Chapter Seven

Severus Snape did not feel equipped to handle the Headmaster today, but as usual he didn`t have much of a choice. He almost wished Dumbledore would just let him go, as he obviously was no longer capable of neither teaching potions (not that he was much of a teacher anyways) nor serving anyone as a potions master.

"So dear boy, how do you think integrating a new potions teacher into the school in time for semester start will go" the Headmaster asked in an uncharacteristically serious manner.

Severus gave his usual sneer but instead of answering asked a question back "why have you kept me on Headmaster, it is obvious I am no longer of use to you in any capacity."

"I have `kept you on` as you say because you are still capable of giving advice and support, even if your role as teacher here and any future in Voldemort`s ranks have been compromised. I cannot understand why Lucius had to curse you in this manner; it is most vexing to lose you as a potential future spy."

"Most vexing" Severus spat bitterly before taking a hold of himself "you are still sure that the Dark Lord will return then" he asked.

"Yes quite sure, and at that time I will need a new spy. I had thought to try converting Black to our cause." Severus almost frothed at the mouth at the mention of Black and said through clenched teeth "I would kill Black the moment I saw him, you must surely know I cannot work with that traitor even if you managed to convert him. I suggest we try Parkinson instead, I feel he was never a very convinced death eater. I`m sure his parents pressured him into service, since they died in the last war he might be persuaded."

Albus looked thoughtful a moment "I`m sure you know your former Death Eater colleagues best, I will make sure to reach out to Parkinson if the opportunity presents itself."

"But surely that is one way I can still be useful to you Headmaster, I could contact potential defectors for you" Severus said. He couldn`t believe this, his only saving grace was being taken from him part by part by that stupid curse of Lucius`

"Not to worry dear boy" said the headmaster twinkling merrily at him once more "I will definitely make use of your other talents and knowledge, I do depend upon you to try steering your Slytherins toward our side. In addition, I had hoped you might be interested in sharing the position as my assistant with Minerva. She has indicated that she would appreciate less responsibility, so that she can concentrate on her other duties."

Severus had to admit that this suggestion was flattering to him, and as he no longer seemed to be needed as a spy he could be more outspoken to his charges on the subject of pureblood prejudice and the Death Eaters. Loath as he was to admit it, he probably should try to be friendlier with his colleagues if he was to serve as assistant to the Headmaster.

"Do you accept the challenge dear boy" the headmaster asked smiling in a knowing manner at Severus.

"I never back down from a challenge, I will do my best" Severus said as he rose to leave.

"As you always do Severus" Albus said smiling benignly at his younger colleague.

For some time after Severus had left the Headmaster sat thinking, suddenly he rose and cast a pinch of floo powder into the fireplace. Even if Severus refused to work with Black, it might be beneficial to sound out any possibility of gaining a useful spy. Parkinson might indeed be amenable, but two possible spies would be even better than one. It was lucky minister Fudge owed so him many favours, as he foresaw having to cash in some today…