HPNSA - BOOK TWO

CHAPTER SIX
THE HEADMASTER’S RETURN




Harry had been staring at Draco for a long time when he noticed someone else was in the room. He looked at the figure standing at the opposite side of the bed; he was almost like an apparition with the soft light of the early morning streaking through him. Harry wanted to ask him what to do but knowing he would be given the final choice in the end he decided not to. He fiddled with a brightly colored stone – one of three that was given to him as a gift. Draco would toss and turn in his sleep and cry out loudly asking for his forgiveness and Harry almost felt compelled to forgive him. But the memory of what he did during the ritual baffled him greatly. What pushed Draco to do the vile act was something Harry had been thinking about for a long time. If Voldemort did not conjure the spell, and judging only by the look in Draco’s eyes, Harry thought he was actually enjoying it.

Now he looks at him again, torn and tortured by the spell that was placed upon him by he who now stood before them both. He holds in his hand a stone that could mean the difference between Draco’s sanity and a life of madness and Harry could not decide whether he should set him free.

“I cannot stay any longer than Midday…”

“What happens at Midday?”

“I return to the living…” Dumbledore slowly walked towards him. Harry tried hard not to meet his eyes. “I cannot help you with this choice.”

Harry nodded and looked at Draco again, this time he was whimpering and Harry saw tears softly flowing down the side of his face to his ears to a damp spot on the pillow beneath his head. This wasn’t the only time he cried; Harry felt sorry for him but pity wasn’t enough. “I want to…you know I do. But he did something that I cannot bring myself to forget…not unless…not unless I understand more. Animaverto…what does it do?”

“It is a soul-binding spell. One of nine that are no longer taught by schools. Much like the one I placed on him, except Animaverto,” Dumbledore said, sitting on a chair closer to Harry who reclined on the bed. “It required something other than an oath.”

“Voldemort used it on him during the ritual,” Harry said. He turned to face the old sorcerer and expected him to explain further but when Dumbledore did not speak he pressed him for the answer. “You know I can release him from your spell. Would you like me to?”

“The choice is not mine to make.”

“Do you think I should then?”

“What does your heart tell you?”

“My heart is numb…it has been since Ron left.”

“Yet it holds the answer though you try hard to conceal it. Your eyes betray you, Harry…they always have.”

Harry smiled. He forgot all about this window to his soul that many have used against him on more than one occasion. “Was it just the spell?”

“Does it really matter to you why he did what he did?” Dumbledore said.

“If it was just the spell, I would release him without a second thought,” Harry said. “But there was something else…something that would not allow me to put a closure to the past…until I can make myself believe that I should, I can’t.”

Dumbledore closed his eyes and nodded. “I know you too well to ever believe you would let everything pass without so much as an explanation. After all, wasn’t I faced with your uncontrollable anger when Sirius died?” Harry smiled even wider; he was getting answers today. “The Animaverto spell makes one see things - It animated images that only lived in ones mind.”

“Images?” Harry said.

“Fantasies…buried deep inside his subconscious.”

“Somehow I find that hard to believe.” Harry looked at Draco again and realized he was lying to himself for he did see a side to Draco that no one ever saw - A tenderness that was hidden so deep that when a chance came for him to release it, he took it greedily, hungrily, disregarding everything else; even Ron’s temper. Harry closed his eyes and remembered how Draco kissed him that day inside Candice’s cottage – he couldn’t bring himself to confront him out of exhaustion and partly out of gratitude. Archer had just been born then and Draco made sure they were both taken cared of.

“Do you really?” Dumbledore said.

“I suppose there’s no use lying,” Harry said laughing a bit at the irony of it all. “Perhaps I didn’t want to believe. There was nothing between us for many years except hate.”

“Hate is an emotion that emanates from the very same place as love. It is just as powerful and just as binding. And when one shows either emotion, there is this shadow that the other is close by, waiting in the wing for a signal. Harry, do you remember the day you first met him at Diagon Alley?” Dumbledore said.

Harry sat up again his feet now dangled, his toes touching the floor. “Yes, yes I remember that day. He wanted to be my friend, but because he said something nasty to Hagrid…”

“You refused. How do you think that made him feel?”

Harry shrugged. “He never made any attempt afterwards. I didn’t think it meant anything to him.”

“But it did. I think it made him bitter. And every single day he looks back to that and wonders.” Dumbledore said. “When he found out you were a Nymphrodite he could have used it against you instead he kept it to himself. So unlike Draco, don’t you think?” Harry looked at the floor, calculating everything that was now revealed to him about his nemesis. “The soul-binding spells need a foundation within the person to make them work. The one I placed upon him was founded on a seed, though it is buried deep inside him it was enough, and he sealed it with an oath and his blood. As you can see, he is now paying the consequences of going against it. Without that seed, Harry I could not have conjured the spell. It would have been easier to use the Imperius curse instead. But the spell worked, which means my guess was right. That there was something inside him that connected him to you, it was gamble that I took, and I don’t regret it.”

Harry looked at Draco again and he remembered the number of times that he provoked Draco. He often wondered why he never fought back, not even one insult was heard from him. In fact Draco exerted a lot of effort to avoid confrontation. “So that is why he was so kind to me. He was under a spell,”

“The spell is not like the Imperius curse that dictates your every move, no. Instead it acts as a warning, to remind him what he must not do, and the punishment only takes effect when he goes against the seed from which it was founded on. So Draco was always free to do as he pleases. Only…he didn’t want to.”

Harry turned around and looked at Draco again. “Are you saying he cared for me? That deep inside he felt something like…” Harry wanted to say love but it was too difficult for him to accept that Draco felt anything that complicated – least of all for him.

“You know the answer to that Harry.” Dumbledore said smiling deliciously at him.

“Then what was the seed that Voldemort used?” Harry said.

“Remember the Dark Lord is an expert with Legilemency, he read Draco’s mind and found what he needed and used it against him.”

“What did he see?” Harry said. Inside though he feared he has found the answer but refused to accept. “What did he see, Professor Dumbledore?”

“I don’t hold all the answers with me Harry.” Dumbledore stood and made for the door. “I must go, I hope you find your answer. Remember that you only have seven days to make it. This could be your last chance to understand each other. Make each day count, Harry.” The old wizard then turned the knob and on his way out Harry saw him disappear as though he evaporated.

He was alone again, with Draco lying beside him and every now and then he would mutter a bit, whimper and cry. “What did you see?” Harry whispered softly. “What did he make you see?” He then laid his head on the pillow right beside Draco’s head and closed his eyes and tried to remember. Nothing came back except the images of the ritual. Harry shook his head and pressed himself further trying hard to remember something else, something earlier than that. And he saw it, the picture of them while they stayed inside this place, that day before Christmas where he and Ron made for the Burrow they saw Draco and the look in his eyes then mirrored loneliness.

When he opened his eyes Draco was already awake, looking straight at him. Harry smiled at him and only then did he realize that Draco could see him for his eyes widened and filled with a wild light. Draco screamed at his face then moved away from him falling out of the bed. Draco kept screaming and crying and he cowered away from Harry moving far back until he was stuck in the corner where he covered himself with his hands. Harry sat up and wondered why Draco could see him, and then he noticed that the stone was on the floor. He must have placed the stone on Draco’s hand and now he was real to him.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” Draco cried.

“Draco,” Harry said softly. “Draco stop!” He went to him and held him with both hands. Draco was shaking terribly. “Draco,”

“I’M SORRY! THEY MADE ME DO IT! THEY MADE ME SEE! I DID NOT WANT TO DO IT!” Draco screamed.

Harry realized he could get the answer to the riddle that bothered him greatly, but to do he would need to forgive him. He would need to set aside everything that he did – be it intentional or not – and forgive him. Only then will he know the answer. “What Draco? What did you see? What did he make you see?”

“NO! No! Forgive me! Forgive me!” Draco was now looking everywhere as though he saw many faces within the room.

Harry could not bear to see him like this. “What did you see?” Harry wanted to touch his face. But before he could place his hand on Draco’s cheek, he had already moved away from him and crawled under the bed. Harry looked under and found him huddled against the wall in fetal position muttering things to himsel.

Harry knelt on the floor and saw the stone disappear from his palm. The choice has been made – this whole day was going to be spent with Draco Malfoy – the last person he thought he’d spend it on. He searched himself thoroughly now if there was anything that would stop him from freeing Draco from Dumbledore’s spell – even a shadow of doubt would be enough – but there was nothing…no matter how hard he tried he found nothing but pity.


***
(Jan. 28 – midday)


“Headmaster, this is beyond what we all hoped for!” Severus said. “The Order has been vigilant and your return would certainly raise our failing hopes!”

Dumbledore gently caressed Fawkes’ feathers and said, “Unfortunately, Severus, I’m afraid that I bring with me darker times for all of us. Enough to sink it again I should think.”

“Nevertheless your presence will always be a symbol that anything is possible. Headmaster you fell.” Severus said holding onto Dumbledore’s hand as though he doubted the image was real; upon seeing that he was indeed flesh and blood, Severus knelt before him as if in reverence. “They said you sank the island and did not emerge…and we all thought…”

“Severus…” Dumbledore said, placing his hand on the potions masters’ head. “There is no need to show obeisance…” the old sorcerer helped Severus to his feet. “I have not returned to be worshiped.” He smiled and Snape smiled back amidst his tears. “War is upon us, be ready.”


Minerva McGonagall had just arrived at Hogwarts upon learning that Albus Dumbledore had returned. The Daily Prophet couldn’t have been faster than the owl that was sent by Hagrid all the way from the castle that was now slowly filling with wizards that were happy to learn that the old sorcerer did not really die. She scanned the entire castle and everywhere Gryffindor banners that were torn in half slowly flapped again whole, and the crest that was rent in two, now combined. The power that had left has now returned and Hogwarts was gearing itself for war.

The Ministry of Magic sent their representatives to investigate if the news was indeed true and Remus Lupin who had been waiting at the Department of Magical Law Enforcement with Nymphadora Tonks for any news of the whereabouts of any Death Eater, stood utterly bewildered by the excitement, when an owl landed on the table across him with a parchment address to him. He picks it up and read it and before he finished tears were already brimming in his eyes. He immediately set off to go back to the castle and on his way there he told Tonks who couldn’t help but scream.

The rest of the Order of the Phoenix were informed and soon they were all gathered inside the Great Hall gapping at the sorcerer standing there dressed in an exquisite burgundy and purple robe with a large staff in his hand encrusted with a large blue gem at its tip.

After much exclamation and words of grateful thanking to the powers above, and with members of the Ministry coming at will to either praise or question the return of Hogwarts’ current father, the Order now faced their greatest hurdle – to win against the law that strangled their paths with brambles of thorns. The new Minister did not approve of this sudden appearance and would forever question the authenticity of the returned Headmaster, but Amelia Bones was more than delighted to see him. It was she that was sent over and looking at him now, she is humbled incredibly by his power.

“Albus…” she gasped.

“I heard that you are about to deport our Knight back to New York.” Dumbledore said softly.

“The Ministry found him much too dangerous to be kept here, Albus.” Amelia said.

“Dangerous?” Albus said. “He who exerted great effort to become what he is because we cannot provide the kind of protection both he and Harry needed? Do you really consider him dangerous?”

“He used banned books, ancient spells…He claims to have spoken to the Keeper of the Dead?” Amelia said.

“So have I. That is why I am here, for the Keepers feel that I should return.” Dumbledore said sternly.

“I see…”

“Tell the Minister that there is no need for him to send Ron to New York, and that he should be released from the asylum as soon as possible.” Dumbledore said.

“I will inform them, though I cannot guarantee that they will listen.”

“Your efforts are nevertheless recognized, Amelia. Having an ally within those walls are all we need…for now.” Albus said smiling at her through his half-moon glasses. Amelia took her leave and left to inform the Minister that Ron needed to be released from Saint Mungos.

“This is incredible!” Tonks said.

“Ron is now in the Burrow though, and I believe Fred has taken George’s place. Tomorrow, Ginny will be there.” Remus said. “I’m sure Ron will be excited with this news,”

“No, Remus, do not tell him that I am here. He must not be allowed to return to Hogwarts.” Albus said. Remus looked confusingly at Dumbledore who turned to him and said, “You have to make sure that he stays as far away from Hogwarts as possible…at least until we can get Draco to a safe place. They must never cross paths, Remus.”


***

“I don’t understand. Hestia should have been here by now. I wonder what is keeping her.” Elphias said pacing the room nervously. “She is never like this.”

“Well, Shacklebolt has not responded to the owl I sent out either.” Tonks said.

“Something’s wrong.” Severus said. “Where were they the last time they reported?”

“Well, they were both near the Cambrian Mountains.” Remus said.

“They should have known by now. You’d think that news about Dumbledore coming back from the dead would be enough to get them back here faster than a firebolt!” Tonks said.

Suddenly Hagrid came rushing in with Firenze in tow and a cage with a rat inside. Remus stood and seeing the rat he took out his wand and pointed directly at it.

“Well, well…if it isn’t our old friend Wormtail!” Remus said.

“Ran out of holes to crawl into I suspect,” Severus said standing and taking out his wand as well. “Get him out of that containment.”

Hagrid took the rat by the tail – how it squeaked. He dangled it in front of the two and they both conjured a spell to change the animagus back to human form. Moments later Peter Petigrew was kneeling on the floor cowering in front of them and before he could run away Alastor conjured magic ropes to tie him securely.

“Please have mercy!”

“Mercy?” Remus said. “I’ll show you my mercy!”

“Remus, we should let Dumbledore see him first.” Severus said. “After all he did help Draco escape.”

“Yes, well, that is also something I deeply question, how he was able to flee from the Forbidden Tower when Harry was left there to suffer.” Remus said. He then went closer to Peter who closed his eyes tightly when Remus pointed his wand at his head. “You made sure we knew just the right information. Why did you do it, Peter? What made you turn against your master? Or is this another one of your cruel tricks?” Peter did not answer instead he just went on whimpering and crying for mercy.

“We’ll soon find out, if he doesn’t want to talk, perhaps his pensieve will shows exactly what went on behind those accursed walls.” Severus said. Then with Alastor he and Hagrid took Peter to face Albus in his office.


***

Severus was on his way to the Southern Tower when Draco who was coming down the winding stairs met him. Surprised to see the young man suddenly cured of his insanity Severus went to him and pointed a wand.

“Professor Snape?” He cried and covered himself. “What are you doing?”

“How can this be?” Severus cried aloud lowering his wand, he touched Draco’s forehead and satisfied that it was true he shook his head. “How can you be cured? Only…”

“Harry came. I am alright, though I will never be wholly cured of him, I think it is safe to say that for the meantime I am no longer a burden to you.” Draco said. “Professor Snape, Ron and Archer need to come here as soon as can be arranged.”

“Severus!” Tonks cried. “The Ministry has got Goyle and Dolohov! We need to go there! Oh hello Draco…” then she turned around again. “DRACO!” She went closer to him and seeing that he has been cured of his madness cried again and hugged him tightly. Draco hesitantly returned the embrace, awkwardly wrapping Tonks with his arms. He has never really done anything like this before, and he knew that from that time on, he needed to learn. “This has been a day of miracles! First Dumbledore then you!”

“Harry told me he has returned.” Draco said smiling at her.

“Harry?” Tonks said looking at Severus confusingly.

“Apparently, Potter has made contact with him.” Severus said.

“Well,” Tonks said. “Good news! Good news indeed!”

“I will go to the Ministry of Magic and see those two.” Severus said. “Looks like the grass has been shaken rather violently. The snakes are coming out!”

“I think I can go to the Burrow and tell Ron himself,” Draco said. “Harry needs to see him and their son desperately.”

“No! You must never go there!” Severus said.

“Why not?”

“Headmasters’ orders. You will be transferred to Glasgow before the end of the week. For now, I suggest you pay Dumbledore a visit. I’m sure he wants to learn more about this visit from Harry.” Severus said. Draco nodded and he and Tonks headed off to see Albus while Severus went on his way.

***

“I see Harry has cured you of my spell.”

“Yes, Professor Dumbledore.” Draco said smiling.

“You look so much different now, Draco. Your face seems clearer.” Minerva said.

“A heavy burden has been lifted from his shoulders Minerva. Harry has chosen well.” Dumbledore said. “I am glad that the two of you have been able to sort out your differences and come to a closure.”

“He wishes to see Ron and their son. He was hoping I can get them here tonight.” Draco said. “But Professor Snape said I shouldn’t go there. That I need to be transferred to Glasgow.”

Dumbledore nodded and stood from his chair. He went closer to Draco and said, “Harry may have forgiven you Mr. Malfoy…” Dumbledore said. “But I’m afraid, Ron will not be as forgiving.”

Draco swallowed hard cause though Minerva barely understood what it meant he knew exactly what Dumbledore was talking about. “I understand…he has every right to hate me.”

“For the meantime, he does not know. I prefer to leave it that way. Until Harry returns he must never know what went on inside the Altar room.” Dumbledore said.


***

Williamson sprinted down towards Hopkirk’s office where Severus Snape was waiting to be taken to the cells where Antonin Dolohov and Goyle were being held. When he got there and he saw the former Death Eater he looked at him suspiciously with narrowing eyes.

“Severus!”

“Williamson.” Severus said his languid voice mirrored the calmness of his face “I heard you have Dolohov and Goyle in your custody…where are they?”

“Miss them that much already?”

“If you want to accuse me Williamson, do it formally, I have neither the time nor the patience to wait here while you make your case.” Severus said.

Williamson frowned at him and unwillingly took him to where the Dark Wizards were being held. Many magical ropes tied them down and their wands had been broken in two, and they were in a squatting position with their fingers separated with magical pincers to prevent them from conjuring wandless magic.

“Traitor!” Antonin cried upon seeing Severus.

Severus looked at them with a smile in his face, “Hello Antonin! So nice of you to remember me.”

“The Dark Lord will have your head for your treachery!”

“That’s right, keep telling yourselves that he will come back to torment your enemies.” Severus said. His calm sarcasm made them angrier. “The ritual, who took part in it?”

“You will get nothing from us, Severus. Don’t even try to use Legilemency…” Goyle panted.

“Did you take part in it Goyle?” Severus said, and then he smiled. “I don’t need to use magic to know that you did.”

“So what if we did? He is dead! You were not able to save him! Even your precious Headmaster fell!” Goyle said laughing through his teeth; they were both getting tired from squatting.

“Yes, well, I am the least of your troubles, Goyle. And we will have the information we need. It has been a pleasure seeing you both again.” Severus said. Then he noticed something dangling from their necks – an amulet of sorts he wanted to ask them about it but figured it was not necessary - they will tell all that they know very soon.