The Practice of Slytherin
It was 7:00. Severus Snape felt much older than his 22 years.
He had spent a good portion of the day outside of class defusing tensions between his Slytherins and other Houses. While he was satisfied that only one of them was started by a Slytherin, each required proper handling.
The other Heads of House were beginning to understand that he wanted to be involved in all incidents involving his students. He had also observed an incident between a Gryffindor and a Hufflepuff.
When Minerva and Pomona had questioned his calling them in for such a minor incident, he had emphasized that he wanted to be called whenever a Slytherin was involved in an altercation – and he was only returning the same consideration.
He had then established his preferred method of investigation by requiring not only the two students but all students who had stayed and watched to present their wands for prior incantati. When one student protested (a Ravenclaw – the two Slytherins in the crowd had known not to protest) he had emphasized the need to prevent any student from being framed.
Tbe Hufflepuff had then been sent to the hospital wing (he had performed a quick couter charm initially) and the Gryffindor had been turned over to a livid Head of House.
He entered his office and moved to his liquor cabinet to pour the one fingerwidth he indulged himself with when he had a tough day. Suddenly …
"Rough day?"
Severus Snape, Slytherin, spy and veteran, almost dropped his bottle of firewhisky. He calmly set it down and turned. "Could you not startle me within my own office?"
Gary Seven smirked at the man and said, "Would you have preferred I interrupt you in your Potions lab?"
Severus considered that and then sighed. "Fine. To what do I owe the dubious pleasure of your company this evening?"
"How are things going?" Gary asked.
Severus finished pouring his whisky as he considered his answer. "It has been stressful but I am establishing myself with the other heads. So in that, at least, it has been good." He sat down and took a sip.
"Well, that's good. You might want to keep an eye out for the Prophet tomorrow. It's begun."
Severus was of two minds about that. "So, Pettigrew has been apprehended and Black will be free?"
Gary nodded and smirked. "It was a bit of show to ensure he got a fair trial, but Remus has a decent sense of theatre. Say whatever you will, the Marauders were good at attracting attention when they pulled a prank."
Severus gave the man a withering look. "Yes, quite."
"Anyway, I've come back to see if you need anything else. I've set a whole bunch of things in motion but the multiverse hasn't pulled me on. So it's obvious I have more to do."
Severus considered that for a moment. "It would be salubrious if there was a more efficient system in place for Hogwarts professors to call the Heads as needed. I am insisting on being called when dealing with a Slytherin altercation, but it takes much time to send a random student to retrieve me."
Gary thought about that. "Let me think on that and get back to you." He paused and then looked at Severus. "You really are a learned and intelligent man – your language makes that obvious. The typical Hogwarts student must annoy you to no end."
Severus gave Gary a long-suffering look. "You have no … idea."
It was immediately after classes the next day when Severus was called to Headmaster's office. He provided the password and was called in before he could knock.
"Ah, yes. Severus. Come and take a seat," Albus Dumbledore said congenially.
Severus moved to stand near the window. "Thank you. But I sit often when brewing and prefer to stand for the moment. You asked to see me?"
Albus was slightly taken aback – but it would only be noticeable if one was observant, more observant than most of the sheep that made up the Wizarding world. "Yes. Of course. Well, first I want to ask how you are settling in?"
"I have been settling in well. I have begun to control the more negative impulses of my Slytherins and have instituted procedures to … reduce tension."
Albus' eyes twinkled as he considered his spy. "Yes. Minerva mentioned the incident with young Mr. Travers. Why did you not take care of it yourself? You have the authority."
Severus had a blank expression as he replied, "As Slytherin Head of House, I am demanding involvement in all altercations involving my students. I am only returning that consideration to the others. I have no need to deal with every student – my own take much of my attention."
Albus considered that. "Well, we shall see how that works. Anyway, I asked you here to get your advice on an issue I have."
"And the issue is …"
Albus sighed. "Sirius Black."
Severus sneered – Dumbledore would have been suspicious if he hadn't. "And what concern do you have about him?"
"As you might have seen in the Prophet he was exonerated. While I am happy to find our assumptions about him false, his presence on the scene provides complications."
"Oh?"
"Yes. He is the godfather of the boy-who-lived. I have placed the boy where I could erect powerful wards. If Sirius demands custody as his godfather, the wards will be lost. And I can't have that." Albus was very serious as he said that.
Severus had been told by Seven that the Headmaster would take this position. "What matter? Explain to the man about the wards. Allow him to visit the boy and spend time with him, but demand that he allow him to reside where you have placed him."
Albus sighed. "That would be fine, except the family I placed him with would not appreciate interference. And if Sirius always visits the same place, some follower of Tom might notice and follow him – thus negating the anonymity that Harry Potter currently enjoys."
"With whom did you place the boy?" He gave a small sneer when he said boy – he was playing his part with the Headmaster as Seven had suggested.
Albus looked solemn as he said, "Lily's sacrifice provided a protection that only could be extended by placing the boy under a Blood Ward. His only common relative with his mother was his mother's sister Petunia."
Severus, although he had been told by Seven, needed a moment to get his emotions under control when confronted with the confirmation. "First of all, I believe you have made a mistake. Petunia Evans was a spiteful, bitter girl whom I am certain has become a spiteful, bitter woman. If you wish the boy to grow unharmed, it would probably be best for there to be a regular monitor to ensure the boy is properly cared for. Black could provide that."
Severus paused and looked thoughtful for a moment. "Insist that he learn how to operate in the muggle world exclusively. Black is a pureblood and, although he knew muggleborns, I am certain he never learned how to fit in in muggle society. You wish to keep the boy away from his fame – and that is likely a good thing. If Black wants to visit and spend time with the boy, he must be able to do it there.
"Institute procedures which would prevent Black from a routine which would lead any Dark wizard to the boy. Insist Black apparate to random locations within London and then take muggle conveyance to visit him. The random apparating will prevent whatever muggle taxi from being tagged with a tracking charm because the taxi will not be predetermined. He must check himself before going there so that any tracking charm is found and dispelled. The muggle taxi will confound any magical tracking. Insist he perform no magic within the neighbourhood that the boy lives in. If he wishes to take him away from the home for any length of time beyond twelve hours, insist that Black check with you to ensure that the wards will not be negatively affected."
Albus was astonished as he considered his spy. "Your suggestions are well conceived – even done without forewarning." He paused. "I see that your mind is much more suited to clandestine actions than my own." Mentally, Severus scoffed at that – Albus Dumbledore was the master of manipulation. "Can you put aside your rivalry with Sirius and take charge of security procedures for Black's involvement? It would ensure that he is kept safe and away from scrutiny. And your vow means that you will not endanger him."
Severus gave all indications of being emotionally rebellious but finally said, "Fine. But I insist that you explain the situation to Black. I will not put up with pranks, vitriol, or hostility. If I am to play this part, I must insist on proper behaviour."
Albus smiled, eyes twinkling, as he replied, "I can certainly do that."
Severus Snape looked at the letter he had received. His new policies were creating some waves. He wasn't worried though. He made his way to the Deputy Headmistress. "Minerva. I will need to leave for an hour. One of the parents has a question for me and it will be better if I met them elsewhere."
Minerva was curious. "Is there a problem you need help with?"
"No. Just a need to defuse possible future issues."
Severus made his way into the Three Broomsticks. Madam Rosmerta immediately noted his entry. "Ah, Mr. Snape. How are you this afternoon?"
"I am fine, Madam. I am here to meet Mr. Woolsworth."
"Yes. He requested a private room. Through that door." She pointed to one of the private dining areas. "What refreshment would you like?"
"Butterbeer for me."
He made his way to the room and found a very annoyed looking wizard. He moved to sit across from the man, saying nothing. Rosmerta quickly entered the room and served the butterbeer before leaving, closing the door behind her.
The man looked at him. Severus calmly drank his butterbeer and looked back. Finally the man broke. "You are Severus Snape, the new Head of Slytherin?"
"Yes, I am," Severus answered.
The man pulled a letter from his pocket and almost threw it to him. "I received this letter from my son."
Severus nodded and quickly perused it. "Yes. That does appear to be Thaddeus' style."
"Do you see the problem with it?"
"No I do not."
The man's face took on an ugly look. "My son mentions that he is tutoring a muggleborn. And that you arranged it."
"Yes, quite true."
The man's anger increased. "Why are you encouraging my son to consort with … those lesser than us?"
Severus regarded the man and replied, "You object because I have your son tutoring a mudblood, correct?"
The man nodded curtly.
"Do you know the name of the mudblood you son is tutoring?"
The man shook his head. "He didn't mention it."
"That's true. Before I answer that I have a question for you: What does your family do? How do you make money?"
The man was confused. "We raise sheep to provide parchment, textiles, and food for both wizards and certain farms that raise carnivorous animals."
"Yes. And you sell to Scribbulus and Scrivenshaft?"
The man was thrown off. "Well, yes. But what does that have to do with the issue at hand?"
Severus nodded. "The muggleborn that your son is tutoring is a Hufflepuff. Hufflepuff's are interesting as they go to great lengths to be loyal to their friends and allies."
The face of the man he was facing took on a disgusted look. "What does that matter? They're just Hufflepuffs."
Severus' face took on a small smirk when he said, "I am constantly amazed that the average pureblood looks down upon them, casting them as the leftovers. They work hard and are remarkably united." He paused to take a drink.
"Would it be of interest to you that the muggleborn we are discussing has entered into a close friendship with Cadues Scrivenshaft? And that young Mr. Scrivenshaft, wanting to ensure that his friend is not treated poorly, has inserted himself into the tutoring session, thus also taking advantage of your son's ability in potions?"
The man's face took on a deer-in-the-light look. "I was not aware."
"Now imagine it is, oh, early 1997. Cadeus has just been installed as the new operating manager for the Scrivenshaft shop, preparing himself to take over the business – his Grandfather has passed away and his father has taken over. He reviews the books and lists of vendors. He has recently learned that his old potion's tutor, Thaddeus Woolsworth, has taken a significant part in the Woolsworth operation. He notes that Woolsworth is being crowded out by others that he is not as familiar with. He thinks upon his friend, the beautiful and talented Gemma, who might be by that time his wife for all we know, and how young Thaddeus took the time and effort to help them succeed, earning them an Outstanding grade on their Potions OWLs. And perhaps their NEWTs. Very important of course – the making of proper inks requires knowledge of potions. Of course, Cadeus was a Hufflepuff. He's loyal. What do you think he would do if his old potions tutor that helped him so much was being treated poorly by his own company? I'm sure you can imagine that reaction."
Mr. Woolsworth was staring at Severus in shock.
Severus stood up and quickly finished his butterbeer before putting it down. "I am the Head of Slytherin, Mr. Woolsworth. It is my job to ensure that my students learn to express the cunning and guile necessary to achieve their ambitions. As such, I will take whatever necessary steps to ensure that they succeed. Is there anything else you wished to enquire about?"
Mr. Woolsworth mutely shook his head.
Severus gave a small bow. "Very well. I'm certain you can take care of the price of the refreshments. Have a good day, sir." Severus turned and walked out of the room, robes billowing.
Severus sat within the staff lounge. He was watching, sitting quietly, waiting for the remaining staff members to appear.
Finally, the last arrival – Albus Dumbledore – arrived with his gleaming hair and beard and colorful robes. He was smiling as he sat down. "I see that everyone is here. That is good. How are we all doing?"
There were various sounds and comments in reply. Finally, the small talk was completed. "So, are there any issues that anyone wants to bring up?"
The voice from off to the side surprised many of them. "If I may, Headmaster?"
They all looked over and saw the newest staff member sitting calmly off to the side. "Yes. Severus. What concerns you?"
"As I have discussed privately with the other Heads and yourself, I am working to correct possible … issues … involving the members of Slytherin. As a result, I have required all altercations involving said students to be brought to my immediate attention. I have also ensured that the other Heads are involved with their own students."
The Heads all nodded in agreement. The non-Heads looked interested. And the Headmaster just smiled and twinkled – annoyingly so.
"However, the logistics of such makes it tedious and time consuming. Corralling a passing student to get word to another staff member can take much time. If this is not solved, the system will be dropped as too cumbersome."
There were a number of nods. Finally Minerva asked, "And what would you propose?"
Severus nodded at the Deputy Headmistress. He then reached beside his chair and picked up a box. He stood and brought it to the main table. He opened the box and poured out a number of items.
"I spoke of this issue with a neutral acquaintance of mine. He applied his creative mind to creating a solution for me. These are the results."
The staff all looked at the contents that were revealed. There were several medallions and several chains.
"Each of these items is a medallion to be worn by each staff member. There is an icon for each subject, as well as for each House. In addition, there is one for Hogwarts as a whole. Through interconnection, each mediallion can be used to communicate to any other staff member an alert as well as a location. Should any professor find themselves confronted, for example, by a Slytherin and a Gryffindor at odds, the professor need only press here and here," he pointed to two icons, "and then push a location icon – floor and quadrant – and," he did as he explained and two of the medallions lit up, "the Head medallions will alert the corresponding staff member. The medallion will become warm, alerting the wearer to the message. If there is a general problem or emergency, the Hogwarts crest will alert the Headmaster."
He pulled the gaudiest medallion from the pile. "This is the Headmaster's medallion." A more sedate one was pulled out. "This is the Deputy's medallion. These two alone can put out a general alert to ALL staff medallions if there is an attack, an incursion, or a need for a general alert.
Albus' eyes lit up as he received the medallion for the Headmaster. It appealed to his taste. Before there were any objections, he quickly passed out the others. "They need not be worn – as long as they are within sight. However they can also be concealed beneath one's robes. There are four extras for additional staff or others the Headmaster might want to include." He reached into his robes. "Here are the records and instructions which would allow additional medallions to be made. Here is an instruction sheet which will teach each staff member how to use them."
He quickly moved to sit down and watch as the staff looked over the items and instructions. Filius looked possibly bubbly. "Severus! These are wonderful! I can only imagine the charms which went into creating them."
The current Defense professor had a frown. "This says that it uses the Protean charm … isn't that what you-know-who used to …" Everyone looked up at the comment.
Severus really tried to hide his sneer. "Regardless of the misuse of magic by Dark wizards, the value and validity of properly used charms and magic cannot be discounted. No Dark magic was used in the creation of these medallions."
Filius was nodding with certainty with Severus' reply. "You could just as well outlaw Wingardium Leviosa because a Dark wizard used it to crush others with rocks. Rejecting charms based on the misuse by other wizards or witches is silly."
Minerva had a question. "Why is there a separate icon for, let's say, Herbology and Hufflepuff? Isn't Pomona both the Head of Hufflepuff and the Herbology professor?"
Severus nodded to the question. "While you yourself enjoy being the Deputy Headmistress, Mistress of Transfiguration, and Head of Gryffindor, I cannot imagine that such will always be the case. In fifty years, these positions might be held by different people. Thus, you would wear the Deputy medallion, while the Transfiguration and Head of Gryffindor medallions are stored with the extras. When staff changes, the medallions would have to be issued by the Headmaster or Headmistress appropriately."
Albus finally looked up from his new toy and said, "Well. I believe these will be wonderful tools. We'll test them for the rest of the year to ensure that they are effective." He looked over at Severus curiously. "Who helped devise them?"
Severus gave a non-committal answer. "A wizard I met at a Potions symposium on the continent. He has licensed the basic design through Gringotts, wishing to remain anonymous. The Hogwarts set is exempt from the need to pay royalties based on the suggestion coming from me. Hogwarts will never need to pay for additional medallions to be made as needed."
The staff meeting soon broke up. Minerva made a point to leave with Severus. When they were far enough away, she looked at him with her most accusing look. "You made Albus' gaudy deliberately, didn't you? Just so that he wouldn't dismiss these out of hand."
Severus smirked. "If I appealed a bit to the vanity of others, it should not be that surprising: I AM a Slytherin."
Minerva looked at the young Potions Master and clucked, "Oh, you!" She barely could contain her own amused smile.