To Live History

Chapter 3- Talks of a Smug Nature

The following night, Le-Annette watched from the High Table in the Great Hall as the students filed in. She noticed how Draco's fellow Slytherins were shying away from him. She watched as Ron, Harry, and Hermione walked into the Hall. As they took their seats, they cast worried glances in Draco's direction. Being true to his suave self, Draco gave the trio a reassuring wink.

Finally all the students were in their places, and Dumbledore stood.

"Welcome...welcome back to Hogwarts! I have only a few announcements to make before we dig in to our wonderful feast. I'll be brief with them, as it looks as though some of us are about ready to feast on our classmates. First of all, I'd like to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Le-Annette Zachary!" the Headmaster said, as applause ensued. A few hoots and hollers from the trio, and Draco, also accompanied the clapping.

When the ovation subsided, Dumbledore continued, "Also, I would like to mention--concerning Defense Against the Dark Arts--that the classes will only be taught at night...at the teacher's preference. Furthermore, Mr. Filch has added a few more things to his list of Forbidden Goodies, please consult the list on his office door. And finally, we are having some heavy spell work being done to the Forbidden Forest and, although it has always been out of bounds, if you are caught lurking there, you will be punished. In the past it has been with detention, but in light of the extra danger, it will be with expulsion. So please, do not go into the forest. Now, I'd like to leave you with some very good advice...If it's not broke, don't fix it. Thank you. Let the feast begin."

He sat as the food appeared at the tables. Le-Annette stared idly at the plate she'd yet to fill. As most people would assume, vampires do not eat regular food. Their dead organs can't digest it. She glanced sideways at Dumbledore, who smiled and leaned over to her.

"There's a fresh supply of your food in your rooms," he whispered.

"What kind?" Le-Annette replied, hoping that the subject would not sicken the Headmaster.

"Pig, Cow, Chicken. It comes from the food that we eat," he answered, turning his attention back to his plate.

Le-Annette turned her attention to the student body. Draco was being alienated by his Housemates. This saddened her. This was his last year of school. She didn't want it to be too difficult. She turned her head just in time to notice Snape trying to catch her attention. She inclined her head in a curious pose. He motioned for her to follow him into the room just off the Hall. They both stood and left. Once in the room, he turned to her.

"Don't be too concerned for Draco. He can handle himself," he said.

"Yes, yes, I know. But we should be a little concerned about him. After all, he is still our student," she replied, arching an eyebrow at her fellow professor.

"Yes, I know that too. I just want to make sure that you treat all your students equally. You shouldn't give too much attention to him."

"Now, listen to who's preaching about equality. The man who is universally known to favor his Slytherins over everybody else. You have no right to tell me how to teach. Need I remind you that I was teaching since before you were even thought of?"

"My favoritism is a cover up and no concern of yours, Le-Annette. And your teaching days are long gone. You're starting anew as far as anyone here is concerned. I just thought I'd offer some friendly advice. Now if you'll excuse me, I believe Dumbledore has dismissed the students. I'll be heading to my quarters now. Good evening," he said through gritted teeth.

"Good night," Le-Annette snapped.

______________________________________

She had no need to apparate to where she wanted to go. She ran with her preternatural speed to get to her destination. Le-Annette entered an old, rickety house that was perched upon a hill.

People filled this house. People in masks and hoods. They hissed and threatened to hex her as she passed. She bared her fangs--her invitation of sorts--and was allowed entrance. The Death Eaters knew that she was expected.

She went up to the second floor and barged into the master bedroom, without knocking. The only two occupants--a man who appeared to be very snakelike and his ratlike servant--seemed to be expecting her.

"Le-Annette," the snake man said in a low hiss.

"Lord Voldemort," she acknowledged. She turned to the servant, "And they call you Wormtail, do they not?"

He made no move to reply. He seemed to be shaking with uncontrollable fear.

"Answer the lady," Voldemort said, almost gentlemanly.

"Y-y-y-y-yes, Le-Annette," he said in a low bow.

"Leave us," the Dark Lord ordered. Wormtail scurried very quickly from the room.

"I must say, Tom, that I am surprised by your courteous acceptance of my presence," Le-Annette said once Wormtail had left.

"I will not harm the mate of Salazar unless given reason to. It is my understanding that you just wish to speak with me?"

"Yes. You know of my employment at Hogwarts?"

"Yes."
"I thought that might interest you. Listen, I'm here because there is something that I felt I needed to inform you of."

"And this is?"

"You have a spy within your ranks."

Voldemort smiled. "This I know. But are you willing to divulge the identity of said spy?"

"Yes. Severus Snape."

"I thought as much."

"Very well," Le-Annette said, standing, "I will take my leave now."

And before Voldemort could even think of something to say to her, she was gone.