought he was going to hex them on the spot!"
"Is he really a Death Eater? Mom and Dad are going to freak when they hear about this."
"No kidding. Always knew he was evil, but that! What was Dumbledore thinking?"
"Do you think he's coming back?"
"Doubt it. My father told me that when the Ministry takes someone in they usually don't come back."
"Deserved it if you ask me."
"I'm surprised they took this long."
"Settle down, please," Professor McGonagall's voice rang out above the hubbub of accusations and questions. "May I have your attention, please. There are a few announcements I have to make regarding the raid you witnessed at dinner this evening." Suddenly all heads were turned in her direction. They might not be interested in the truth of things, but anything to keep the fires of rumor going.
"As I am sure you all know, Professor Snape has been taken in for questioning. The Headmaster believes for a fact that Professor Snape is innocent of the charges brought against him in the murder of Arabella Figg."
"Professor, is Professor Snape really a Death Eater?" someone interrupted. Many mumbled their mutual desire to have that question answered.
"He was tried and acquitted on Headmaster Dumbledore's vouch after You-Know-Who's first fall. As far as I know he has not made any contact with him this time around, So it is safe to assume he is no longer in You-Know-Who's service."
"What about potions?"
"That position will be announced at breakfast tomorrow." She paused as if waiting for more interruptions.
"How long will Professor Snape be gone?"
"We do not know, but Professor Dumbledore is in communication with the Ministry and is trying to make Professor Snape's time being held as short as possible."
"Is he in Azkaban?"
"Very likely." The mood in the room became suddenly morose. They all remembered Hagrid's brief stay there. "Any further questions?" No one spoke. "Now I am certain I don't need to tell you how serious all of this is. When you write home, I don't want any of you telling half truths. I am perfectly aware that most of you dislike Professor Snape, but failure to inform your parents of his acquittal will serve no purpose. I will be sending home letters informing your parents of this evening's proceedings. Now, if there is nothing further, I bid you goodnight."
* * * * * * * *
"Professor Irvan! What are you doing here?" Draco looked up as the Head Boy directed everyone's attention to the intruder. Though they all agreed that Irvan was less of an intruder than any of the other professors.
"Brentwood, correct?" Irvan asked in his characteristic flowing tone.
"Yes, sir, but what are you doing here?"
"I suppose there is no point in my delaying this announcement. Headmaster Dumbledore has requested that I take up the position of Head of Slytherin until Professor Snape returns."
"So he will return?"
"Are you teaching potions, too?"
Professor Irvan raised a hand for silence and received it. Draco doubted if the room would listen to anyone other than Snape and now Irvan. "As far as I know he will return, seeing as how he had no part in the murder of Arabella Figg. And yes, I will also be teaching potions in Professor Snape's absence."
"So he's innocent."
"For that charge, yes."
"Does that mean he is a Death Eater?"
"He was tried and acquitted after Dumbledore vouched for him."
"So you don't know if he is or isn't."
"I am not allowed to go into his present position, but as far as I know he is not."
"You're just repeating back to us what Dumbledore told you to say," Draco announced.
"Correct." At least the man won't lie to us, Draco thought. "Dumbledore thought it best if every student was given the same information. Which I believe is a good idea, as there will no doubt be reporters flooding the grounds by morning. It wouldn't do for students to be spreading rumors."
"What are they going to do to him, Professor," a small first year girl asked quietly. Draco knew what was going to happen, as did most of the rest of the House. They knew because this had happened to someone in their family. Being in the House termed the Dark Lord's Breeding Ground led to such accusations.
"They are going to take him to Azkaban, and there the Aurors are going to ask him what he knows about the circumstances surrounding Arabella Figg's death, and probably ask him about several other things that have nothing to do with Figg." Professor Irvan sounded extremely calm as he told the girl this. He was purposely ignoring the part where the Aurors try to beat the information they want out of their prisoner. And how interrogations were an ugly sight for those who were innocent but believed to be guilty. And how the Aurors would attempt to find any way possible to make the prisoner guilty of something.
The somber mood deepened as they processed this information.
"But Professor Snape didn't do anything," the girl protested, slightly louder this time. Draco thought her name was Fandrom. He wouldn't even try to guess her first name. "He did everything they asked him to, and they still acted like he was going to kill them."
"I'm afraid, Nautica, that that is how Auror raids are conducted. They came in thinking Professor Snape would retaliate and left thinking the same thing. I do not doubt that the official word will be that Professor Snape did retaliate."
"But that's unfair!"
"And that's why you walked out during dinner."
"Hey," a sixth year, Justin Moor, called from the window holding a letter. "My younger sister in Ravenclaw just wrote saying once we left half of her house followed! So did some Hufflepuffs; the ones who like potions. But get this, out of the very few Gryffindors to leave, one was Harry Potter!"
"Potter! Why would he walk out?"
"Everyone knows he hates the Professor. And I know for a fact that the feeling's mutual."
"Are you sure he didn't just eat something bad?"
"Probably got a headache. You know, the ones that supposedly come from his scar."
Draco sat confused. Potter walked out? Why would he do that? And while Draco hated the Boy-Who-Lived vehemently, he wasn't stupid enough to believe Potter left just because of his scar. If that were the case, he would have gone directly to Dumbledore. No, he was quite certain Potter walked out in protest, even if his friends didn't. But why did Potter feel so strongly about the removal of Professor Snape?
"Er, Professor," Brentwood was speaking again. "I think we should inform you that none of us intend to go to dinner until Professor Snape is returned. Part of the protest, we decided."
"Perfectly understandable. I'll go talk with the house-elves and see if they would send dinner to the common room instead of the Slytherin table."
"You mean you're not going to go to Dumbledore first?"
"I don't see why I should. This is your protest. And while I agree with you wholeheartedly, I have a feeling Dumbledore might force you to come to dinner. I doubt he would approve of providing dinner in the common room."
"Do you think it will work?"
"No way to know but to try. Anything else you wish to discuss?"
"No, Professor. See you in the morning."
* * * * * * * * *
Dumbledore was siting behind his desk, trying to find a way to release Severus Snape when something pecked at his window. Absently he waved his wand to allow the owl in. It didn't really occur to him that it was a little late for mail.
The bird landed directly on his paperwork, rudely demanding attention. Dumbledore looked up and immediately recognized Severus' raven. The bird was hardly ever used to deliver mail, so to say the least he was surprised. "Good evening, Olin. What have you brought me today?" he asked the sleek black bird. Olin carried thick parchment in his beak and neatly dropped in the Headmaster's hand before flying off again. "Yes, I suppose it is bedtime," he mused as he watched the Olin disappear into the night.
He cracked the serpent seal.
~ Professor Dumbledore,
The following pages include a confession of sorts. It contains what I have been unable to tell you for the past week, due in part to the interrupting owl that forever appears right before I can explain. If you are reading this it means I have left for an unknown amount of time and Olin thought it best to bring this to you. If Irvan is correct, I am on my way to Azkaban because the Ministry saw fit to remove me. Though I have to question if that is his prediction or Trelawney's. For all of his dislike of the witch, it seems she might be helpful in curing Potter of his visions.
First of all let me repeat my belief that Sirius Black will be released at some point soon and returned to you. When I last left, he was alive if forgetful. I am sorry to say that the loss of memory is due to a potion I created. And that potion when combined with a specific curse will render the victim thoughtless, without comprehension of what he is doing. I told you I thought Black would be used in a trap, and I believe this is how it will be done, whatever they decide. ~
Dumbledore stopped in his reading. He stopped because he couldn't grasp the fact that what was happening to Sirius was a direct result of Severus' actions. Why hadn't Severus told him sooner? He was trying to squash the feeling of betrayal as he continued reading. No matter what Severus had to say, he would not jump to conclusions based on just two paragraphs. But he wanted to, so badly.
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And here's recognition for my beta, The Goddess Artemis.
And a great many 'Thank you's to all over the readers for making it this far. As much as I can, I'll get done before book 5 is out.
Chapter 18
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"Severus, it's been a week since Sirius was captured. Surely you know what is happening." Dumbledore was reaching his wit's end. He knew Sirius was still being held captive, but no one except himself and Severus seemed to know anything about it. He was worried about the man. And he still didn't know how to inform Harry and Remus that their friend had been taken by Voldemort. He wanted to, but didn't think they needed the hysteria that would ensue.
"I don't know, sir. All I know is that he is alive and will be released sometime soon," Severus answered quietly. They were in the corridors and Albus knew his Potions Master disliked discussing these things in public, but he was anxious for an answer.
Severus walked slightly behind the Headmaster as they made their way to the Great Hall for the evening meal. It was his usual position and Albus could not get Severus to explain why. The younger wizard would either shrug or apologize and do nothing to change it. He suspected it was related to his odd desire to keep up formalities.
"Come, Severus. I have a feeling the house-elves have outdone themselves tonight," he said, steering away from the oppressive topic (not that Severus had any interest in tonight's menu). He found that if he stayed on that line of thought too long, Severus would blatantly ignore his requests.
They sat down in their seats, Dumbledore at the center and Snape to his left next to McGonagall. Normally Severus would have found his way to the end of the table in order to avoid all attempts at conversation, but tonight Albus hoped to discuss something of Voldemort's activities, among other topics relating to the Dark Lord and Ministry coverup. The dinner began, full of the sounds of the students' chatter, clinking of utensils, and other noises which always accompany a meal.
Barely ten minutes into the meal, the large double doors swung open for some uninvited guests. Ministry officials and Aurors marched down the center aisle to the staff table. There was a collective gasp and much whispering as the students wondered what was going on.
Dumbledore knew this little show held no joy for anyone at the school, and he had his suspicions as to why they were there. "Mr. Chouvlen," Dumbledore greeted as he rose. "What brings you here?" He might as well try to gain control of the situation before it got out of hand.
"You know very well why I am here, Headmaster Dumbledore," said the nondescript Minister of Internal Affairs. "I am here to take one of your staff in for questioning." Students as well as the staff listened closely and curiously, waiting to hear who. The silence was now overpowering as no one dared to whisper for fear of missing a word. This was hardly the place for the scene that would develop. He needed to move this conversation out of the Great Hall, but the large number of Aurors present would present a problem as Fudge had no doubt sent them to make a statement.
"I am certain you could have chosen a less public time and place for your assignment," Dumbledore mentioned in a less than friendly tone. He would not be rude to this man, but he could certainly show his dislike for the manner in which he conducted his dealings.
"Professor Dumbledore, I have just received the warrant and I intend to carry it out immediately." Chouvlen paused as he turned his attention to the other teachers at the staff table. One in particular. Dumbledore knew which one the minister was searching for and couldn't help but feel that he had failed.
"Mr. Chouvlen, perhaps we can discuss this in my office."
"Professor Dumbledore, your students have a right to know what their teachers are." Dumbledore felt his heart sink; he had wanted to keep this knowledge from the children, mainly for his own plans but also to keep as much hatred from entering the student/teacher relationships as possible. Some things were just not destined to be.
The whispering increased. Harry knew most of the students were thinking of Remus Lupin's being a werewolf. He knew, however, that this man was talking about a different professor. He suddenly wished he had never overheard Mr. Weasley.
"This is not the proper place, Mr. Chouvlen," the Headmaster reiterated.
The minister ignored the Headmaster and motioned the dozen Aurors to stand ready. "Severus Osiris Snape, you are wanted for questioning for the murder of retired Auror Arabella Figg." Harry was expecting another collective gasp of surprise, but there was only shocked silence. So much for Hogwarts' sense of melodrama.
Sparing a glance to the head table, he saw that McGonagall had placed a light restraining hand on Snape's shoulder. It was a good thing too, Snape himself looked furious, ready to hex the nearest Auror who got in his way along with every single ministry official idiotic enough to enforce that warrant. Even though it seemed as though McGonagall's hand would not stop the enraged wizard, it was enough to keep him aware of reality. "You will turn in your wand and come with us."
"I must protest. You have no evidence against Professor Snape." Dumbledore had an angry edge to his voice that Harry hadn't heard before.
"He is a Death Eater, Professor Dumbledore," Chouvlen said calmly. There were now many trails of whispers running down the House tables. Why were they doing this to Professor Snape? Remus had told him that someone from the Ministry would be coming to ask questions. Of course he had to explain how he had overheard Mr. Weasley discussing the matter with his wife, which hadn't been as awful as he had thought. At the time Harry had just assumed the Ministry would use the opportunity to question both Professors Lupin and Snape. This was entirely unfair.
"He was, Mr. Chouvlen. I know you are able to look up his last trial."
"That trial counts for nothing with these new uprisings. Snape will be coming with us."
Dumbledore looked ready to draw his wand when Professor Snape stood with enough force to knock over his chair, thus gaining the attention of the entire hall. The Aurors appeared ready to draw also, watching both Snape and Dumbledore for a reason, even a hint of a reason.
"There is no point in facilitating your removal as well, Headmaster," he said barely loud enough for Harry to hear. Dumbledore said nothing but looked to the former Death Eater in his charge as though he were mad.
"Will you come quietly, Snape, or do you intend to resist?" Chouvlen sounded almost pleased with the thought of fouling an attempt to resist.
There was a long moment of silence where Harry was certain Snape would have preferred to take on all twelve of the Aurors and the three Ministry officials rather than go quietly. Part of Harry was almost wanting the Potions Master to say, 'Don't be stupid, of course I intend to resist.' But logically Harry knew Snape would not do so in front of the entire school. The professor gave an unreadable look to his Slytherins and took a quick survey of the Great Hall before responding. "I will come quietly. I have no intentions of allowing you to use force in front of so many minors."
"Turn in your wand," Chouvlen said stretching out his hand to receive the weapon. The moment was suspended in time. Snape appeared to be calculating his choices. Finally he removed his wand from his sleeve. The tension in the air thickened as the Aurors prepared to disarm the professor should he decide to use his wand. Holding the piece of wood in the center and away from his body, Snape slowly brought it out and held it for McGonagall to take. The Gryffindor Head of House seemed perplexed for a moment before relieving Snape of the burden.
Snape walked around the staff table fully aware that all eyes were on him. Waiting for him to react violently. The stunned silence lasted even longer as the Aurors forcefully bound the professor's arms behind his back and shoved him out the door. Contrary to popularly held rumors, the student body did not jump for joy now that their most feared professor had been bodily removed from the school. They were all still in shock that he HAD be bodily removed. They had never suspected such an event would ever happen.
With a resounding thud, the shutting doors signaled a beginning to the wild whispers. Harry looked to the teachers for guidance. But even they were shocked by the night's proceedings, staring at the double doors as if they could will the Ministry to send back their lost teacher. The chatter dwindled as one by one the Slytherins stood, then in two solid lines walked out of the Hall in silent protest. That was the definition of House loyalty.
Murmurings that were rising at the disappearance of Slytherin House were squashed when most of the upper-class Ravenclaws followed. Close on their heels were a smattering of Hufflepuffs, all reputed to enjoy potions. But this wasn't just a protest of Snape's removal. Many of the Ravenclaws had no liking for potions or Snape. They were protesting the method of removal also. Harry agreed with that. The Ministry had no right to take a professor in front of his students, accuse him of things they knew were completely false, then treat him as though he had resisted arrest. The situation was appalling.
Harry stood and without a backward glance walked out of the Great Hall.
* * * * * * *
This couldn't be happening. Irvan watched the grim procession from the shadows. This just wasn't happening. There was no way Dumbledore would just let them take Severus. He knew what he had seen in the Headmaster's mind. The old man was very protective of those he cared about. And there was no mistaking the affection the old wizard felt for Severus. In other words, this could not be happening.
Irvan stayed until the Aurors disappeared from sight. Counting the number of 'accidental' bruises Severus received. Severus was going to Azkaban and there was nothing he could do about it. Talk about useless protection. He couldn't do anything because Severus told him not to. And he had not been thinking about the Ministry! Stupid! Irvan was ready to kick himself for not foreseeing this. Wasn't that Sybil's job? Why hadn't she mentioned anything to him? Sweet mother of Zeus, this just couldn't be happening.
And Dumbledore thought this didn't concern him. If he had not known this would happen, he would have tried to stop it. He needed to have a talk with Dumbledore. Mainly about how he should never have let this happen.
* * * * * * * *
"Yes, Minerva. I am aware that the entire Slytherin House is lacking guidance, but the main thing we need right now is a Potions professor. I am certain Sinistra won't mind taking up some of the Head of House's duties." Dumbledore tried to reason with the Gryffindor Head of House. He had never thought the Ministry would be so bold as to just come in and take the offending teacher. On all levels of courtesy that was wrong.
He leaned back in his chair, stroking his beard while deep in thought. He had called the remaining Heads to his office immediately following Snape's removal. He had needed to sort things out before he announced things to the students. He would have to wait until morning anyway, since a little over one-forth of the student body had retired to their common rooms. Their little display was not lost on him, but he doubted if it would do any good.
With Severus gone, they were short a talented professor and a mediator for the most troublesome House in Hogwarts. Where had he gone wrong in his discussions with Fudge? There was absolutely no need for them to come in acting as if they were conducting a raid. It was unlikely the students recognized it as such. He knew Severus had. If it weren't for Minerva things would have gotten bloody.
"Now, I'd like one of you to go down and see to the Slytherins and try to answer their questions as best you can," Dumbledore said quietly.
"Albus," Sprout began, "Those children have never listened to any of us. Only Severus. I don't think they'll be inclined to listen now that he is gone."
"I'm afraid that is true, but we must try." A knock on the door interrupted his speech. "Come in." The door swung open to reveal Irvan, looking slightly confused and angry. Both were emotions Dumbledore expected from the vampire. "Ah, Irvan, I was wondering when you would come," he sounded cheerful. But then Irvan was the answer to many of the difficulties they were facing.
"I'm sorry for intruding. I did not intend to interrupt," Irvan said.
"You're not, by any means. I have heard good things about you from the Slytherins. It appears they approve of you far more than they do Remus. And I was hoping you would not mind taking on some of Severus' duties while he is away."
Dumbledore felt a satisfaction at perplexing a vampire. "Pardon?"
"Albus, you can't be serious," Minerva echoed some of her previous sentiments towards this creature. "He is hardly a certified teacher." Dumbledore knew that only a voiced concern, her fears ran deeper. Including the children's safety.
"I know that, Minerva. But substitutes are not required to be certified." He could not answer her other concerns at the moment for the other two Heads did not know Irvan's secret.
"But as Head of House?" Flitwick brought up the next protest.
"I'm inclined to agree with them, Professor," Irvan stated, startling Sprout and Flitwick. They must have thought he was eager to take the job.
"Nonsense, you will do an excellent job." Dumbledore watched as the other Heads waited for Irvan's response. He knew none of them were keen on taking Severus' position and all knew that Irvan had faired exceptionally well with the Slytherins while filling in for Remus Lupin. All of them had heard the Slytherins discussing those particular lessons.
"Then I suppose I shall have to take you up on your offer," Irvan said slowly.
"Excellent. Now we just need a consensus on what and how to tell the children. I think talking to them tonight would be in order, as well as an official statement at breakfast." Everyone in the room nodded their consent and the discussion went to what had happened and what to tell the children about Severus' position as a Death Eater. The latter would cause no end of trouble.
* * * * * * * *
"Harry?" Ron was worried to say the least. He had no idea why his friend left the Great Hall so abruptly, along with Hermione, who had followed him. He wanted no part in a protest for Snape, but he needed to make sure Harry was all right, so he left a bit sooner than the mob. Harry had a habit of not saying anything when he was troubled. When Ron had mentioned the incident with Evan, Harry had simply shrugged it off, saying Evan wouldn't harm him in any way. That did little to ease Ron's thoughts on the matter. "Harry? Are you up here?"
"Over here, Ron," Harry called from a chair next to the fireplace.
"Why'd you leave so soon?" Ron asked. Hermione was sitting in a chair opposite Harry, reading. She looked up and waited for the explanation. Ron suspected she already knew what was going on but wanted Harry to tell them.
"What happened to Snape," Harry stated. "They had no right to do that."
"I don't see what the big deal is. What they did was perfectly legal."
"Ron, it's the principle of the thing," Hermione defended. "The fact that he was taken in front of the entire student body. You would think that they would have the sense to serve the warrant after dinner when Snape was in his office. At least they wouldn't have embarrassed him."
"But it's just Snape. That's how all raids are conducted."
"I don't care if it's just Snape," Harry declared. "He probably deserves to be questioned. But they didn't have to do that in front of us."
"Is that all that's bothering you? I thought you had eaten something funny."
"Ron!"
"What?"
"You just don't understand," Hermione sounded disgusted. She was right, however. Ron did not know why they cared so much about Snape's removal. It was a long time in coming, he thought.
"Ron," Harry's voice caught his attention. It was a steady patience. "I know you don't believe Snape is trustworthy, but Dumbledore thinks so. Most likely whatever he had planned for Snape is blown. I just don't agree with how they 'abducted' him. Don't you see how rude that was?"
"Well, I guess so," Ron didn't sound convinced. "But that's how it's done."
"I guess we'll just disagree on this."
Ron shrugged. He didn't understand why they were upset about the scene; that was how things were. Raids were conducted whenever the Ministry had the warrant, not for the convenience of the Death Eater or other lawbreaker. At least, that was what his father and Percy kept telling him. He didn't feel bad at all at watching Snape dragged out like a criminal.
Instead of trying to carry on a conversation, he sat across from his friends, thinking. And was interrupted when the whole of Gryffindor burst through the portrait hole.
"Did you see the look on his face? I thought he was going to hex them on the spot!"
"Is he really a Death Eater? Mom and Dad are going to freak when they hear about this."
"No kidding. Always knew he was evil, but that! What was Dumbledore thinking?"
"Do you think he's coming back?"
"Doubt it. My father told me that when the Ministry takes someone in they usually don't come back."
"Deserved it if you ask me."
"I'm surprised they took this long."
"Settle down, please," Professor McGonagall's voice rang out above the hubbub of accusations and questions. "May I have your attention, please. There are a few announcements I have to make regarding the raid you witnessed at dinner this evening." Suddenly all heads were turned in her direction. They might not be interested in the truth of things, but anything to keep the fires of rumor going.
"As I am sure you all know, Professor Snape has been taken in for questioning. The Headmaster believes for a fact that Professor Snape is innocent of the charges brought against him in the murder of Arabella Figg."
"Professor, is Professor Snape really a Death Eater?" someone interrupted. Many mumbled their mutual desire to have that question answered.
"He was tried and acquitted on Headmaster Dumbledore's vouch after You-Know-Who's first fall. As far as I know he has not made any contact with him this time around, So it is safe to assume he is no longer in You-Know-Who's service."
"What about potions?"
"That position will be announced at breakfast tomorrow." She paused as if waiting for more interruptions.
"How long will Professor Snape be gone?"
"We do not know, but Professor Dumbledore is in communication with the Ministry and is trying to make Professor Snape's time being held as short as possible."
"Is he in Azkaban?"
"Very likely." The mood in the room became suddenly morose. They all remembered Hagrid's brief stay there. "Any further questions?" No one spoke. "Now I am certain I don't need to tell you how serious all of this is. When you write home, I don't want any of you telling half truths. I am perfectly aware that most of you dislike Professor Snape, but failure to inform your parents of his acquittal will serve no purpose. I will be sending home letters informing your parents of this evening's proceedings. Now, if there is nothing further, I bid you goodnight."
* * * * * * * *
"Professor Irvan! What are you doing here?" Draco looked up as the Head Boy directed everyone's attention to the intruder. Though they all agreed that Irvan was less of an intruder than any of the other professors.
"Brentwood, correct?" Irvan asked in his characteristic flowing tone.
"Yes, sir, but what are you doing here?"
"I suppose there is no point in my delaying this announcement. Headmaster Dumbledore has requested that I take up the position of Head of Slytherin until Professor Snape returns."
"So he will return?"
"Are you teaching potions, too?"
Professor Irvan raised a hand for silence and received it. Draco doubted if the room would listen to anyone other than Snape and now Irvan. "As far as I know he will return, seeing as how he had no part in the murder of Arabella Figg. And yes, I will also be teaching potions in Professor Snape's absence."
"So he's innocent."
"For that charge, yes."
"Does that mean he is a Death Eater?"
"He was tried and acquitted after Dumbledore vouched for him."
"So you don't know if he is or isn't."
"I am not allowed to go into his present position, but as far as I know he is not."
"You're just repeating back to us what Dumbledore told you to say," Draco announced.
"Correct." At least the man won't lie to us, Draco thought. "Dumbledore thought it best if every student was given the same information. Which I believe is a good idea, as there will no doubt be reporters flooding the grounds by morning. It wouldn't do for students to be spreading rumors."
"What are they going to do to him, Professor," a small first year girl asked quietly. Draco knew what was going to happen, as did most of the rest of the House. They knew because this had happened to someone in their family. Being in the House termed the Dark Lord's Breeding Ground led to such accusations.
"They are going to take him to Azkaban, and there the Aurors are going to ask him what he knows about the circumstances surrounding Arabella Figg's death, and probably ask him about several other things that have nothing to do with Figg." Professor Irvan sounded extremely calm as he told the girl this. He was purposely ignoring the part where the Aurors try to beat the information they want out of their prisoner. And how interrogations were an ugly sight for those who were innocent but believed to be guilty. And how the Aurors would attempt to find any way possible to make the prisoner guilty of something.
The somber mood deepened as they processed this information.
"But Professor Snape didn't do anything," the girl protested, slightly louder this time. Draco thought her name was Fandrom. He wouldn't even try to guess her first name. "He did everything they asked him to, and they still acted like he was going to kill them."
"I'm afraid, Nautica, that that is how Auror raids are conducted. They came in thinking Professor Snape would retaliate and left thinking the same thing. I do not doubt that the official word will be that Professor Snape did retaliate."
"But that's unfair!"
"And that's why you walked out during dinner."
"Hey," a sixth year, Justin Moor, called from the window holding a letter. "My younger sister in Ravenclaw just wrote saying once we left half of her house followed! So did some Hufflepuffs; the ones who like potions. But get this, out of the very few Gryffindors to leave, one was Harry Potter!"
"Potter! Why would he walk out?"
"Everyone knows he hates the Professor. And I know for a fact that the feeling's mutual."
"Are you sure he didn't just eat something bad?"
"Probably got a headache. You know, the ones that supposedly come from his scar."
Draco sat confused. Potter walked out? Why would he do that? And while Draco hated the Boy-Who-Lived vehemently, he wasn't stupid enough to believe Potter left just because of his scar. If that were the case, he would have gone directly to Dumbledore. No, he was quite certain Potter walked out in protest, even if his friends didn't. But why did Potter feel so strongly about the removal of Professor Snape?
"Er, Professor," Brentwood was speaking again. "I think we should inform you that none of us intend to go to dinner until Professor Snape is returned. Part of the protest, we decided."
"Perfectly understandable. I'll go talk with the house-elves and see if they would send dinner to the common room instead of the Slytherin table."
"You mean you're not going to go to Dumbledore first?"
"I don't see why I should. This is your protest. And while I agree with you wholeheartedly, I have a feeling Dumbledore might force you to come to dinner. I doubt he would approve of providing dinner in the common room."
"Do you think it will work?"
"No way to know but to try. Anything else you wish to discuss?"
"No, Professor. See you in the morning."
* * * * * * * * *
Dumbledore was siting behind his desk, trying to find a way to release Severus Snape when something pecked at his window. Absently he waved his wand to allow the owl in. It didn't really occur to him that it was a little late for mail.
The bird landed directly on his paperwork, rudely demanding attention. Dumbledore looked up and immediately recognized Severus' raven. The bird was hardly ever used to deliver mail, so to say the least he was surprised. "Good evening, Olin. What have you brought me today?" he asked the sleek black bird. Olin carried thick parchment in his beak and neatly dropped in the Headmaster's hand before flying off again. "Yes, I suppose it is bedtime," he mused as he watched the Olin disappear into the night.
He cracked the serpent seal.
~ Professor Dumbledore,
The following pages include a confession of sorts. It contains what I have been unable to tell you for the past week, due in part to the interrupting owl that forever appears right before I can explain. If you are reading this it means I have left for an unknown amount of time and Olin thought it best to bring this to you. If Irvan is correct, I am on my way to Azkaban because the Ministry saw fit to remove me. Though I have to question if that is his prediction or Trelawney's. For all of his dislike of the witch, it seems she might be helpful in curing Potter of his visions.
First of all let me repeat my belief that Sirius Black will be released at some point soon and returned to you. When I last left, he was alive if forgetful. I am sorry to say that the loss of memory is due to a potion I created. And that potion when combined with a specific curse will render the victim thoughtless, without comprehension of what he is doing. I told you I thought Black would be used in a trap, and I believe this is how it will be done, whatever they decide. ~
Dumbledore stopped in his reading. He stopped because he couldn't grasp the fact that what was happening to Sirius was a direct result of Severus' actions. Why hadn't Severus told him sooner? He was trying to squash the feeling of betrayal as he continued reading. No matter what Severus had to say, he would not jump to conclusions based on just two paragraphs. But he wanted to, so badly.
_________________________________________
And here's recognition for my beta, The Goddess Artemis.
And a great many 'Thank you's to all over the readers for making it this far. As much as I can, I'll get done before book 5 is out.