Chapter 19
Darkness and Light
Harry and Ginny went down to dinner along with Ron and Hermione chatting along the way.
"Harry what is going to be our first lesson tonight?" asked Hermione.
The other three looked at Harry expectantly awaiting his answer. Harry just said, "For tonight it wont be too much, just a course outline and some practice on spells you should already know."
They nodded and Ron said, "I can't wait mate. Your classes are the best in the whole school," Ron said grinning.
The four friends sat down and Gryffindor table and were about to eat when Dumbledore stood up and said, "If I may have your attention please. I would like to remind you that Mr. Potter's class practical combat dueling will take place tonight at 7:30. In the room of requirement. This class is open to the entire school and I encourage you all to attend. Please give Mr. Potter your utmost attention and respect during his instruction."
Dumbledore signaled them to begin eating and sat down. Ginny looked up at Harry and asked," Are nervous about tonight?"
Harry said "Kind of. It was a little bit different last year when we are trying to keep it secret. But now to have to actually be teaching people; knowing that these skills may mean life or death for them is a bit disconcerting."
Ginny nodded knowingly and said "Well try not to worry about it too much you'll do fine."
Harry just smiled at her reassuring words and began to eat. Ron on the other hand must have been very hungry; he ate three times as much, three- time three times as loudly as the others did. Finally, giving a satisfied belch that brought him looks of disdain from Ginny and Hermione Ron sat back and sighed and contentment.
"Honestly Ron, Hermione said when will you ever learn manners!"
Ginny just laughed and said "you're too late Hermione hes a lost cause."
The rest of dinner concluded peacefully and Harry turned Hermione and asked, "We're you able to get a hold of the rest of the old DA members?"
Hermione just nodded replied " Yes they will be there 15 minutes early just like you asked."
Harry nodded at that and said "Well lets make our way up to the room and get ready for everyone else."
As they were leaving the Great hall, they did not notice a silent figure stalking them from shadow to shadow. After making the customary three passes in front of the room it opened for them and Harry converted it to its former state last year with cushions and added a large dueling platform in the center.
"There said Harry it should about do it can you guys think of anything else."
The other three shook their heads and said "no." All right said Harry lets wait on the others to arrive. After about 10 minutes Neville, Luna, Dean, and Seamus entered.
"Hey Harry," said Neville smiling.
Looking at his watch Harry asked " Dean this all that are coming from last year?"
Dean answered" so far we are the only ones left from last year that want to continue."
Harry looked at them and said "the reason I called you guys here early is because I expect we will have a lot more students now that we can hold this class publicly. I wanted you guys to help some of the other students as I expect it a lot of first and second years."
Neville looked shocked and said "even me Harry?"
Harry just smiled at his friend and said "even you Neville. You improved a lot last year, more than you know."
Neville just smiled shyly at his friend and took a seat along with everyone else that was gathered. Soon enough other students started to filter and by the time Harry was ready to close the door about 25 people had come. Harry was surprised to see to slithering first years as well. Taking this is a sign of hope Harry jumped in and began the class.
Taking the podium it suddenly appeared in the middle of the room Harry said, "Good evening everyone glad you could make it. To start with, I'll go over little the course outline and what we hope to learn in the coming year. As you know with the return of Voldemort Defense against the dark arts has become very important class."
Many of the students winced at the name of Voldemort. Harry noticing this continued on "we need as wizards not only the ability to defend ourselves but also we need to know how to attack. Some spells we learn in charms class but for the most part they are simple day-to-day charms and not entirely useful in combat. My task in your goal is to learn curses and hexes that will disable your opponent giving you time either to get away or to capture them."
A small boy in the back of the class raised his hand "Ummm Harry Potter sir?"
Harry seeing the raised hand said "Yes err........"
"James Wilks" the student supplied.
Harry nodded and said "very well James your question?"
James Wilkes continued "sir as a first-year I know very few spells will we be able to keep up with the rest of the class?"
Harry nodded at him and said "it will be difficult for you at first but I have enlisted the aid of some of the other members of the club that attended last year. They will help to tutor you in your subjects and in the class here. I know it's difficult to practice spells that we learn in other rooms of the castle so I'm going to leave the room of requirement open to all members of this class."
Many faces in the class brightened at the prospect of being able to practice their spells more. Harry taking one more look at the class stated gravely "last year the sorting hat told us we needed to unite or crumble from within. I want you to tell your friends and anyone else you think you can trust come to this class and join us to learn. Dark times are coming and we need to be prepared for war."
Continuing on Harry said, "think of your family and your friends. Think of the people you don't even know you may think your part to play is a small one. But if you can save a single life, even your own life then I have done my job and you have done yours."
The students sat quietly for minute all looking at Harry with the utmost respect. Resolve and determination appeared on the faces of many. Harry noticing this knew it was time to start teaching.
Harry looked over Hermione and said "Hermione would you mind taking the first years through the third years and going over basic shield spells with them."
Hermione nodded and gestured for those groups to follow her. Harry continued, " For the rest of you we will spend today's lesson going over casting a Patronus."
Harry went over the basic spell with the class and split them into groups of those who could cast the charm and those who could not for practice. Things are going very well but soon enough it was time to in the class for the evening and Harry took the podium once again and addressed them.
"Well done this evening everyone remember what I said about coming back your practice that will be the only homework you ever get from this class. Practice, practice, practice. You see Harry said your magic is like a Muscle the more you use it the stronger gets so come back here to this room and practice all you can. Class dismissed."
After everyone had left Ginny would stay behind him up the Harry and said "excellent class tonight Harry I can't wait for next time."
Harry replied, "hopefully everyone will be caught up soon and we can get down to the business of real training."
Ginny nodded and said "what you expect to do it more people start coming next week in the week after that and such?"
Harry replied "well, for get enough I'll have to split classes by years and do it like that."
Ginny replied " well don't overdo it, you only have so much time for your own studies you know."
Harry took her hand and let her to Gryffindor tower. After seeing her to the common room, Harry bid her goodnight and made his way back to his own chambers. He had arrived in the middle of what apparently looked like a fight between Fawkes and Godric.
Harry looked between the two and said "Gramps? Is there a problem?"
Looking slightly miffed Godric responded " No, no problem here Harry just that this old flying turkey has to argue and Pick apart everything I say."
Harry looking intrigued asked, " What were you two arguing about?"
Godric just replied "Oh this and that it doesn't really matter, point is that this old bird always has to have the last word no matter what. He's always been like that."
Harry just smiled and said "well if you two could keep it down to a dull roar I'd appreciate it because I'm going to sleep."
Without waiting for an answer, Harry turned and went into his chambers and went to bed.
Later that evening in the Slytherin common room Draco Malfoy threw, his new invisibility cloak over his shoulders and made his way to the Owlry. He had a very interesting report to send to Voldemort.
Early the next morning Harry awoke early and decided to begin, phase two of construction on his new prison. He had been thinking of many different names to call it and had finally decided upon 'Sheol'. After waking Godric and consulting the spell book the Godric had given him, Harry cast the next set of enchantments. Keying himself to the mirror Harry opened it and looked inside. Looking around the land was flat as far as the eye could see and the sky gave off the eerie red glow of twilight. Harry nodded in satisfaction knowing now he only had to add creation and replenishment spells necessary to open the prison fully.
Harry met his friends for breakfast usual and made his way to potions with Hermione. After going and and taking their seats Snape appeared and informed them that today they would be working on the potion of Extension. Looking around Snape asked, "Who can tell me what this potion does."
Hermione raised her hand along with Malfoy. "Mr. Malfoy" Snape called on him. Malfoy responded with a sneer that the potion was designed to enhance the normal senses.
Snape nodded and continued" today we will be brewing this potion for the Aurors but be warned improperly brewing this potion will cause the user to LOSE all those same said senses. BEGIN! He barked."
Harry had already turned to the necessary page and began scanning the instructions and ingredients. Snape crept up behind Malfoy and potter and sneered" Well Potter you're awful quiet today."
Harry just looked at him and replied, "I'm just trying not to give you a reason to give out detentions."
Snape looking slightly put off by this change in tactics suddenly drawled " detention for your cheek Potter. See me after class."
Ignoring the gufgaws from the Slytherins Harry merely nodded his acceptance and went about his work. As before Harry handled the ingredients while Malfoy did the actual brewing. Suddenly sensing something was amiss Harry silently placed a strong shield around him and continued with the potion. Toward the end of class while the potion was in a critical stage, Malfoy 'accidentally' spilled the whole cauldron in Harrys lap.
Harry jumped up out of his seat glaring daggers at Malfoy while the rest of the class looked on. Malfoy looked at Harry grinning thinking that Harry was going to lose all normal senses and waited expectantly for it to happen.
Snape on the other hand glared in their direction and cursed, "Causing trouble again Potter! Zero for your work today and another detention. Now everyone bottle and label your vials and get out of my dungeon!"
The Slytherins laughed openly at this while the others glared at Malfoy. After everyone, had gone Snape closed and locked the door and placed a silencing charm around them.
Looking at Harry. Snape suddenly said," Look Potter I knew that was going to happen, Draco told me the dark Lord wanted him to do it, so I had no choice but to let it proceed."
Harry just nodded at Snape and let him continue, "How did you repel the potion?" He asked.
Harry just shrugged and replied, "I just got a bad feeling and shielded myself."
Snape nodded and looking thoughtful for a moment said, "I know this a difficult position for both of us. Even though I dislike you, the fact remains that you actually are a fair potion brewer. Perhaps when all this is over, he said referring to the war, we can meet again on new terms."
Harry let that sink in for a moment and replied in a low soft voice " Severus, for the longest time I had reason to hate you and at the time I thought justly so. However over the last year 've come to a better understanding of what made you into the person you are today and the difficult burden you bear walking between the light and the darkness."
Suddenly Harry stuck out his hand and offered it to him saying, "Here's to the future."
Slowly Snape accepted his hand and gripped it tightly for a moment before releasing it saying, "Thank you Harry."
Harry made ready to leave and nodded to Snape in way of farewell and left. Snape stood for a moment longer lost in thought and made his way back into his office. Unbeknownst to the both of them, Draco Malfoy clad in his invisibility cloak had witnessed the entire scene unfolding and nodded to himself. His Master would be VERY pleased with what he had discovered. Draco too made his way back to his dorm and then down to lunch.
After promising Ron to come to look over team prospects at the afternoon tryouts Harry made his way to DADA with Ron and Hermione telling them what took place between himself and Snape along the way. DADA that day was fairly easy and Harry was helping Dumbledore teach the Reflection Charm. Actually, a useful charm at that it took spells that hit you and reflected them back to the original caster.
After DADA Harry remained behind to tell Dumbledore that he had a matter to discuss with him later that evening during their lesson. Dumbledore just nodded and sent him along to his next class.
Arithmancy that day was quite hard. Manually deconstructing a spell into its mathematical equivalent was mind numbingly boring to say the least. But after looking at the shield spell they were working on Harry immediately saw some flaws in the construction matrix that could be changed to make it much stronger and able to withstand much more with the same amount of energy input. Harry pointed these flaws out to Professor Vector who squealed with delight at his discovery and spent the rest of the period mumbling to herself about revolutionizing shielding construction.
Hermione just smiled up at her friend and said "See Harry? I told you, you have talent in this area!"
Harry just nodded and replied, "Well to be honest it's much easier for me to just think about a shield, raise it and let my sub-conscience do the rest."
Hermione just laughed and said, "You sure like to take the fun out of it Harry."
Harry joined her in the laugh and replied, "Well I suppose I do at that."
As the two made their way down to the Quidditch pitch Hermione asked " Sooooo Harry how are things going between you and Ginny?"
Harry looked at her and said "so far so good, I mean, we both know now that we have feeling for each other so I think we will just take the time to explore them."
Hermione nodded replied, "I'm so glad that the two of you are together. You seem so much happier lately."
Harry just grinned saying "well a good woman has that affect on you."
Hermione just grinned at his response and smiled happily. The two of them reach the stands surrounding the Quidditch pitch and sat down to watch the tryouts. Looking up in the sky, Harry sighed Ginny flying around looking for the snitch while the same time dodging Bludgers that were being sent in her direction by Dean in Seamus.
Looking thoughtful for a second Harry turned to Hermione and said" Mione, do you think a broom for a Christmas present is romantic?"
Hermione looking up at her friend replied" well for me it would be Harry, but for Ginny I think it would be a grand present."
Harry thought for a moment longer and nodded his agreement. Harry and Hermione continued talking for a few moments longer when suddenly scream rang out across the pitch. Looking up they gasped as they saw Ginny fall off her broom and start plummeting towards the Earth. Before Harry could even think about it, he had jumped out of his seat and into the air and was flying to catch Ginny. Harry was streaking upward and unbelievable rate catching her and about 50 ft. above the ground. He made his way back to the pitch and set her down gently unaware of the he shocked silence and stares of awe the he was receiving.
Unaware of anyone else save Ginny, Harry asked her "are you alright?"
Ginny just nodded dumbly at him and said, "Yes"
Meanwhile the rest of the team it landed and Ron coming over looked at Harry and asked the question they were all thinking. "Haaarry he said shakily how did you do that? You were flying without a broom."
Harry suddenly realizing what happened gasped, "I don't know. I only thought about trying to save Ginny and then suddenly I had caught her."
Ron looking more relieved now that his sister was safe just grinned and said" come on Harry try again."
Harry he nervously around at the other players saw that they too wanted him to try again. Nodding his assent Harry suddenly willed himself up into the sky. Hovering for a few minutes Harry then decided to try flying around. Looking at the goal posts Harry decided to fly as fast as he could to them. To the observer on the ground it had appeared as if Harry was right above them and then suddenly was at the other end of the pitch.
Feeling a little more daring Harry flew higher and higher into the sky until the people below him were mere dots. This is fantastic he thought to himself I never imagined I'd be flying without a broom.
Quickly flying back down he landed lightly beside Ginny. Everyone else was staring at him as if he had lobsters crawling out of his ears.
Ron was the first to recover and with a grin said" bloody hell Harry if you're going to pull stunts like that you need to get a costume."
Ron statement seemed to pull everyone else from their stupor and they all had a good laugh.
Harry just sighed it felt wonderful to fly like that without a broom. Waving to his friends, Harry took Ginny by the hand and the two made their way back to the castle.
Dinner that evening was a lighthearted affair and everyone took turns recounting Harry's rescue. Harry on the other hand to great delight in watching the ever-changing colors I Ginny's face.
After dinner was over Harry told Ginny he would see her later and made his way up to Dumbledores office for his lesson. As Harry approached the gargoyle, it sprang out of his way and allowed him passage. Harry was surprised but continued on his way to his meeting. Dumbledore seeing Harry enter smiled at him and offer him a lemon drop.
Harry too smiled and said" I take it you heard what happened on the Quidditch pitch today"
Dumbledore just nodded, his eyes twinkling madly," No matter what happens you never cease to amaze me."
Harry nodding in amusement simply replied " Nor I myself"
Dumbledore just chuckled and continued "During DADA today you said you had a matter you wish to speak with me about."
Harry nodded and told them what transpired between himself and Professor Snape.
Dumbledore simply said" to be honest with you Harry, I've been hoping that something like this would happen. Severus Snape is a hard man to get along. Many things have happened to him during the course of his life, especially when he was younger, that originally brought him to Voldemort side."
Dumbledore looking thoughtfully at Harry continued, " When he realized he was fighting for the wrong side he came to me and asked my help. Since that time I have done my best to give him a second chance in society as well as a second chance in his own life. It's very difficult existence for him. I am glad Harry that you too, have decided to give him a second chance."
Harry looked thoughtful for a second and replied "well I suppose the more I read about the humanities every injustice replays in my mind every time I judge someone."
Dumbledore looked over Harry and smiled saying "those of us in power or that have power must always make decisions like that."
Now Harry Dumbledore continued, "how was the prison coming along?"
Harry informed Dumbledore of the progress he had made thus far and of the remaining step to fully activate the prison. Dumbledore nodded looking pleased and said "very well. I shall inform the ministry and get a date said for the trials to begin."
Harry nodded treatment and Dumbledore continued; "now Harry, for tonight's lesson were going to discuss politics."
Dumbledore seeing the sour expression on his apprentice his face merely chuckled and said "Now Harry as a leader you have to know how to play the game, and politics is a game my young friend. Sometimes it costs gold and sometimes it's a matter of making the public appearances and shaking hands and kissing babies and all that."
Harry grinned at the thought of American politicians running around on the campaign trail. Dumbledore continued "you Harry, were born to lead, not because you are the boy who lived, though that was one of the reasons I sent you to your aunts residents to grow up. No Harry it is because of your birthright that you are to lead."
Harry sighed and resignation and finished the lesson commenting "Well I don't care what you say Albus, I still can't see myself running around kissing babies."
Dumbledore suddenly looking serious merely replied "Harry someday this war will end. What will you do after you have defeated Voldemort? Unfortunately your choices will be limited the entire wizarding world will call for you to take your proper place. Right now, you lead as a field commander, taking action and bringing in the bad guy. However soon enough you are going to have to lead to policy and delegation of authority to others. There are two different worlds Harry it is best for you if you learn the other one now."
Later that evening as Harry lay in bed he thought to himself "Albus is right. What will I do when I defeated Voldemort?"
A/N As always thanks for your reviews and support. New question for you all to decide. Most reviews wins it as I have scenarios for both. To kill Snape or let him live?
Darkness and Light
Harry and Ginny went down to dinner along with Ron and Hermione chatting along the way.
"Harry what is going to be our first lesson tonight?" asked Hermione.
The other three looked at Harry expectantly awaiting his answer. Harry just said, "For tonight it wont be too much, just a course outline and some practice on spells you should already know."
They nodded and Ron said, "I can't wait mate. Your classes are the best in the whole school," Ron said grinning.
The four friends sat down and Gryffindor table and were about to eat when Dumbledore stood up and said, "If I may have your attention please. I would like to remind you that Mr. Potter's class practical combat dueling will take place tonight at 7:30. In the room of requirement. This class is open to the entire school and I encourage you all to attend. Please give Mr. Potter your utmost attention and respect during his instruction."
Dumbledore signaled them to begin eating and sat down. Ginny looked up at Harry and asked," Are nervous about tonight?"
Harry said "Kind of. It was a little bit different last year when we are trying to keep it secret. But now to have to actually be teaching people; knowing that these skills may mean life or death for them is a bit disconcerting."
Ginny nodded knowingly and said "Well try not to worry about it too much you'll do fine."
Harry just smiled at her reassuring words and began to eat. Ron on the other hand must have been very hungry; he ate three times as much, three- time three times as loudly as the others did. Finally, giving a satisfied belch that brought him looks of disdain from Ginny and Hermione Ron sat back and sighed and contentment.
"Honestly Ron, Hermione said when will you ever learn manners!"
Ginny just laughed and said "you're too late Hermione hes a lost cause."
The rest of dinner concluded peacefully and Harry turned Hermione and asked, "We're you able to get a hold of the rest of the old DA members?"
Hermione just nodded replied " Yes they will be there 15 minutes early just like you asked."
Harry nodded at that and said "Well lets make our way up to the room and get ready for everyone else."
As they were leaving the Great hall, they did not notice a silent figure stalking them from shadow to shadow. After making the customary three passes in front of the room it opened for them and Harry converted it to its former state last year with cushions and added a large dueling platform in the center.
"There said Harry it should about do it can you guys think of anything else."
The other three shook their heads and said "no." All right said Harry lets wait on the others to arrive. After about 10 minutes Neville, Luna, Dean, and Seamus entered.
"Hey Harry," said Neville smiling.
Looking at his watch Harry asked " Dean this all that are coming from last year?"
Dean answered" so far we are the only ones left from last year that want to continue."
Harry looked at them and said "the reason I called you guys here early is because I expect we will have a lot more students now that we can hold this class publicly. I wanted you guys to help some of the other students as I expect it a lot of first and second years."
Neville looked shocked and said "even me Harry?"
Harry just smiled at his friend and said "even you Neville. You improved a lot last year, more than you know."
Neville just smiled shyly at his friend and took a seat along with everyone else that was gathered. Soon enough other students started to filter and by the time Harry was ready to close the door about 25 people had come. Harry was surprised to see to slithering first years as well. Taking this is a sign of hope Harry jumped in and began the class.
Taking the podium it suddenly appeared in the middle of the room Harry said, "Good evening everyone glad you could make it. To start with, I'll go over little the course outline and what we hope to learn in the coming year. As you know with the return of Voldemort Defense against the dark arts has become very important class."
Many of the students winced at the name of Voldemort. Harry noticing this continued on "we need as wizards not only the ability to defend ourselves but also we need to know how to attack. Some spells we learn in charms class but for the most part they are simple day-to-day charms and not entirely useful in combat. My task in your goal is to learn curses and hexes that will disable your opponent giving you time either to get away or to capture them."
A small boy in the back of the class raised his hand "Ummm Harry Potter sir?"
Harry seeing the raised hand said "Yes err........"
"James Wilks" the student supplied.
Harry nodded and said "very well James your question?"
James Wilkes continued "sir as a first-year I know very few spells will we be able to keep up with the rest of the class?"
Harry nodded at him and said "it will be difficult for you at first but I have enlisted the aid of some of the other members of the club that attended last year. They will help to tutor you in your subjects and in the class here. I know it's difficult to practice spells that we learn in other rooms of the castle so I'm going to leave the room of requirement open to all members of this class."
Many faces in the class brightened at the prospect of being able to practice their spells more. Harry taking one more look at the class stated gravely "last year the sorting hat told us we needed to unite or crumble from within. I want you to tell your friends and anyone else you think you can trust come to this class and join us to learn. Dark times are coming and we need to be prepared for war."
Continuing on Harry said, "think of your family and your friends. Think of the people you don't even know you may think your part to play is a small one. But if you can save a single life, even your own life then I have done my job and you have done yours."
The students sat quietly for minute all looking at Harry with the utmost respect. Resolve and determination appeared on the faces of many. Harry noticing this knew it was time to start teaching.
Harry looked over Hermione and said "Hermione would you mind taking the first years through the third years and going over basic shield spells with them."
Hermione nodded and gestured for those groups to follow her. Harry continued, " For the rest of you we will spend today's lesson going over casting a Patronus."
Harry went over the basic spell with the class and split them into groups of those who could cast the charm and those who could not for practice. Things are going very well but soon enough it was time to in the class for the evening and Harry took the podium once again and addressed them.
"Well done this evening everyone remember what I said about coming back your practice that will be the only homework you ever get from this class. Practice, practice, practice. You see Harry said your magic is like a Muscle the more you use it the stronger gets so come back here to this room and practice all you can. Class dismissed."
After everyone had left Ginny would stay behind him up the Harry and said "excellent class tonight Harry I can't wait for next time."
Harry replied, "hopefully everyone will be caught up soon and we can get down to the business of real training."
Ginny nodded and said "what you expect to do it more people start coming next week in the week after that and such?"
Harry replied "well, for get enough I'll have to split classes by years and do it like that."
Ginny replied " well don't overdo it, you only have so much time for your own studies you know."
Harry took her hand and let her to Gryffindor tower. After seeing her to the common room, Harry bid her goodnight and made his way back to his own chambers. He had arrived in the middle of what apparently looked like a fight between Fawkes and Godric.
Harry looked between the two and said "Gramps? Is there a problem?"
Looking slightly miffed Godric responded " No, no problem here Harry just that this old flying turkey has to argue and Pick apart everything I say."
Harry looking intrigued asked, " What were you two arguing about?"
Godric just replied "Oh this and that it doesn't really matter, point is that this old bird always has to have the last word no matter what. He's always been like that."
Harry just smiled and said "well if you two could keep it down to a dull roar I'd appreciate it because I'm going to sleep."
Without waiting for an answer, Harry turned and went into his chambers and went to bed.
Later that evening in the Slytherin common room Draco Malfoy threw, his new invisibility cloak over his shoulders and made his way to the Owlry. He had a very interesting report to send to Voldemort.
Early the next morning Harry awoke early and decided to begin, phase two of construction on his new prison. He had been thinking of many different names to call it and had finally decided upon 'Sheol'. After waking Godric and consulting the spell book the Godric had given him, Harry cast the next set of enchantments. Keying himself to the mirror Harry opened it and looked inside. Looking around the land was flat as far as the eye could see and the sky gave off the eerie red glow of twilight. Harry nodded in satisfaction knowing now he only had to add creation and replenishment spells necessary to open the prison fully.
Harry met his friends for breakfast usual and made his way to potions with Hermione. After going and and taking their seats Snape appeared and informed them that today they would be working on the potion of Extension. Looking around Snape asked, "Who can tell me what this potion does."
Hermione raised her hand along with Malfoy. "Mr. Malfoy" Snape called on him. Malfoy responded with a sneer that the potion was designed to enhance the normal senses.
Snape nodded and continued" today we will be brewing this potion for the Aurors but be warned improperly brewing this potion will cause the user to LOSE all those same said senses. BEGIN! He barked."
Harry had already turned to the necessary page and began scanning the instructions and ingredients. Snape crept up behind Malfoy and potter and sneered" Well Potter you're awful quiet today."
Harry just looked at him and replied, "I'm just trying not to give you a reason to give out detentions."
Snape looking slightly put off by this change in tactics suddenly drawled " detention for your cheek Potter. See me after class."
Ignoring the gufgaws from the Slytherins Harry merely nodded his acceptance and went about his work. As before Harry handled the ingredients while Malfoy did the actual brewing. Suddenly sensing something was amiss Harry silently placed a strong shield around him and continued with the potion. Toward the end of class while the potion was in a critical stage, Malfoy 'accidentally' spilled the whole cauldron in Harrys lap.
Harry jumped up out of his seat glaring daggers at Malfoy while the rest of the class looked on. Malfoy looked at Harry grinning thinking that Harry was going to lose all normal senses and waited expectantly for it to happen.
Snape on the other hand glared in their direction and cursed, "Causing trouble again Potter! Zero for your work today and another detention. Now everyone bottle and label your vials and get out of my dungeon!"
The Slytherins laughed openly at this while the others glared at Malfoy. After everyone, had gone Snape closed and locked the door and placed a silencing charm around them.
Looking at Harry. Snape suddenly said," Look Potter I knew that was going to happen, Draco told me the dark Lord wanted him to do it, so I had no choice but to let it proceed."
Harry just nodded at Snape and let him continue, "How did you repel the potion?" He asked.
Harry just shrugged and replied, "I just got a bad feeling and shielded myself."
Snape nodded and looking thoughtful for a moment said, "I know this a difficult position for both of us. Even though I dislike you, the fact remains that you actually are a fair potion brewer. Perhaps when all this is over, he said referring to the war, we can meet again on new terms."
Harry let that sink in for a moment and replied in a low soft voice " Severus, for the longest time I had reason to hate you and at the time I thought justly so. However over the last year 've come to a better understanding of what made you into the person you are today and the difficult burden you bear walking between the light and the darkness."
Suddenly Harry stuck out his hand and offered it to him saying, "Here's to the future."
Slowly Snape accepted his hand and gripped it tightly for a moment before releasing it saying, "Thank you Harry."
Harry made ready to leave and nodded to Snape in way of farewell and left. Snape stood for a moment longer lost in thought and made his way back into his office. Unbeknownst to the both of them, Draco Malfoy clad in his invisibility cloak had witnessed the entire scene unfolding and nodded to himself. His Master would be VERY pleased with what he had discovered. Draco too made his way back to his dorm and then down to lunch.
After promising Ron to come to look over team prospects at the afternoon tryouts Harry made his way to DADA with Ron and Hermione telling them what took place between himself and Snape along the way. DADA that day was fairly easy and Harry was helping Dumbledore teach the Reflection Charm. Actually, a useful charm at that it took spells that hit you and reflected them back to the original caster.
After DADA Harry remained behind to tell Dumbledore that he had a matter to discuss with him later that evening during their lesson. Dumbledore just nodded and sent him along to his next class.
Arithmancy that day was quite hard. Manually deconstructing a spell into its mathematical equivalent was mind numbingly boring to say the least. But after looking at the shield spell they were working on Harry immediately saw some flaws in the construction matrix that could be changed to make it much stronger and able to withstand much more with the same amount of energy input. Harry pointed these flaws out to Professor Vector who squealed with delight at his discovery and spent the rest of the period mumbling to herself about revolutionizing shielding construction.
Hermione just smiled up at her friend and said "See Harry? I told you, you have talent in this area!"
Harry just nodded and replied, "Well to be honest it's much easier for me to just think about a shield, raise it and let my sub-conscience do the rest."
Hermione just laughed and said, "You sure like to take the fun out of it Harry."
Harry joined her in the laugh and replied, "Well I suppose I do at that."
As the two made their way down to the Quidditch pitch Hermione asked " Sooooo Harry how are things going between you and Ginny?"
Harry looked at her and said "so far so good, I mean, we both know now that we have feeling for each other so I think we will just take the time to explore them."
Hermione nodded replied, "I'm so glad that the two of you are together. You seem so much happier lately."
Harry just grinned saying "well a good woman has that affect on you."
Hermione just grinned at his response and smiled happily. The two of them reach the stands surrounding the Quidditch pitch and sat down to watch the tryouts. Looking up in the sky, Harry sighed Ginny flying around looking for the snitch while the same time dodging Bludgers that were being sent in her direction by Dean in Seamus.
Looking thoughtful for a second Harry turned to Hermione and said" Mione, do you think a broom for a Christmas present is romantic?"
Hermione looking up at her friend replied" well for me it would be Harry, but for Ginny I think it would be a grand present."
Harry thought for a moment longer and nodded his agreement. Harry and Hermione continued talking for a few moments longer when suddenly scream rang out across the pitch. Looking up they gasped as they saw Ginny fall off her broom and start plummeting towards the Earth. Before Harry could even think about it, he had jumped out of his seat and into the air and was flying to catch Ginny. Harry was streaking upward and unbelievable rate catching her and about 50 ft. above the ground. He made his way back to the pitch and set her down gently unaware of the he shocked silence and stares of awe the he was receiving.
Unaware of anyone else save Ginny, Harry asked her "are you alright?"
Ginny just nodded dumbly at him and said, "Yes"
Meanwhile the rest of the team it landed and Ron coming over looked at Harry and asked the question they were all thinking. "Haaarry he said shakily how did you do that? You were flying without a broom."
Harry suddenly realizing what happened gasped, "I don't know. I only thought about trying to save Ginny and then suddenly I had caught her."
Ron looking more relieved now that his sister was safe just grinned and said" come on Harry try again."
Harry he nervously around at the other players saw that they too wanted him to try again. Nodding his assent Harry suddenly willed himself up into the sky. Hovering for a few minutes Harry then decided to try flying around. Looking at the goal posts Harry decided to fly as fast as he could to them. To the observer on the ground it had appeared as if Harry was right above them and then suddenly was at the other end of the pitch.
Feeling a little more daring Harry flew higher and higher into the sky until the people below him were mere dots. This is fantastic he thought to himself I never imagined I'd be flying without a broom.
Quickly flying back down he landed lightly beside Ginny. Everyone else was staring at him as if he had lobsters crawling out of his ears.
Ron was the first to recover and with a grin said" bloody hell Harry if you're going to pull stunts like that you need to get a costume."
Ron statement seemed to pull everyone else from their stupor and they all had a good laugh.
Harry just sighed it felt wonderful to fly like that without a broom. Waving to his friends, Harry took Ginny by the hand and the two made their way back to the castle.
Dinner that evening was a lighthearted affair and everyone took turns recounting Harry's rescue. Harry on the other hand to great delight in watching the ever-changing colors I Ginny's face.
After dinner was over Harry told Ginny he would see her later and made his way up to Dumbledores office for his lesson. As Harry approached the gargoyle, it sprang out of his way and allowed him passage. Harry was surprised but continued on his way to his meeting. Dumbledore seeing Harry enter smiled at him and offer him a lemon drop.
Harry too smiled and said" I take it you heard what happened on the Quidditch pitch today"
Dumbledore just nodded, his eyes twinkling madly," No matter what happens you never cease to amaze me."
Harry nodding in amusement simply replied " Nor I myself"
Dumbledore just chuckled and continued "During DADA today you said you had a matter you wish to speak with me about."
Harry nodded and told them what transpired between himself and Professor Snape.
Dumbledore simply said" to be honest with you Harry, I've been hoping that something like this would happen. Severus Snape is a hard man to get along. Many things have happened to him during the course of his life, especially when he was younger, that originally brought him to Voldemort side."
Dumbledore looking thoughtfully at Harry continued, " When he realized he was fighting for the wrong side he came to me and asked my help. Since that time I have done my best to give him a second chance in society as well as a second chance in his own life. It's very difficult existence for him. I am glad Harry that you too, have decided to give him a second chance."
Harry looked thoughtful for a second and replied "well I suppose the more I read about the humanities every injustice replays in my mind every time I judge someone."
Dumbledore looked over Harry and smiled saying "those of us in power or that have power must always make decisions like that."
Now Harry Dumbledore continued, "how was the prison coming along?"
Harry informed Dumbledore of the progress he had made thus far and of the remaining step to fully activate the prison. Dumbledore nodded looking pleased and said "very well. I shall inform the ministry and get a date said for the trials to begin."
Harry nodded treatment and Dumbledore continued; "now Harry, for tonight's lesson were going to discuss politics."
Dumbledore seeing the sour expression on his apprentice his face merely chuckled and said "Now Harry as a leader you have to know how to play the game, and politics is a game my young friend. Sometimes it costs gold and sometimes it's a matter of making the public appearances and shaking hands and kissing babies and all that."
Harry grinned at the thought of American politicians running around on the campaign trail. Dumbledore continued "you Harry, were born to lead, not because you are the boy who lived, though that was one of the reasons I sent you to your aunts residents to grow up. No Harry it is because of your birthright that you are to lead."
Harry sighed and resignation and finished the lesson commenting "Well I don't care what you say Albus, I still can't see myself running around kissing babies."
Dumbledore suddenly looking serious merely replied "Harry someday this war will end. What will you do after you have defeated Voldemort? Unfortunately your choices will be limited the entire wizarding world will call for you to take your proper place. Right now, you lead as a field commander, taking action and bringing in the bad guy. However soon enough you are going to have to lead to policy and delegation of authority to others. There are two different worlds Harry it is best for you if you learn the other one now."
Later that evening as Harry lay in bed he thought to himself "Albus is right. What will I do when I defeated Voldemort?"
A/N As always thanks for your reviews and support. New question for you all to decide. Most reviews wins it as I have scenarios for both. To kill Snape or let him live?
