Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

If This Is How You Treat Your Heroes...	By : SpeedyTomato Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Lucius Views: 96985 -:- Recommendations : 12 -:- Currently Reading : 15
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter and make no form of profit off this story

Chapter List
- 7
- 8
- 9
Chapter 8

Beta'd by the most wonderful, amazing and stupendous Tenchi. Woman, you are the best and love you for all you do for me!

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Standing in his private office just off the classroom, Snape looked to his normal, dour self, scowl firmly in place. However, that was misleading. For the first time in many a year, he was fully panicked. Because of the life he led and what he did, he was just better at masking his emotions than most other people on the earth. Walking over, he seated himself at his desk and picked up the copy of The British Seer that was there, scowling at it. However, despite the scowl, his gut was clenched painfully, heart hammering in his chest. While he glanced at the article, his mind was racing over that last encounter with Potter. He was sure that the Obliviation worked. After all, the ones before it had so there was no reason that this one shouldn't as well. Something, though, didn't take like it should have.

Tossing the paper aside after reading the article, he then lit it on fire with a wave of his wand, leaning back in his chair. Shutting his eyes, he rubbed them and tried to think. Of course, why the Obliviation hadn't worked was the first thing that came to mind. That, though, wasn't something that was high on the agenda of what needed to be dealt with right now. As of this moment, there were many things that did, not the least of which was dealing with Albus and the Ministry. If Potter was in France, as the paper said, and didn't come back to Britain, there was very little they could do to him even with the memories. That pleased him. As big as the news of this was, however, he wasn't certain something wouldn't come of it. For now, all he had to do was deny and refuse to help. If he did that, nothing could be done. Well, he was going to have to keep his ear to the ground to see what else might be planned but that was something he always did anyway.

With a heavy sigh, he opened his eyes and looked at the mass of papers on his desk that needed grading. Right now he wasn't in the mood to even start those. Nor would he be effective if he tried. No, it wasn't happening. Instead, his mind was on the situation that was just dumped in his lap. As always, when he thought of what he had done to not only Potter, but a handful of others in the past, there was guilt over it. In the case of Potter, more than most. Whenever he couldn't take whatever was going on in his life, he took it out on Potter and others. Then, afterwards, like right at the moment, in his mind's eye, he could see a vision of Lily glaring at him, obviously upset over what he did to her son. That was worse than any torture he had ever endured. However, despite that, when the pressure got too much, he resorted back to what he knew, and another assault happened.

Shaking his head, he gave himself a mental kick in the ass over the whole thing, chastising himself for the slip of self control so many years ago that had set him on this path. The guilt after that first assault the year after he started teaching was still there and he was well aware it put him on the path to hell. However, unlike the self control it took to be a spy and do what it was he was good at, he had none in this area. When the pressure got to be too much, he slipped and did it again. Over the last few years, because of all that had gone on, those slips had happened more often. In fact, he had done it at least four times a year with two separate beings. The guilt over that was almost overwhelming. Especially with who the two were. He knew it was irrational and idiotic to blame dead parents, or other things out of a child's control, for what he did, but that's what he resorted to, something that allowed him to justify what he did to himself. Now, well, that slip of self control was about to come back and bite him on the ass. Probably in a big way. Azkaban, he was certain, if this was prosecuted, would look like Nirvana when the courts and others were done with him. The only one he wasn't worried about was the Dark Lord. After all, he had enough control to ensure that none in his own house were violated; favoring them just the way most would think he should.

Sighing, he slumped slightly, trying to think what to do. While doing that, he was desperately trying to shove the image of a furious Lily away. It wasn't going to go, though. No, it was staying, her anger and disappointment fully evident on her beautiful face. Those green eyes he still dreamed about were full of hatred. That made the whole situation worse. He could take a great many things, and had over his life, but her hatred he couldn't. In this area, he reminded himself that it was just an image, though a powerful one, and not real. After all, if it was real, he would wish he were dead by this point.

Mind skipping to the other being in the school that he did this with, he wondered if there was a way to go in and reinforce the Obliviations that were there. Right now he didn't think it was an issue, after all, the whole focus seemed to be on Potter, but better safe than sorry. He had no idea what could come of this so it was best to ensure that he was as safe as possible. The rub came in that he had no way to get to the boy to do that. It was doubtful that he would have a chance after tonight either. All he could do was sit and hope that nothing came of it then protect himself the best he could from the fallout that was sure to come.

Staring morosely at his desk, he was trying to think what to do when the summons from Albus for the meeting in his office came. Sneering, he stood then made his way in that direction. Oh, this wasn't going to be pretty and he knew it. The looks alone that he would get from others would be bad. However, that was about the worst that could be done to him right now. As it was just an article in the paper at the moment, speculation, nothing more, nothing would happen tonight. It was more what could over the next few days that bothered him. On that front, he thought he might be fine. After all, Albus would protect him. There was no way the aged headmaster would let him be turned over to the DMLE. He knew too much and was privy to too many secrets, from both sides, for Albus to allow that to happen. Though he may not like it here and what was to come wouldn't be pleasant, he was safe. That's what he was counting on.

Walking into Albus' office, Minerva fought the flinch that wanted to happen when she was hit with what felt like a wall of pure sound. It was loud. Of course she expected such an occurrence since what brought about the meeting was something fraught with emotion. Easing in, she glared at Severus who was seated off in a corner by himself, looking more dour than normal. Conjuring one of her normal straight-backed chairs, she sat down primly, clutching onto the copies of Harry's withdrawal papers.

Glancing around, she narrowed her eyes at Umbridge, who seemed to be madly scribbling in that ever-present pad of hers, looking almost furious. As far as Minerva was concerned, the toad-like woman was a big part of the issue here and needed to be prosecuted over the whole thing. Looking at Albus, she pursed her lips when she saw that he seemed to be distracted by other papers on his desk. Now wasn't the time to worry about everything else in the world, they needed to focus on the serious accusations that had been leveled in that newspaper and Harry's withdrawal. All else could be dealt with later on.

Clearing her throat, she got the aging headmaster's attention then quirked an eyebrow at him. That, she hoped, would get this moving along. After all, they had a school full of students that were right now confined to dorms and wanted answers that none of them had. That needed to come before almost all else.

Nodding to Minerva, Albus cleared his throat then said, “We have a serious situation here that we need to work out before we attend to the chaos it's caused in the school.” About to continue on, he was interrupted by a 'hem-hem'. Looking at Dolores, he said, “Is there something you need to say, Dolores?”

“Pardon me, Albus, but I don't see where this should interrupt the entire school. After all, this is nothing more than an attention-seeking ploy by Mr. Potter to stave off his being expelled when he refuses to show back up. We don't coddle students that throw temper tantrums when they aren't treated special,” the woman in pink simpered, looking pleased with herself. “We should ignore it, I will ban the students from getting that disgusting, slanderous paper and then we just move on. It's that simple.”

Glaring at the pink-loving toad of a woman, Minerva said, tone hard and cold with the heavy bite of her brogue, “It's not that simple, Dolores.”

“Oh, but it is,” Umbridge said, smile growing wider.

Producing the copies of Harry's withdrawal, she passed them around then glared at the woman who appeared stunned by what she was reading. “No, it's not,” Minerva told her. Looking around, she explained, “Harry's withdrawal from Hogwarts is official; there is nothing the Ministry can do about it, nor can they expel him because he did it through official channels before they could take that step. That came from his solicitor. It was accepted, as they all are. He also made serious accusations about many things, not the least of which is the use of a Blood Quill, manipulations, abuse and sexual assault. As he ensured those were included in the reasons, copies automatically went to the Board of Governors for them to look into. This not a simple matter and the Ministry has no say in any of it now. What comes next is a full investigation into the accusations by the Board of Governors. That the Ministry can do nothing about nor can they stave it off. It's written into the school charter just how such cases are to be handled.”

Looking at the withdrawal paper, Albus felt his heart sink. Reaching up, he rubbed his eyes under his half-moon glasses then tried to think. Never before had he had to deal with such serious accusations. In fact, he wasn't even sure of the proper procedure to do so. Looking at Severus, seeing the man glaring at him, arms folded over his chest, he then said, wearily, “We have to, by the terms of the charter, now launch a full investigation into all charges. As some listed here are prosecutable under our laws, it has to be done.”

“I do believe that the teachers in question also have to be suspended under the rules of the charter,” Minerva said, voice tight, glaring at the aging headmaster. She knew what was going on and that more than just the school was going to be affected by the whole mess, but in this case, procedure needed to be followed.

“Perhaps we can do something so that we don't have to take that step,” Albus soothed. Looking at Severus, he asked, “Would you be willing to be questioned under Veritaserum about the charges by members of the DMLE? If you do so we don't need to proceed any further than that on this charge.”

“Absolutely not,” Severus told him, tone icy. “I will not subject myself to such an intrusion over baseless accusations.” Though that would be what he normally said, something to be expected, he wasn't going to anyway, no matter what Albus tried. As of now he had a chance to stave off the accusations so he wasn't going to submit to anything that would give them ammunition to prosecute him.

Looking at Severus, stunned, Albus wasn't sure what to say. He expected, as always, that Severus would do as asked.

Glaring at the Potions Master, Minerva said, tone clipped, “The procedure is to remove the staff member accused from their teaching post and ensure that they are not allowed around students at all until a full investigation is completed. As Severus is head of Slytherin, that means he will be removed as head of house until the investigation is complete.” Eyes swiveling to Dolores, she said, “Though we cannot remove our Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher from her post as High Inquisitor, she has to be removed from her teaching post as well. Nor will she be allowed to hold any detentions as that will bring her into contact with students.”

“You have no power to do that,” the woman in pink snarled. “I'm here by order of the Ministry itself! Only they can remove me.”

“You're wrong, Dolores,” Minerva shot back. Conjuring a copy of the school charter, she handed it to the woman. After rattling off the passage pertaining to such situations, she said, “Unless the Ministry has passed a law while I slept that disregards the school's charter, procedures for such cases are clear-cut and have to be followed. Though you may be in the castle to continue to irritate the staff, you cannot be near any students. In fact, it tells the monitoring charm that is to be placed on you so that you cannot be within ten feet of any student. That includes torturing them in detention with a Blood Quill, Dolores.” Turning back to glare at Albus, she said, “The same applies to Professor Snape.”

“Now, Minerva,” Albus tried to soothe while desperately trying to think of a loophole around this. He didn't get any further than that when she cut him off.

“Don't 'Minerva' me, Albus,” she seethed. “I, as deputy headmistress, am in charge of these areas. I accepted Mr. Potter's resignation. In doing that, it's already been forwarded on to the school governors. If this is not followed, it's my head they will be coming for. No, I'm not willing to put my neck on the line for a situation such as this. It will be followed by the book until they step in and start their own investigation into all the accusations made.” Crossing her arms over her chest, she glared at Albus. Along with that, she knew he 'got' what she was implying; that he, too, was about to come under scrutiny for some of the accusations made.

Sobering up, Albus got the inference as well as the fact that Minerva was going to ensure this went by the book. That left him with little to no wiggle room. With a reluctant nod, he said, “So be it. As of now, Severus and Dolores are suspended from teaching and are not allowed around students. While they will remain in the castle, a monitoring charm will be placed on them so they don't come in contact with students.” Looking at the diminutive Charms Professor, who appeared to be shell-shocked, he asked, “Filius? Would you be so kind as to put the monitoring charm on them?”

“Of course, Albus,” the tiny man nodded, looking around.

“Someone needs to replace Professor Snape as head of Slytherin House,” Minerva reminded the aged headmaster pointedly. After all, they couldn't have an entire house unmonitored and running around.

Looking at Professor Vector, he asked, “Septima? Would you be so kind as to fill in as head of your old house until this is resolved?”

“Yes, Albus,” the Arithmancy Professor said with a nod. “If you will have words with the castle and have a room created down there for me, I'll take over tonight.”

“Consider it done,” Albus said with a wave of his hand. Looking back at Minerva, he asked, “Is there anymore that needs attending to?”

“Now, Albus, I understand that these are just accusations,” Pomona said softly, voice quivering. “Surely you can't let Severus stay in the castle. These accusations are serious and involve a sexual assault. To let him stay means that it will be perceived as putting other students at risk! We can't allow that. I know they are just accusations right now without proof, but--” trailing off, the Herbology Professor looked at the headmaster and waited.

“As you said; they are just accusations,” Albus told her, tone soothing. “I won't forcibly remove people from their home over mere accusations, no matter who makes them or how they are presented.”

Glaring at Albus, Minerva said nothing. Already she was 'getting' the fact that the headmaster was going to protect his pet spy at all costs. Even if it meant that he would allow a suspected sexual predator to stay in a castle full of children. All for the 'greater good' and following plans he had cooked up. Oh, she was now beyond furious. Keeping her tone level, she said, “We need to figure out how to explain this to the students. They all read that paper. Questions we have no answers for will be asked and we need to find a way to answer them for not only the sake of the students but what the parents will be inquiring about as well.”

“I agree,” Filius squeaked with a firm nod. “Minerva's house alone will have to be talked to. After all, Harry is-- was, a member of Gryffindor,” he said, trailing off, looking down at the floor.

“We say nothing to them,” Dolores sniffed. “This isn't something that needs to be discussed. Nor is it their right to know what's going on.”

“You're wrong, Dolores,” Pomona said with a shake of her head. Though mild mannered, something that aided quite nicely in dealing with her house, Pomona knew what students were like and what was the 'right' thing to do. “They have to be talked to. Rumors alone over the whole article will abound if we say nothing. That will lead to exaggerations that go beyond these walls and will cause even more trouble. Something has to be said. Especially when it comes to Gryffindor. The DMLE is bound to get involved in the matter. Once they are, they are going to want to question those in the castle about the accusations. The logical place they will start with is Gryffindor. Something has to be said. We have to give the students a chance to talk about it or it will explode. Not to mention deal with the emotional fallout from what was accused.”

Nodding slowly, Albus said, “Yes, we do need to say something. I will leave that to the head of houses as you can judge better how to deal with your students. I suggest that we just go with the line of the accusations were made and we don't know beyond that. When we know more, we'll impart the information. However, make sure to mention that the teachers in question have been suspended. That will pacify parents when they get the inevitable letters about the whole mess.”

Though Minerva nodded, her expression was tight. She was, of course, going to use what the headmaster said because it was the basic facts. However, she knew that she was going to have to go beyond that. Harry had been an intrinsic part of her house. Questions were going to be asked, emotions high and students upset. She was going to have to do more than just try to soothe fears and convince them that all was well, to let the staff handle it. No, a bomb was coming and she hoped to defuse it before it fully went off.

Deciding that was enough for now, Albus said, “Filius, if you could perform the spell, I'll then let you all go back and deal with the students. We don't want them left alone for too long with the upheaval.”

Standing, the tiny Charms Professor looked at the book Minerva produced then began to perform the charm.

Sitting in the meeting with most of the inner circle, Lucius' mind wasn't on what was being said, but the young man asleep in France. That, though, was to be expected. Tom was taking it into account as well, not including him unless he had to. The only reason Tom wanted him there was because of what he knew of the situation and the Ministry itself. As all that were here knew Harry was under Tom and Lucius' personal protection, that they knew the situation better than anyone else, he had to be there.

Tuning out the talk of the article and sexual assault, Lucius sighed as he rubbed his eyes. Right now he was exhausted and just wanted sleep. Since the whole incident came to pass, he hadn't had more than a couple hours of rest so he was tired. Tomorrow, from the sound of it, wasn't going to be any better. He was probably going to have to be gone most of the day with the Board of Governors and what they were going to have to deal with when it came to the situation. Tom had told him that once he wasn't need anymore, he could leave. They just hadn't gotten to that point yet.

Tuning back in and listening to some instructions given to someone else, Lucius was then startled by one of his house elves popping in. After the creature handed over a letter, it popped back out. As he and Narcissa were both gone, this was standard if something of major importance arrived from a select number of highly placed individuals. In this case, Narcissa probably saw who it was from and sent it on, feeling it was urgent. Looking at the name on the envelope, he sneered, eyes flashing. Tearing it open, he read it over, eyes narrowing.

Stopping when he saw the elf pop in, knowing that it was something important, Tom looked at Lucius. The expression on his old friends' face was enough to raise his curiosity. “Lucius?” He asked. When the man looked at him, he inquired, “Who is it from?” Normally, he wouldn't do that, but with the situation, he was certain it was related so he wanted to know.

“It's from Fudge,” Lucius snarled. “He wants me to come assist him in this mess and give some advice.” Stopping, he looked at Tom, mouth a thin line of anger. “I am not going. I cannot sit with that-- man and pretend to help him tonight.”

Understanding, Tom nodded. Though learning what Fudge might be planning would assist, with the mood his chief lieutenant was in, chances were that Lucius would end up hexing the idiot into oblivion. No, he couldn't chance that. Shaking his head, he said, softly, “You're out of the country, just as you've had the elves relay. Send an owl when you get back to France and tell him that.” Looking around at the others seated there, he said, “Though, normally, I tell you to keep close to your contacts if they are higher placed, I'm going to reverse that stance as of right now. If they are close to Fudge and toe his line, start backing off. Anyone connected with this debacle is going to end up with muck on them. We don't need that. What I need is for you to keep your positions or move up, not get pulled under the black water that's coming from this mess. Understood?” Looking around, he saw them all nod. “There are going to be a couple exceptions, of course, but I'll get with those of you that are. The rest I want to back away and, if needed, reverse your stance on what's been going on.

After seeing everyone nod, Tom leaned back in his chair and looked at Lucius then asked, keeping a calm tone, “As Fudge will be going down, do you think you should back off or stick with him? Don't let emotion cloud your judgment, Lucius. I need a clear answer that's not driven by your personal stake in this.”

Thinking that over, managing to see around what he felt for Harry, Lucius was quiet for a couple minutes before saying, tone thoughtful, “As I'm going to be drawn in tomorrow with what comes from the Board of Governors, I believe I need to back away and abandon ship, so to speak. The board is going to be one of the few entities that will have access to those memories through legitimate, need to know means. Well, everything but some of it dealing with the Order. Everything else will be up for inspection because it relates to Harry's schooling and why certain steps weren't taken to protect him as they would any other student. It will look very strange if I don't back away after getting a 'dose of reality' as to what is 'really' going on. Not to mention I have a son the same age in that school. No, I need to back off. Everyone close to Fudge will be going the way of the dodo, from mere advisers to staff. They are going to be hounded out of office, jobs, whatever, then probably hounded more, not to mention get a right reaming in the papers.” Looking up, he then glanced around and said, “I believe anyone even remotely toeing Fudge's line in this debacle needs to stop, back off or abandon ship, so to speak. With what's coming, no one close to any member connected with Fudge is going to come out unscathed.”

Taking that in, Tom nodded slowly. Thinking it over, he said to Lucius, “You're right, back off. Start with this letter. Don't answer and make yourself unavailable until after the meeting with the board.” Looking around, he said, “Other than a few I'll get to here in a moment, all of you need to do the same. What's coming is going to gut parts of the Ministry. I want as many of you to weather the storm as best you can. To do that, we need to make sure we're on the winning side.” Stopping, he looked at Lucius, who was still glaring at the letter, then said, “Lucius, I believe we can finish without you. So, if you want to go back, feel free.” Normally, such things would be a curt dismissal from a meeting, meaning that he was upset with the person. This time it wasn't the case. No, Lucius was dead on his feet and concerned about his young man, rightfully so. As he was certain that he had everything attended to that he needed Lucius for, he was going to allow him to leave.

Looking at Tom, Lucius saw a soft expression there and nodded, seeing it for what it was. Standing, he said, “If you need me, feel free to come and I'll attend to whatever.”

“I will,” Tom nodded. Then, waving a dismissive hand, he said, “Go. If something arises from that end, contact me. I doubt there will be much sleep had tonight on my end.”

Nodding, Lucius then went to the Floo to go 'home'.

Stepping into the Slytherin common room, Septima Vector looked around. As expected, there was complete chaos, the noise level something that hurt your ears. Head held high, she put up her wand then cast a spell that caused a loud bang, something that got everyone's attention, all eyes turning her way. When silence descended, she said, “As of tonight, I'm the new head of Slytherin house. Professor Snape has been relieved of his duties as both teacher and head of house. Though some of you know me, most of you don't. I will say, here and now, that I am not Professor Snape. I do not tolerate the foolishness he does. This is my house, one I was in while in school. It has a long and proud tradition that has been tarnished over the years. Though I may not be in charge long, I am going to do my level best to ensure that proud tradition is continued on.” Stopping, she waited on questions she knew were coming.

“You mean that Professor Snape was relieved of his duties over an article in the paper?” Pansy Parkinson asked, tone incredulous.

“No, he was not. Though that article would be enough to launch an investigation, the fact that Mr. Potter resigned from the school and leveled the same accusations via his solicitor through his resignation papers is enough to have caused not only Professor Snape but Professor Umbridge to be relieved of their posts while the Board of Governors investigates. That is non-negotiable and in the school charter. There is nothing that can be done as it is standard procedure. You will accept this like everyone else and not cause trouble over it. If you do, you will be dealing with me. As there are several students here that are in my class, they can tell you that though I'm fair, I’m strict. That will apply to how I run this house as well. My door is always open if you have a problem. However, if you are the problem or are causing it, you can expect that I will deal with you accordingly. Unlike Professor Snape, I have no problem issuing detention or docking points from my own house. I will do so and no amount of arguing or carrying on will stop me.”

Stopping, she looked around then said, tone firmer, “I have heard, as has most of the school, what is going on with Professor Umbridge. I have also been displeased to hear that my old house is involved in petty, vicious revenge on those that they don't like via that Inquisitorial Squad of hers. Though I do not have the power to tell you to resign, I can say that being involved in such a nasty, vile piece of petty vindictiveness will have repercussions. Slytherin, as I'm sure all of you know, has a long history. Though it has been tarnished by events of the past, we have something to look beyond to as a way to guide ourselves and base our conduct on.” Pausing, she then said, “Those that are members of the Inquisitorial Squad, please step forward.”

Seeing numerous students step forward, including some of the children of powerful, influential people, she snapped, “I am docking fifty points per person for everyone on the squad. Though I cannot tell you to resign, for every day you continued to belong, another fifty points will be docked and a weeks detention will be assigned to you to be served with Mr. Filch.” Hearing protests from everyone, she glared around, then snapped, “As most of our Quidditch team is also involved, I'm officially suspending the team from playing. I am also seeing that all our Prefects are included. Not anymore. I am revoking the badges of the current Prefects and will be assigning them to new people that truly understand what such an honor means. This is all effective immediately. All members of the squad will also be assigned a three foot essay on what the true meaning of being a Slytherin is and what their fine tradition stands for. That is due by Monday.” Stopping, she waited for the uproar.

“You can't do that!” Draco Malfoy stammered out, eyes wide. “My father will hear about this! The squad is sanctioned by the Ministry itself; you can't force us to resign!”

“No, I can't. Nor am I telling you that you must,” Septima said, calmly. “It's completely your choice. As for your father? I am quite sure that he will be here tomorrow, as I'm certain the Board of Governors will be coming to handle the charges leveled. You can take it up with him then, Mr. Malfoy. If he can find me one rule or by-law that tells me I can't do what I just did, I’ll reverse my stance. Until then, it stands.” Glaring at the young man, she then looked around and said, tone icy, “I'm not Severus Snape. Your shenanigans won't be allowed with me. I expect all of you to behave and act accordingly, not roam around this school like revenge seeking bullies that pick on people you don't like or you feel have wronged you as a way to make you feel better about yourself or boost your self importance. That does not work with me. Right now, the school is on lock-down with all houses confined to their dorms. I'm not certain what tomorrow will bring, but when I know, I'll inform you. Until then, go back to what you were doing. Any questions, comments or protests can be brought to me in my chambers. You know where the door is.” Seeing the shell-shocked and somewhat mutinous looks, she nodded then swept out.

Seeing her leave, Draco snarled. Oh, someone was going to pay for this! Wait until he could get a hold of his father!

Standing in front of the Fat Lady, Minerva looked at the painting. As would be expected, the woman in it was emotional. Sighing, she asked, tone its normal firmness, “No one has left, have they?”

“No, Professor McGonagall. I've made sure the entrance is locked.” Stopping, the painting looked at her then sniffed before asking, quietly, “Is it true? What I'm hearing? He's gone and fled to France?”

With a firm nod, Minerva said nothing. She knew the news would soon be all over the castle so she wasn't going to discuss it with the painting. Instead, she had to deal with her house, something that was going to be hard enough. Stiffening her spine, she motioned for the painting to open then stepped in.

The din that had been going on in the common room abruptly stopped when she made an appearance. Looking around, she said, keeping her tone calm, “I'm going to fill you in on what is happening to the best of my abilities. I don't have many answers right now, but I will answer your questions the best I can.” Glancing around, she said, “First of all, Mr. Potter has officially resigned from Hogwarts. I received the notice of that from his solicitor tonight.” As expected, the uproar began.

Rather than try to calm that, Minerva raised her voice, talking over it, knowing they would calm down to listen, “He made the same accusations in his resignation letter as were in the paper tonight. Because that is an official way to do so, an investigation has been launched into the matter and the teachers in question have been suspended. Right now, that's all we know of what is going on. We do not know the exact nature of what is being accused, how far reaching it is or if the paper is factual in that Mr. Potter has been given asylum in France. All we know is what I've just told you. To stave off problems tonight while matters are attended to, all students are confined to their dorms. Nor will there be Prefect rounds. Everyone is to stay in the dorm until the morning. After that, we don't know what is coming. We do know the Board of Governors has been notified and will have to investigate. Because Mr. Potter was part of this house, many of you can be expected to be called in for questioning. I expect you to answer truthfully and to the best of your ability. You will do no one any favors by lying or trying to hide the truth. As of now, I don't have many answers for you on the situation. When I get them, I will answer any questions you have.” Stopping, she looked around then asked, “Any questions?”

“Can the Ministry still expel Harry?” Hermione asked quietly. That was a worry for her as her friend didn't need that if all else that was in that paper was true. Looking at her head of house, still feeling like she could burst into tears any moment, she waited.

Looking somewhat smug, Minerva said, “No, Mr. Potter cannot be expelled. He officially resigned and there is nothing the Ministry can do to override that then expel him. He went about that part of the situation just how it should have been handled.”

“Snape is out of the castle, isn't he? I mean, if he did what the paper said, he should be gone,” Dean Thomas asked, looking around.

Seeing other heads nod and hearing murmurs of agreement, Minerva looked sour then said, “He has been suspended from both his teaching and head of house duties. However, he is still residing in the castle. Dolores Umbridge, too, has been suspended from teaching though she still holds her post as High Inquisitor.” That last part, though, was lost in the uproar that was caused when they heard Snape was still in the castle. Steeling her backbone, Minerva now tried to deal with the hell that had come.

At shortly after ten, Albus stepped into Grimmauld Place. There was to be a full Order meeting, minus a few people. Kingsley and Tonks would arrive shortly from what he was told. They were still tied up at the Ministry. Moody had sent him a message saying he would get there when he could as he, too, was tied up at the Ministry. Minerva was at the school. With all that was going on, he had to leave her in charge. Already, owls were streaming in and had to be dealt with. Also, a couple members of the Board of Governors had been in contact, wanting to know details. No, he couldn't leave anyone else in charge and expect them to know how to do what was needed. Only Minerva could attend to such things. Severus, of course, wasn't going to attend either. He hadn't talked to the man yet, not with the fires he was already putting out, and he wasn't going to bring him to a meeting. It took no great leap of logic to realize the man probably wouldn't survive a meeting right now. So it was best not to tempt the fates.

Stepping into the kitchen, he gave a sigh. Oh, this was going to bad. Already there were glares from Sirius and Remus. Others looked wary or shell-shocked. Taking a seat at the head of the table, he launched in, “As most are here, let's get started. I'm going to cover what I do know right now then go over what we need to do.” Quickly, he gave a rundown of what was going on at the school and what was garnered from that.

When it was done, he said, tone soft, “Tonks and Kingsley will be here shortly. If what I was told by Alastor was right, they will know something about what is going on. Alastor is working right now and will be here later after he can get away. He agreed to fill us in when he arrives.” Looking around the table, seeing some in tears, others downright angry and still others stunned, he said, “We need to focus to find out what is going on or how to find Harry. I'm going to work on some contacts in the Ministry to get copies of the memories that they were sent. At least the paper said some were sent. Once I view those, I'll have a better feel for what is truly going on. I'm also going to contact Madam Maxine to see if she can't find out if the asylum part is true. At least she may have heard something we haven't.” Looking over at Fleur who was one of those in tears, he asked, gently, “Fleur, if you could, can you contact your family to see what they know? It may not be much but every little bit of information helps.” Seeing her nod, he then looked at Bill Weasley. “Bill, tomorrow I need you to see of you can trace Harry through Gringotts. The standard for asylum means that the goblins will transfer his funds out of the country. If they did that with Harry's vaults, we know that part is factual.”

Giving a firm nod, Bill replied, “I'll see what I can find. If they did transfer his vaults out, I'll see if I can trace them. Normally, as Gringotts has many branches, they transfer funds to the one closest to where the person is living. That might give us a place to start looking.”

Nodding, pleased, Albus moved on to others that could see about ferreting out some information. It wasn't going to be much, he knew that, but even a little was a big assist. He was going to have to use some of his own contacts to get most of what he needed then rely on Tonks or Kingsley to produce more. After all, they were probably involved in the case right at the moment and would know exactly what was going on.

Sirius, up until this point, had been quiet. Though glaring murderously and clutching onto his wand, he was saying nothing. He was certain that had to do with the powerful calming draught one of the members had brought and cajoled him into taking. However, that didn't mean he was Mr. Passive and Meek either. No, he was still furious, just more in control of himself. Glaring at Albus, he asked through clenched teeth, “Where is Snape? I want to know so I can ask him personally if the accusations are true.”

Before Albus could answer or even ensure that the tone was kept calm for what was coming, Tonks and Kingsley came in. Watching them, the headmaster's brow was furrowed. Kingsley was ashen colored, shaking slightly. Tonks' hair wasn't it normal bright pink color either. Instead, it was a mousey brown that hung limply around her face. She also looked like she had been crying. Eyes following as the two found empty seats at the table and sat down, Albus waited to see what they had to say. Already, though, he had a very bad feeling about this. Those looks told him that even worse was coming than what he was already dealing with.

Looking down at the table, having heard the question that was asked, Kingsley said, tone soft, knowing what hell was going to be unleashed, “The accusations against Snape are true. All of them. We had to--” stopping, he swallowed thickly and shook his head, unable to continue because he was sure he was going to be sick over some of what he had seen.

“We had to watch them; one each,” Tonks said, tone watery as more tears slipped down her face. Looking at the headmaster, expression anguished, she pressed on, “The assaults go back to his first year. I-- we drew bottles so we didn't have to choose what one we saw. I pulled one from his first year.” More tears streaming down her face, she hitched, “I never want to see something like that again as long as I live.”

The immediate uproar that unleashed was stymied only by several of the men tackling an enraged Sirius and Remus, holding onto them so they couldn't leave. Albus, looking sick, put both men in a full body bind and placed them back on the benches. Just as he was about to launch in and try to calm the situation, Moody stomped in. Looking at the ex-Auror, Albus asked, “Alastor? You have some information for us?”

“I do, but we'll get to that tomorrow. You need to get back to the school now, Albus.” Seeing a quizzical expression on the headmaster's face. “There were other names of victims Snape assaulted in the memories Harry provided. He won't help, he made that clear, refusing to even allow someone to go to France to talk to him about it, but the Aurors can use those memories he provided to question other potential victims. A team of Aurors is picking up one of the relatives of a young man that was named right now and are going to the school to retrieve the alleged victim. You need to be there before Augusta Longbottom arrives then tries castrates Snape. She is murderous.”

Face going more pale than before, Molly's hands flew to her mouth then she muttered a soft, “No!”

Looking grim, Moody nodded, “Neville Longbottom was one of his victims mentioned by the man himself in one of the memories. They're going to get the poor young man and see if they can't break any Obliviations there are. If they can, Snape's going to be hauled in.” Looking at Albus, he said, “Go, now! Minerva is going to need your help.”

Pale, Albus nodded. Looking around, he said, “We'll reconvene tomorrow.” Then, in a swirl of his brightly colored purple robes, he exited to head back to the school.

Stepping quietly into Harry's chambers, Lucius' eyes immediately went to the young man on the bed. Right now, Harry was awake, eating something. Though still pale, he did look slightly better than earlier.

After a nod to his wife, who seemed to be sorting through a mass of parchments and envelopes, Lucius seated himself on the edge of the bed. Reaching out, he stroked Harry's head. “Feeling any better?”

“Some,” Harry shrugged, looking at Lucius.

Setting aside the mass of correspondence the elves brought to her that had come to Malfoy Manor that night, Narcissa stood. Looking at the two, she smiled then said, softly, “He's been waiting for you to come back before he takes another dose of pain killers and the Dreamless Sleep. Let me go get the vials so he can take them when he finishes eating.” Seeing the two nod, she went to find what was needed and give the two some time alone.

“You didn't have to wait up for me, Harry,” Lucius said softly, stroking his head.

“I know,” Harry told him, taking another bite of his sandwich. Giving a shrug and sigh, he said, “I just feel better if I know you're here. Sounds strange but--” Trailing off, Harry just looked at Lucius.

Understanding that, Lucius nodded. “I am now so you can take what is needed. However, before you do, I wish to discuss sleeping arrangements. How do you want to do this? I can stay in the other room or in here, whatever you wish.”

“Stay here,” Harry told him quickly, looking at him. “I know I'll be out cold but if you're in bed like you were last night, I think it'll be easier. It's strange, I know, but I know you won't hurt me and, well, you know.” Stopping, he just shrugged, looking at the man.

“So be it,” Lucius nodded, liking the idea. “I understand perfectly, Harry. You know you are safe with me. I may not be here when you wake, what with all that's coming from this debacle, but I will stay as long as I can.”

Smiling a little, Harry nodded, “Just so you're here when I sleep overnight, I'm good.”

“I will be,” Lucius assured him. Seeing Narcissa come back in, he straightened up then said, “Give me a few to change and then you can take your potions. Sleep will only do you good.” Seeing Harry nod, he got up to go change into his night attire.

A half an hour later, Lucius was sitting up in the bed with a sleeping Harry sprawled partially over his lap. One hand on his young man's head, stroking it, he was reading through the sheaf of parchments Narcissa had collected. All of them were about the debacle in the paper. Looking at his wife, who was seated by the bed, he asked, tone distracted, “You told them I was out of the country attending to business?”

“I did,” she said with a firm nod. “Most came via owl, so that was no issue. You can handle it in the morning. I did have to go to the manor a couple times to answer an urgent Floo-call. Those I told you were out of the country though I would try to reach you. As I didn't promise anything and with the mess going on, you shouldn't have any issues with no return call.”

Picking up the letter from his son, Lucius read through it and sighed, rubbing his eyes. Handing it to Narcissa, he said, tone weary, “There is little I can do to help with that.”

Looking at the letter, though knowing already what it said, Narcissa, too, sighed, “I asked Harry why he didn't say anything about Draco still being on that squad. All he did was shrug and say he didn't want to be a wedge in the relationship or cause problems.”

As Harry had done this before when it came to his son, not wanting to involve him in the rivalry that was there, Lucius nodded though looked sour. “I told Draco to resign. I even passed along that Tom told him to do so as well. He, apparently, didn't listen. Now, well, there is nothing I can do. Professor Vector is well within the rules and by-laws with what she did. Nor is it something that hasn't been done before when extreme measures have to be taken. No, this time he has to deal with the problem on his own. I'll talk to him when I go to the school tomorrow, but he has to take his 'lumps' this time.”

“It will be a lesson he has to learn,” Narcissa told him softly, though not liking it.

“I need to fill him in on just what is going on, at least part of it,” Lucius said, putting the mass of parchments on the bedside table. “Not all, of course, but enough to where he backs off. This is going to be a mess that we need no help in making worse.”

“You can manage, Lucius. He will deal with it from there,” Narcissa said softly. “I'll see if I can't get Tom to pen him a short note to explain part. It will be cryptic, of course, but that should end the issues.” Looking at her husband, seeing the tired expression and dark circles under his eyes, she said, gently, “Sleep, Lucius. Tomorrow is going to be just as bad as today. You'll do no one any favors by being tired.”

Seeing the wisdom in that, Lucius nodded. “You're staying, of course?” Seeing her nod, he said, “Have the elves wake you if there is another Floo-call. If I need anything, I'll send for you.”

Standing, Narcissa leaned over the bed and gave her husband a kiss on the temple. Then, leaning down, she did the same to Harry. Rubbing her fingers through the messy mop of hair on the young man's head, she said, softly, “If you need anything, send for me.” Seeing Lucius nod, she left the room.

Gently shifting Harry around until he was lying on the pillows on his side, Lucius slid up next to him and draped an arm over his young man's waist. After spelling the lights off, he put his wand aside and pulled Harry close. Shutting his eyes, he gave a weary sigh. Softly, he said, though he knew Harry couldn't hear, “You're safe, Harry. I'm here.” Resting his head against Harry's, he tried to push away the stresses of the day and get some rest.

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