"You mustn't be serious, Kingsley. We have recently removed the bonds of one oppressor only to have our freedom taken away by our own government?"
"You aren't that naïve, Minerva. You've seen the data yourself. For that matter, you've seen decreased enrollment at Hogwarts since the first war. If you have a better solution, I'd love to hear it."
Minerva sat down in the chair opposite the Minister of Magic's desk. She pinched the bridge of her nose and closed her eyes tightly, willing some new idea to come to fruition. She knew he was right. She'd been over it at least a thousand times in her head. For goodness sake she'd even tried to talk to Sybil Trelawney about the future. But there are no prophecies for this. There wasn't even an older, wizened wizard with half-moon glasses to consult. She opened her eyes to face the reality of their situation.
"I detest this law, Minerva. I hate that I am the one to enact it. I know I will be reviled. But it is necessary."
"Could it not have waited a year? At least let us all find some sense of normalcy again?"
"We thought about that. I want normalcy as much as anyone. But Minerva, we consulted everyone and it was St. Mungo's who said the sooner we do this, the higher our chances for success. It can take some witches years to get pregnant."
He was pleading with her to understand. He knew that she was now one of the most influential people in their world and her support of this new law would make it more generally accepted. And at least a handful of students at Hogwarts would be subject to the law this year, and more in years to come.
Minerva stood up and readjusted her large hat. She looked at Kingsley and nodded. She understood. They had come this far together and she would not abandon him now that he's the one making impossible decisions.
"You should probably stay away from the Burrow and Grimmauld Place for a while, Kingsley. I suspect it may be a while before you can walk in without being on the receiving end of a hex."
"I believe you are correct, Minerva." Kingsley let out a defeated chuckle. He stood up and offered his hand to her. She took it and they exchanged a look that attested to the mutual respect they had for each other, and an understanding of the burden for the future that rested on their shoulders. Minerva released her old friend's hand and reached for the door.
"You are, however, welcome in my office at Hogwarts, should you find the need."
"I thank you for that, Minerva."