"What was that?"
McGonagall's voice was full of surprise.
"A shattered soul, McGonagall. I'd like to talk to Severus. Could you leave us for a while?"
Dumbledore gazed at the broken ring for a long time before finally speaking.
"Of course, but are you sure you want to do this?"
McGonagall looked at Dumbledore, her eyes seeming to say:
That's not a good idea, Dumbledore. He might hurt you.
"I'm sure, McGonagall. I'll be fine."
Dumbledore smiled weakly. "Snape was the one who saved me, after all. Have you forgotten?"
McGonagall nodded to show she understood, then left her sword in the Headmaster's Office and lifted her skirt as she descended the spiral staircase.
"We have nothing to talk about, Dumbledore," Snape said first. "I'm ready to leave Hogwarts."
"To join the side you once belonged to?" Dumbledore asked.
Snape pressed his lips together and said nothing.
"I'm sorry, Severus. The pain has made it difficult for me to control myself," Dumbledore said apologetically, raising his right hand. "How long do you think I have left?"
"I don't mind what you say, just as I don't mind my past."
Snape glanced at the blackened, withered hand. "Although I've contained the curse in that hand, it's a powerful one, so... a year?"
Dumbledore nodded. He thought for a moment, then suddenly waved his right hand.
A ripple spread through the air, and Dumbledore's right hand visibly began to recover.
"What if it's like this?" Dumbledore asked, looking at Snape.
"Hmph."
Snape scoffed. "The curse will grow stronger over time, so... you might live another two years. But that would mean the Dark Lord saved you."
Dumbledore pursed his lips. "I don't mind owing him a favor, Severus. I taught him once, too."
Snape shrugged, as if to say, do whatever you