Dark Veela

Chapter Five: Plans and Actions

Harry and Hermione work to clear Severus' name. A press conference is held at Hogwarts.

(i) The characters and world of Harry Potter are the property of J.K. Rowling. I just play with them because they are so fabulous.

(ii) Thank you most sincerely to everyone who left such kind reviews. I am so touched and encouraged. Please, please do continue to let me know what you think of the story. Your words of acknowledgement are treasures beyond measure.

(iii) A big thank you to Queen_of_Stars, my lovely beta. Your help has been much appreciated.

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After their conversation with Headmaster Black, the trio decided that they should clean up and make themselves presentable for their next tasks. Luna led Hermione up to the girls' dormitories while Harry made his way to the boys'. Kreacher had brought some of their belongings that had been left behind at Grimmauld Place, and Hermione still had a lot of their things in her beaded bag.

Hermione was ecstatic to stand under the multi-headed shower of the Ravenclaw girls' bathroom and have a long, hot shower. There was, in her mind, nothing like a magical shower with a never-ending supply of hot water to soothe away the aches and pains. After a final, long scrub and a double shampoo to her hair, she used the conditioner she found in the bathroom liberally. This isn't the time to worry about whose shampoo and conditioner I'm borrowing, reasoned Hermione. Feeling much more refreshed, if not completely back to normal, Hermione pulled out her smart dress, the floaty, lilac-coloured one she had worn to Bill and Fleur's wedding, in what felt like a life-time ago. Pulling out her wand, she transfigured the dress robes into a more severe black before settling finally for a dark midnight blue. She wanted to look as mature as possible for her meeting with Kingsley and the Ministry officials.

Luna seemed to understand the need for a more formal appearance as well. She had pulled on her best school robes.

Hermione, however, felt that Luna's school-girl appearance, even though that was her position, was not in their best interests and said so. 'Perhaps we could transfigure them to look different from our school robes. We don't want them to think of us as children or push us aside because of it.'

Luna nodded and then said, 'Will you do it? I'm not quite sure what you think is best.'

Hermione paused and then, with a flick, changed the colour to a muted shade of gray. 'They bring out your eyes, and if we do something to our hair, we'll both manage to look more grown-up,' explained Hermione.

'Yes,' said Luna, 'though I'm not really good with hair.' Then, she added helpfully, 'Fiona's got lots of clips and things; I don't think she'd mind if we could borrowed something, if you think it will help.'

'Excellent,' said Hermione. Moving over to the bedside table indicated by Luna, she removed a large silver hair-clip. 'Come here, Luna, and I'll put your hair up for you.'

Soon, Luna's hair was brushed and pulled up as neatly as Hermione could manage it. Luna's fine, blond hair looked good done up, and with her gray robes, she looked nothing like the Loony Lovegood people would remember from Hogwarts. Pleased with her efforts, she turned back to find something for her own hair.

Meanwhile, Luna had drifted off in the direction of Catriona's table and returned with a large, unopened bottle of Sleekeazy's Hair Potion.

'You're brilliant,' said Hermione, spotting Luna's discovery. Emptying most of its contents into her hair, Hermione managed to smooth it out until it lay sleek and glossy down her back. Then, she quickly did it up into an elegant French twist. 'Perfect,' said Hermione, looking at herself in the mirror. 'I look like I've been out of school for a couple of years at least.'

Feeling much more in control of herself, Hermione preceded Luna back to the common room. Harry had pulled on his old school robes, which Hermione soon fixed in length and size until it fit his new, skinnier frame better. 'There,' she said approvingly. 'Now you look ready to face the temporary Minister for Magic.'

Harry smiled. 'Do you know what we are going to say to people?' he asked.

Hermione looked thoughtful and walked towards the comfortable three-seater sofa sitting close to one of the bookshelf lined walls. 'Not really,' she said finally. 'I was just so focused on getting ready for the meeting; I've not really planned what we should say.'

'Right,' said Harry disbelievingly.

'Oh, alright,' said Hermione with a small laugh. 'I do have a rough idea what to say, but I was hoping that you would do the talking, Mr. Voldemort slayer.'

'I don't mind doing the talking,' said Harry plainly, 'but I think we should prepare before we go down and get our stories straight.' He then added, 'Something more to eat before we go down sounds like a good idea too.'

Hermione really did laugh then. 'Oh, Harry! You sound just like Ron. We just had breakfast a short while ago.'

'I know,' said Harry ruefully. 'I've been hungry for months though, and some nice pastries or some sandwiches would really be welcome right now and perhaps a cup of hot chocolate as well.'

As soon as Harry finished speaking, Kreacher appeared with a large plate of piping hot croissants, chicken and chutney sandwiches and steaming mugs of hot chocolate for the three of them.

'Wow, thanks, Kreacher,' said Harry.

Kreacher bowed and said, 'Anything for Harry Potter, sir. You is allowing Kreacher to honour brave Master Regulus.'

Harry was lost for what to say, and while he struggled to find something appropriate, Kreacher popped out again.

When he turned to look at the girls, Hermione just shrugged her shoulders, and Luna smiled. Harry blushed, but then joined the others on the inviting sofa. Soon, the trio were munching on deliciously moist chocolate and almond filled croissants, tucking into sandwiches and drinking their creamy hot chocolate.

'I didn't think I could eat more food,' said Luna in wonder as she bit into her second chicken and chutney sandwich.

'Neither did I,' said Hermione, who was just reaching for her second almond croissant. 'I guess I was much hungrier than I had originally thought.'

Then, turning to Harry, she continued. 'I think we should ask Professor McGonagall to organise a press conference. It's the best way to answer a lot of the questions in one go, and it will allow you to get your version of events out. Then, you can make sure that you get Professor Snape's name cleared once and for all.'

Eating another bite of the almond croissant, Hermione continued explaining her thoughts. 'I think it would also be a good time to appeal to the public and the Minister, mentioning Kingsley by name, even, that you feel it is crucial that Order members are given amnesty from war crime persecutions and that all charges are dropped for the heroes of the final battle.'

Harry nodded. 'You're right, Hermione, this is the one time I can ask for anything, and the Ministry and the public must give it.'

At Harry's mature response, Hermione smiled brightly. 'I'm so proud of you, Harry,' she said, misty-eyed. 'The old Harry would not have listened; he would not have been willing to clear Professor Snape's name and plan things in advance.'

'Yes, well,' said Harry bashfully, 'we've all grown up, and it's not right that you have to keep doing all the thinking or even all the straightening of the mess I get us into. Now that the hunt for Horcruxes and the need to defeat Voldemort is past, I've been thinking about the last year on the run. I'm sorry for being such a prat so much of the time. I've been such an arse.'

'Oh, Harry!' exclaimed Hermione. 'It was just the Horcrux. I understand. Nothing can change the way I feel about you; I love you. You know that, don't you, you great prat? You're the brother I never had.'

Harry was beet red at the end of Hermione's speech, and his eyes were filled with moisture. He even submitted to her one armed hug and returned it with equal fervour.

Luna had been listening to their conversation with quiet thoughtfulness. As they broke apart, she quietly said, 'It is during our most difficult times that we learn who our real friends are. Some stay, some go, and the ones who stay are the only ones who truly matter. I'll never forget that you rescued me from Malfoy Manor, Harry. And I'll never forget that Headmaster Snape protected me as best he could from the Death Eaters.'

Hermione wondered if Luna had always been this way and if she, the so-called brains of the golden trio, had just failed to notice. Luna was still strange, but now, as Hermione listened to her, she realised that Luna spoke with great insight.

Finally, they finished their second repast of the morning, and while brushing off crumbs and drinking the last sips of their cooling hot chocolate, they prepared to face their next task.

Walking down to the Great Hall, Hermione was surprised to see the castle starting to be put to rights by the armies of house-elves. Some were efficiently cleaning debris off the floor, carting off rubble and gathering the fallen masonry. Others were busy cleaning up the shattered remains of windows while yet others were industriously straightening, polishing and doing their best to reposition paintings, tapestries, armour and statuary. Yes, the damage was still not repaired, but the hard-working elves were cleaning and tidying things up as much as possible.

About to step onto the marble staircase, Harry turned once more to Hermione. 'Where shall we go? Who should we talk to first?' he enquired.

'Hmm...' speculated Hermione. 'Perhaps we should try the Headmaster's Office? Professor McGonagall might be there.'

'Good plan,' said Harry and began to walk towards the grand moving staircase that would take them to the seventh floor.

Hermione and Luna followed behind, though Luna seemed to be paying close attention to the castle walls. Perplexed, Hermione asked, 'What are you doing?'

'Can't you hear the castle?' asked Luna in surprise.

At Hermione's blank look and firm shake of the head, Luna explained. 'The stones are humming with magic. I think the castle is getting ready to repair itself.'

At Hermione's shocked expression, Luna went on, explaining in her sing-song voice, 'The castle is sentient. That's how the staircases move, you know.'

Hermione had never even considered this fact. 'I've never heard about that. Why isn't it in Hogwarts, A History?'

'Hogwarts, A History doesn't contain everything about the castle. Besides, you don't pay attention to what's going on around you,' said Luna kindly. 'You always look for rational, logical explanations and forget to pay attention with your inner being.'

Hermione looked sceptical, but she accepted that she was far too rational in general. With a thoughtful frown Hermione finally said, 'Perhaps when we come back to finish our final year in September, you'll tell me all about it.'

'Of course,' said Luna happily. 'I've always wanted to share the secrets of the castle with someone. No one has ever wanted to before, though. Only Professor Dumbledore seemed to know what I meant. Others just thought I was strange.'

Feeling chastised, Hermione did not respond.

Soon, however, they had made it to the seventh-floor corridor. Perhaps it was luck, but knowing now that the castle was sentient, Hermione noticed how the stairs had swung directly to the seventh floor without any wasting of time. Looking across to Luna, Hermione was rewarded with a nod. 'Yes,' said Luna serenely with a smile. 'The castle is helping us.'

The gargoyle had been straightened, but it immediately stepped aside at seeing Harry. 'Acting Headmistress McGonagall has been looking for you,' said the statue helpfully.

They moved past him and stepped on to the spiral stone staircase that moved slowly upwards like an escalator. Reaching the top, Harry knocked on the door.

'Come in,' called Professor McGonagall's fatigued voice.

When Harry walked in, flanked by Luna and Hermione, Professor McGonagall looked most surprised. 'Harry, Miss Lovegood, Miss Granger,' began Professor McGonagall.

She was prevented from continuing by Harry, who suddenly seemed to appear very mature and in control of himself. 'We've been thinking,' said Harry without preamble, with authority. 'We feel that the first order of business for me,' he paused and looked at Hermione, 'is to give a press conference before people have time to concoct their own versions of what happened last night and early this morning.'

At Professor McGonagall's thoughtful silence, Harry continued. 'It's important that there are no lies told neither to the press nor by the press. Hermione and I also think it's really important that we ask for amnesty from war crimes trials. We and the Order have done enough to make the Ministry persecute us if they so desire, and it is really important that we clear our names as soon as possible.'

When Professor McGonagall seemed too stunned at this mature pronouncement to speak, Harry went on speaking in a quiet, yet firm tone. 'We three also feel that it is critical to clear Professor Snape's name, especially from persecution for murdering Professor Dumbledore. Professor Snape was acting on Professor Dumbledore's orders, and he must not be held responsible for his actions. It was necessary, and it is one of the main reasons for my standing here today.'

'My boy,' said Professor McGonagall, her voice choked, tears streaming down her face. Then, pulling herself together, she said, 'My boy, of course, yes, we must clear poor Severus' name.'

As Harry had been speaking to Professor McGonagall, Hermione quietly scanned the portraits of the former Headmasters and Headmistresses of Hogwarts. Professor Dumbledore was pretending to be asleep with a serene expression on his face, but Headmaster Black looked very alert and was paying keen interest to the exchange.

At a lull in the conversation, Phineas Nigellus spoke. 'Finally, a Gryffindor with honour. Mr. Potter, defeating Voldemort was one thing, but working to clear a Slytherin's name, now that is what I call honour.'

'Yes, yes,' said Professor McGonagall, as if realising how she herself had berated and tormented Severus. Then, changing the topic, she said, 'Organising a press conference should not be difficult. I'll Floo Kingsley and organise it at once. I'm sure the Ministry must be holding one this morning, in any case.'

'Indeed,' said Hermione finally. 'That's why we want to speak to the press ourselves. The Ministry has never managed to get the facts straight, and even though Kingsley is the temporary Minister, he can't start by removing everyone that was working for Thicknesse. There are enough pureblood extremists and Voldemort sympathisers in the Ministry to make our saying our bit very important.'

Professor McGonagall was utterly floored by Harry and Hermione's take-charge and mature reasoning. Looking from Harry to Hermione, and then towards Luna, who stood strong and silent beside him, she realised that these were no longer naïve teenagers. These, she realised sadly, were war veterans who were completely disillusioned with the bastions of power and were determined to make sure that their voices were heard. She swore to herself then that she would do her utmost to help them achieve their objectives.

Standing up, Professor McGonagall moved around the large desk and walked toward the great marble fire place. As she stood up, Hermione noticed that Professor McGonagall was still wearing her tartan dressing gown, which was now covered in blood, dirt, soot and a multitude of hex burns and rips. Taking a handful of Floo powder, she threw it into the fire and stooped down to call out, 'Kingsley Shacklebolt, Minister for Magic.'

At Professor McGonagall's call, the head of a young woman wearing wire rimmed spectacles appeared in the fire. 'Headmistress McGonagall,' she acknowledged. 'One moment, please. Minister Shacklebolt will be with you shortly.'

As they waited for Kingsley to appear, Professor McGonagall turned to them and asked, 'Would you like something to drink? I could call for some refreshments or a nice cup of tea.'

'No, thank you,' replied Hermione. 'We've eaten recently.'

Harry was looking at Professor Dumbledore with a strange, intense expression while Luna was quietly murmuring to Headmistress Dilys Derwent. They seemed to be discussing her long silver ringlets and Luna's up-swept hair. As Hermione continued to glance around the Head's Office, Headmaster Black winked at her. Hermione couldn't help but send him a quick wink and smile back. There was just something interesting about the rude and sarcastic, but highly intelligent, Slytherin.

Soon, Kingsley's head appeared in the fire place. 'Minerva,' he acknowledged. 'Is there a problem? My secretary said you wanted me.'

'Yes,' said Professor McGonagall, 'Harry and Miss Granger here would like to call a press conference. They feel it is vital that they get a chance to speak a few words and to answer any questions that require answering.'

At this pronouncement, Kingsley looked intrigued. He then replied, 'Yes, well, the Ministry was going to hold one at noon today; we could include them in it, I suppose.'

At this, Hermione stepped forward. 'Kingsley,' she said, 'Harry and I feel it would be best if we spoke from the Great Hall at Hogwarts. We would like it to be on our terms and not be related to whatever statement the Ministry is putting out.'

Kingsley was starting to see the picture. In their place, he realised, he would do the same. Smiling at Hermione, Kingsley said, 'Don't worry. I'll get my office to inform the press that the conference will take place at Hogwarts. The Ministry will speak and respond to questions after you and Harry have had your chance. Shall we say half past twelve this afternoon?'

Surprised and elated at this quick understanding, Hermione nodded. 'Thank you, Kingsley. We just want to say our bit and thereby avoid as much as possible being mobbed by the press. Harry especially doesn't want Skeeter and her ilk dogging his steps constantly.'

'Perfectly understandable,' said Kingsley pleasantly. 'Now, if you will excuse me,' he added, looking at McGonagall, 'if there is nothing else, I have much to do.'

'Good luck,' said Harry, speaking for the first time to Kingsley. 'I'm glad you are Minister.'

Smiling his warm smile, Kingsley pulled his head out of the fire and ended the connection.

After thanking Professor McGonagall, the trio left her to her work and made their way to the Great Hall. There, while Harry tiredly sat at the Ravenclaw Table resting his eyes and Luna sat, staring at the enchanted ceiling that was re-knitting itself back to its former glory, Hermione got busy organising the space for the press conference.

Hermione first approached a tiny, bright blue-eyed house-elf who was rearranging the Head Table. 'Hello,' Hermione began kindly. 'Are you the elf in charge of the Great Hall?'

'No, missy,' squeaked the elf. 'I be Nippy. I is usually working in the kitchens. The Great Hall is run by Dilly. She be over there by the Great Doors.'

'Thank you,' said Hermione and made her way over to the formal double doors that led in directly from the Entrance Hall. Reaching the elf that was polishing the aged oak and brass-work of the imposing doors, she said, 'Hello, Dilly, I'm Hermione. May I speak to you please?'

'I is knowing who you be,' said the elf, who seemed older, in a disapproving tone. 'What does the leaver of hats want?'

Embarrassed at the bringing up of S.P.E.W., Hermione quickly apologised. 'I'm sorry about the hats; I didn't mean to upset the house-elves. I need help organising the Great Hall for a press conference that's going to take place here this afternoon.'

At Dilly's puzzled expression, Hermione explained. 'A press conference is a meeting of the press where Harry is going to answer questions about the battle.'

Seeming to comprehend the direction of the conversation, Dilly asked, 'How would Missy like the hall arranged?' Then, more cautiously, as if not trusting Hermione, she added, 'Is Professor McGonagall knowing this?'

'Yes,' said Hermione. 'We've just come from the Headmaster's Office.' Then, turning to look at the hall objectively, Hermione continued. 'I think the Head Table is the perfect place for us to sit, but perhaps instead of four House Tables, we could have rows of chairs looking up towards the Head Table.'

'Dilly is doing,' said the elf before vanishing to appear near the other elves sweeping up the rubble near the staff entrance. Soon, all the elves were industriously cleaning and arranging the hall to Hermione's specifications.

Seeing that all would be well, Hermione walked over to Harry and Luna. Glancing at her watch, she was amazed to see that it was only a quarter to ten in the morning. 'We've got time for a small nap,' she said to Harry and Luna. 'I think it would be really good if we could rest before the press conference.'

Harry, who seemed to be nodding off on the spot, could only mumble before wearily getting to his feet.

The three made their way back to Ravenclaw Tower. The stairs once again seemed to be helping, and without much effort, they were at the entrance of the common room. Luna once again responded to the riddle with ease, merely saying, 'I've heard that one in my fifth-year,' before leading the way into the common room.

Hermione turned to Harry as he made his way to the boys' dormitories and said, 'I'll come wake you at eleven fifteen. We need to look presentable.'

Harry just nodded and continued on his way.

Luna and Hermione turned into the first room they found and, without any conversation, took off their robes and shoes before collapsing onto the beds. It's so amazing to lie on soft, sweetly smelling bedding, thought Hermione. Not wanting to destroy her difficult to manage coiffure, she lay on her stomach. Then, turning over to her side, she set an alarm on her wand for ten minutes past eleven before closing her eyes and falling into an exhausted sleep.

The insistent buzzing of the wand woke Hermione and Luna from their far too brief slumber. Their nap had helped refresh them a little, but they both looked like they needed a proper night's sleep. Silently but speedily getting back into their robes, the girls quickly repaired their hair and made their way down to the common room.

Luna turned to Hermione and asked, 'Do you want me to go wake Harry?'

Hermione nodded as she sat down once again at the round table by the window and pulled out her quill and notebook. Hermione had decided that she should draft a prepared statement to make things easier for the press conference.

Harry soon emerged and, while Hermione continued to work, requested for Kreacher to bring a light lunch. Deep in concentration, Hermione failed to notice the activity until Harry pressed a Cornish pasty into her inactive hand.

'Oh,' said Hermione before taking a bite of the still warm pasty. Enjoying the savoury flavour of steak, potato, parsnip and onion, Hermione ate enthusiastically while continuing to scribble furiously.

When she was done, Hermione passed the written statement along the table to Harry and finished her meal. Once Harry had read the statement, they all went over it, perfecting the wording. Drinking deeply from her goblet of pumpkin juice, Hermione looked at Harry. He was reading and re-reading the statement, putting as much of it down to memory as possible. Then, as if feeling her eyes on him, he looked up.

Harry looked at the time which read ten minutes past twelve. This prompted all of them to make their way down to the Great Hall.

As they were walking down the stairs, which once again had swung in a swooping arch towards the Entrance Hall's marble staircase, Hermione suggested to Harry, 'Let's use the Staff Entrance.'

Nodding, Harry led the way to the side entrance which the staff normally used to enter the Great Hall. As Harry walked in, light bulbs flashed, and cheering and clapping commenced. The Hall seemed to be filled with people. Harry was now really glad Hermione had thought of not using the main entrance.

Walking up to Professor McGonagall and Kingsley, who had risen to greet the trio, Harry shook hands with them both. He then waited for Luna and Hermione to do the same. The rest of the seats at the Head Table were filled with Dawlish, the new, but in Harry's mind, incompetent Head of the Aurors, Professor Flitwick, who waved merrily at Harry and the girls and the beaming, kindly Professor Sprout. There were three other foreign looking wizards at the far end of the table, who turned out to be the Ministers for Magic for France, Russia and Egypt. Once the formal niceties were observed, Harry waited for someone to begin the proceedings. Soon enough, once a large number of photographs had been taken, Kingsley began to speak.

'We are here today to present to the world the conqueror of Tom Marvolo Riddle, the self-styled Head of the terrorist organisation known as the Death Eaters, referred to as the Dark Lord, known widely as Lord Voldemort. I give you Harry James Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived.'

Harry grimaced at the introduction, but at Hermione's nudge, he smiled instead. Then, looking up to make sure he was seen by all the press, he began to speak. 'First, I would like to read out a statement that was prepared by me, Hermione Granger and Luna Lovegood. We will then take your questions before handing over the proceedings to the temporary Minister for Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt.'

Glancing quickly at Hermione, who smiled encouragingly at Harry, he commenced reading the statement. 'Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, acting Headmistress McGonagall, temporary Minister for Magic Kingsley Shacklebolt and other esteemed guests and dignitaries in attendance: Today is an important day in the annals of British, and indeed, world wizarding history. Today, I, Harry James Potter, the so-named Chosen One, with the help of my friends, the members of the Order of the Phoenix, members of the Hogwarts Defence Association also known as the D.A. or Dumbledore's Army, the brave house-elves of Hogwarts, some giants, centaurs and other beings, defeated the megalomaniac known as Voldemort. This victory is the result of all our efforts. I would not have been successful if it were not for their help.' Pausing to look around at all the people, especially to glare at Dawlish, Harry continued. 'However, the one man that has had the most difficult task in this long battle against the forces of evil, the one man who sacrificed the most for my eventual victory, is Headmaster Severus Snape. Without his aid from deep within the heart of the Death Eaters, I would not be here before you. Therefore, I would like to request from the temporary Minister for Magic and member of the Order of Phoenix a permanent amnesty for all crimes committed in the name of victory against Voldemort for all the people mentioned above. We as a group have had to break the law in numerous ways. We've had to steal, hex, curse, torture, kill and stand by and watch others do the same to a great number of people. However, these actions were necessary for our ultimate victory. At times, it helped forward our protest against the rule of Voldemort through his minion, Thicknesse; at others, it helped us infiltrate and subvert groups and organisations that were in support of evil incarnate.'

Harry, once again, paused. The Great Hall was silent. This was not what the waiting crowd had expected. Feeling slightly nervous, Harry looked at Kingsley and then Professor McGonagall. Harry's quick glance at Kingsley was met with an almost unnoticeable nod. Feeling buoyant, Harry went on. 'The list of dead, who fought for the Light, is long and is unfortunately still incomplete. Many more names will, I am very sorry to say, be added as the aftermath of the battle of Hogwarts is fully realised. Let us endeavour that their sacrifices are never forgotten. This evil sprang up so very shortly after the horrors of Grindelwald. I hope that this time at least, peace can be found for a longer length of time.' With a final pause, Harry concluded, 'That is the end of our prepared statement. Hermione, Luna and I are now open for questions. Thank you for your patience.'

With that, Harry bowed to the many faces in the audience, then turned and did the same to the rest of the Head Table before sitting down.

There was another moment of silence before the applause and cheering started again. This time it seemed even louder than before. There were raised arms and shouted questions. Pandemonium had literally broken out. Into this chaos rose Professor McGonagall. With a stern glance at everyone, she raised her hands to the crowd. 'Silence, please, silence,' she said firmly. 'I shall indicate when each of you will be allowed to speak. Please introduce yourselves and make it clear to whom you are addressing your question.'

The first question came from a tiny Asian wizard wearing a bright green turban who was sitting in the front row. At Professor McGonagall's acknowledgement, he beamed with pride and spoke. 'I am Harish Singh from The Indian Prophet. Mr. Potter, is He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named really gone? We were told this by the authorities the last time, and he rose again.'

Harry stood up once more. 'Yes,' he said simply. 'Tom Riddle is gone.' He then scratched his head before speaking. 'I'm not sure if I should really go into this, but I think I mentioned it during my confrontation with him, so people have heard about it. Riddle split his soul into eight fragments by creating Horcruxes. This is very Dark Magic, and the last Horcrux that he unknowingly created was me, when he murdered my parents in Godric's Hollow. As long as his Horcruxes existed, he could not be truly killed. That is what Hermione, Ron and I were doing this past year. We were finding and destroying Horcruxes. We had been told by Professor Dumbledore that I could not kill Voldemort until all the Horcruxes were destroyed. Now they are. So yes, he's gone, and he's not coming back.'

As Harry finished speaking, there was a frightened and shocked hush around the Hall. No one present had heard of Horcruxes or the possibility of soul splitting, and they seemed shocked at what Voldemort had done.

Finally, an attractive young witch with fashionable bright blonde hair raised her hand. At Professor McGonagall's nod, she spoke. 'I'm Maryse Estrid Swenson from The New York Oracle. You say you were a Horcrux. Do you still have a part of him in you?'

At her question, there were gasps and even a short scream. Harry laughed. That seemed to bring out a few smiles in the faces of the audience, but most still looked very anxious. 'I was a Horcrux. I am no longer because I allowed myself to be killed by Voldemort without fighting back. If I had attacked, it would not have been possible, but by letting him try to kill me while I submitted willingly allowed him to kill the part of himself that lived in me. I know it sounds confusing and bizarre, but it is true.'

The audience still looked confused, so Harry continued, 'Before I was born, Professor Trelawney, our Divination teacher made a prophecy. It said, "The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies...and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not...and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives...." Voldemort chose to come after me. He could have gone after my friend Neville Longbottom, a pureblood, who was also born at the end of July, but he chose me, another half-blood like himself. It was destined that I would kill him, and to do so, I would have to do it without killing him directly.'

There was still confusion in the crowd, but Professor McGonagall was keen to get the press conference moving. Thus, she pointed to an old wizard in a very elegant top hat, who was seated toward the back of the crowd. 'Humphrey, do you have a question?' she asked.

He must be a friend of Professor McGonagall's, thought Harry as the old wizard stood up and bowed first to Professor McGonagall and then to Harry. 'Indeed,' he said graciously. 'I'm Humphrey DeForest Bogart, from The California Wizarding News. Mr. Potter, you claim that Lord Voldemort was a Half-blood. Didn't his manifesto rest on the need to eradicate impure and tainted blood from the wizarding world? Wasn't he the leader of the pureblood supremacy movement?'

Harry nodded and said, 'Perhaps my best friend, Hermione, can answer that question better.'

Hermione was startled at the way Harry brought her into the spotlight. Grimacing at Harry, Hermione turned to smile at the audience and stood up.

'Hello. I am a Muggle-born,' Hermione began. 'Tom Marvolo Riddle's father was a Muggle named Tom Riddle. He was killed by the young Tom Riddle, the self-styled Voldemort when Riddle realised that his father was nothing but a Muggle. The Pureblood supremacy movement was nothing but Voldemort's effort to eradicate the taint of his father from his past. He hated his father for abandoning his pregnant mother, Merope Gaunt, a witch who had used magic, we believe love potions and spells, to bewitch and ensnare Tom Riddle into marriage. From what we have since learned of Voldemort's past and character, we feel that Voldemort's hatred of Muggles and Muggle-borns stemmed from an inferiority complex. He had been abandoned by his father, and he thought that by killing or at least gaining control over Muggles and Muggle-borns, he would be able boost his own self-worth. That the Pureblood witches and wizards were so gullible as to be taken in by a half-blood maniac clearly shows their desperation in the face of continuing Muggle-born innovation and change within the magical community.'

Hermione's words were met with even more amazement. She would make an excellent lawyer or lecturer, thought Harry fondly. The Hall had been spell-bound by her clear explanation of Voldemort.

Rita Skeeter, who had always disliked Hermione, raised her hand next. At Professor McGonagall's sour-faced nod, Skeeter spoke up. She wanted to take the spot-light away from Hermione. 'Hello, Harry,' she began, as if to show how well she knew him. 'I'm here for The Daily Prophet. You claimed that Severus Snape, the known Death Eater and Headmaster of Hogwarts during the reign of Lord Thingy, the murderer of Dumbledore, was working for the Light. How can that be? You yourself claimed last year that he murdered Dumbledore. Did you lie?' She smiled maliciously as she finished speaking.

Harry, however, did not look in the least bit perturbed. Hermione was again surprised at the sudden change in Harry's personality. Ginny would find the changed Harry most disconcerting, she thought with an inward smile. Ginny was so used to having Harry wrapped round her little finger. The coming weeks were sure to be interesting. Pulling herself back from her musings, Hermione focused once more on Harry.

'Miss Skeeter,' began Harry, making it clear that they were not on a first name basis. 'When I claimed a year ago that Headmaster Snape murdered Professor Dumbledore, I was merely relaying what I had seen on the Astronomy Tower. At that time, I had no idea about the promise Headmaster Snape had made to Professor Dumbledore to kill him or the many reasons behind this brilliant piece of cunning. At that time, I spoke based on what I had seen. I spoke from the knowledge and the information that I was meant to have. At that time, I did not lie.'

Harry sighed before carrying on. 'Now, however, I have learned the true events of that night. Severus Snape had been a spy for the Order of the Phoenix since the time my mother's life was at risk from Voldemort. He knew, despite his request to the Dark Lord to spare his beloved Lily's life, that it was unlikely to occur, so he turned to Professor Dumbledore and vowed to spy for the Order in return for Dumbledore's protection of Lily. Dumbledore failed, but Headmaster Snape did not ever truly return to his master. From the day my mother died, he swore to watch over me and to make sure that I would defeat the man who had killed his childhood friend, his beloved. Severus Snape loved Lily, and his continuing love for her made him the Light's strongest and most steadfast of soldiers. He did whatever was required to defeat Voldemort without fail. Dumbledore knew this, and he used this to ensure that Headmaster Snape's position was impregnable within the ranks of the Death Eaters. With one swoop, all who had questioned Headmaster Snape's loyalty to Voldemort were silenced, and his position to gather information to work towards my victory against Voldemort was assured. I know now that Dumbledore was dying. If you recall, at the start of my sixth year at Hogwarts, Dumbledore seemed frail, and his hand was cursed. That hand was cursed when Dumbledore retrieved one of Voldemort's Horcruxes, and it was only Headmaster Snape's brilliant skill at potions and the Dark Arts that prevented the curse from spreading throughout the rest of Dumbledore's body. However, they could not eradicate the curse; they could merely halt it. On the night of Dumbledore's death, I had gone with him to retrieve what we believed, then, to be another Horcrux. In the effort to retrieve that object, I forcibly made Dumbledore drink many goblets of poison, for that was one of the requirements for removing the object from its resting place. What Severus Snape did that night was merely follow orders, just as I had done. Will you arrest me for murdering Dumbledore by making him drink poison? Will you charge Dumbledore himself, for putting on a cursed object that leached out his life-force?'

As Harry had been speaking, his voice had begun to grow stronger, more forceful. When he finished his tirade, he seemed shattered, as if he was completely exhausted. However, he was not finished. Tiredly, he continued, 'Severus Snape is no more responsible for the death of Professor Dumbledore than I am. He was forced by Dumbledore's ruse to be treated like an outcast, to be hated, mistrusted and despised. It is time it stopped. He is a hero, a real, unsung hero of this very long and exhausting struggle against the most evil wizard of our time. He was a soldier for the Light before my birth, and I, for one, am indebted to him for his courage, brilliance and honour.' Harry sighed. He then added, 'Please direct your next questions to Hermione and Luna. They know as much, if not more, about most of the issues you will undoubtedly have questions for. Thank you.'

As Harry wearily sat down, utter chaos broke out. There was yelling, shouting and loud gasps of shock and surprise. Kingsley and Professor McGonagall looked as alarmed at some of the things pouring out of Harry's mouth as the people in the audience. This press conference, thought Hermione, was a very good idea indeed.

Professor McGonagall once more arose and addressed the now utterly chaotic crowd. 'Please sit down at once,' she said sternly. 'If you wish for this press conference to continue, I insist that you all behave in an orderly fashion.' At her admonishment, most of the people sat down. She continued to glare furiously at the people still standing until they too took their seats. Finally, she called out, 'Next question, please?'

A flurry of hands immediately shot up. Turning towards a dark wizard in brightly striped robes who was seated at the far left of the fifth row, Professor McGonagall invited him to speak.

Pleased, the tall man said, 'My name is Nyennoh Kru, and I am the reporter for The Wagadoogoo News, the main newspaper for West Africa. My question is for Minister Shacklebolt. Is the Ministry for Magic in Britain willing to grant amnesty from war crimes for the people mentioned by Mr. Potter? Will he, especially, grant amnesty to Headmaster Severus Snape for his murder of the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore? Thank you.' He then sat down.

More furious whispering began. Hermione and Harry looked at each other in glee. They couldn't have planned this if they had given the press the questions themselves. Luna too beamed at them both and then leaned over and squeezed Hermione's hand. The three felt especially close after this very public performance. Hermione felt that this morning had been instrumental in building her friendship with Luna. She'd never really had a real girlfriend before. Ginny and she had been forced into friendship through her relationship to Ron, as well as enforced contact and proximity. However, this was the first time that Hermione had had a girlfriend for her sake alone.

Kingsley Shacklebolt stood up and addressed the crowd. 'I don't like being put on the spot, Harry,' he began, with a nod and a jovial tone, 'but for the Chosen One's first public request, I can't very well refuse. Especially when the amnesty Harry so eloquently asks for also applies to me and my many clandestine activities during the war.' Looking sharply towards Dawlish, and then Harry, he continued. 'I will need a full list of D.A. and Order members of course, but yes, I, temporary Minister for Magic, do declare amnesty for all combatants in the name of the Light who fought against the rule of Lord Voldemort and his band of Death Eaters. And yes, before you can question me further that does include the long-time spy for the Order of the Phoenix, one Severus Tobias Snape.'

This pronouncement was met with even more furious whispering and exclamations. The Great Hall was a seething mass of excitement. When the people had fallen silent, McGonagall acknowledged a portly witch in a bright red hat. Smiling broadly, the witch stated, 'I'm Matilda Parish from The Australian Voice. My question is for the young lady, Luna. Did you fight in the battle? How are you connected to Mr. Potter?'

Luna stood up and smiled in her own dreamy fashion. 'I'm Luna Lovegood, and I was a sixth year student at Hogwarts before I was kidnapped by Death Eaters to force my father into printing lies and supporting Voldemort in his newspaper The Quibbler. I have been in the D.A. since its inception, and of course, I've fought beside Harry in battle. In fact, we've fought the Death Eaters on three separate occasions: First, at the skirmish in the Department of Mysteries, then, here at Hogwarts on the night Headmaster Dumbledore died and finally, last night. Friends must stand up and fight for their friends.'

Hermione had never really heard Luna speak at length. She was sure that the waiting audience were in for a startling response.

Luna continued in her sing song voice. 'Why, Hermione, Ginny and I took on Bellatrix Lestrange together before she was finally killed in a duel with Ginny's mother, Mrs. Weasley.' Turning to Hermione, she went on lightly, 'Did you hear Mrs. Weasley calling Bellatrix a bitch when she tried to kill Ginny? That was funny. I wish my mother had been alive to see it.'

Harry and Hermione both laughed. Hermione couldn't help but think that that last remark was vintage Luna. No one would think of making a comment like that at a moment like this, but it was what was needed to turn the conference to a lighter-hearted tone.

It seemed as if the questions had now turned towards the Ministry. As the three teenagers watched, Kingsley made his statement from the Ministry, reiterating the amnesty he had promised Harry before concluding the press conference. More photographs were taken, and many of the crowd immediately dispersed to allow their reports to make it to the front page of their newspapers.

As the trio stood up to depart, Professor McGonagall stopped them. 'Where's Mr. Weasley?' she asked kindly. It was Hermione who replied since Harry was still watching the departing crowd. 'Ron went home with his family. We didn't want to disturb them in their time of grief. Fred...' She paused. Yet again, Hermione was not sure how to approach the topic of Fred's demise.

Professor McGonagall seemed to understand. 'Of course, my dear. A wise choice to leave them to grieve on their own.' Then, drawing Harry and Luna closer together by putting her hands on their shoulders, she said, 'The three of you have done a very fine thing this afternoon. No one else could have asked for and received this amnesty for the combatants for the Light. There would have undoubtedly been some kind of backlash. Harry, I'm especially proud of you for declaring Severus a hero. He deserved it, and I am sorry to say, until you told us what was happening at the final confrontation with Voldemort, that I too had been blind to Severus' true loyalty. He needed to be vindicated. We will start holding memorial services at Hogwarts for the fallen in the coming days, and I'll make sure that he is given a special send off, fitting his long years of service.'

This was the moment that the three had been waiting for. Harry looked searchingly at Professor McGonagall and asked quietly, 'What gave you the impression that Snape was dead?'