Disclaimer: We would like this to stay a splinch-free zone so please remember that the world, life and characters of Harry Potter belong solely to JKR. We are merely borrowing them to satisfy the muse that guides us.

Beware-If flames are sent our floo powder is ready.

~~The Portraits Speak~~

Looks of disbelief overtook Albus and Minerva as his words sunk in. "Oh yes, I had toyed with the idea of having you duel until one of you conceded defeat, but I realized how deadly that could be. Then, I felt that a separation was in order. Unfortunately, that was not a solution to the problem, only a quick fix. Once I saw the way you stared at each other, I had the idea of forcing you to spend that first day together. What a stroke of luck that you were able to work past your differences to discover so much more." Wiping away a small tear from his eyes, Armando quickly dismissed them, but not before urging them to make the most of what little time they had left since the students returned the following day.

The happy couple took their remaining hours and filled them with fun and love. To please Albus, they went outside and built a snow-couple, which he proceeded to enchant. As the frosty couple danced to a tune floating on the breeze, Albus mimicked their movements and shared a winter dance with his bride-to-be. As the day wore on, they retreated to Minerva's rooms where she conjured up a lavish meal for them to share before a crackling fire. After making more of those 's'more' things, as she liked to call them, they snuggled close on the couch as they drank in the scent and feel of the other. They knew that moments like these would be hard to come by once the students returned. Not willing to see him leave, Minerva led the love of her life into her bedchamber. The rest of the night passed slowly as they expressed their love without words but with every single touch and sigh.

The sun was just peeking over the horizon on Monday morning and Albus was already up and conjuring his first cup of cocoa. He was an early riser both because of his older age and because he had always been a morning person. It was the first day of classes and there was always so much to do. He quickly dressed and gathered the items he would need for the day. Breakfast was louder than usual as friends who had not seen each other last night when the train arrived were greeted and Christmas stories were shared. Minerva made a late appearance and looked very much like the stern teacher her students feared and loved. Albus greeted her with a smile and she gave a hesitant smile back.

As she took her seat beside him, Albus couldn't resist sharing his thoughts. "Please, my dear, do not enjoy your strict image too much. I fear that I will be unable to withstand the urge to put a smile on your face-by using any means necessary." A faint blush was his only answer as they went about socializing with the other staff members that were present.

After finishing up in the Great Hall, Albus headed to the staff room and found several colleagues already in attendance. Minerva, who had left before him, was just brewing her morning tea for class, Filius was quietly reading a book that was nearly larger than him and Hagrid who was talking softly to something in his pocket. Albus stepped inside after making eye contact with Minerva and noticed that Professor Binns was sitting in his chair by the fire dozing and Armando was scribbling on some parchment as an owl from the Ministry waited nearby. Soon everyone had arrived and Headmaster Dippet started with the usual routine for the beginning of the day.

"Good morning everyone, I hope all of you had a restful holiday. There are just a few announcements this morning but first Professor Binns has a few updates from the Board of Governors whose meeting he kindly agreed to attend."

There was a smattering of laughter at this statement. Everyone knew how boring the students found Binns' class, especially since some had been his pupils as well, and wondered how he had fared in a meeting that would rival one of his own lectures. However the Professor did not move and finally, after clearing his throat did not work, Armando was forced to move to the chair and shake their colleague's shoulder.

"I am so sorry, what did I miss? Oh yes, the Board of Governor's meeting. It was quite boring but they did want me to pass along a few items of note." As Professor Binns continued to speak, he did not notice the surprised looks or dropped jaws in the audience. When he was finished, he mentioned being late for class and left.

Headmaster Dippet was at a loss. The body of his Deputy still sat in the chair by the fire but his ghost had left through the nearest wall. What did one say in this situation? Luckily he had time to compose himself during the late professor's speech.

"That was rather a surprise turn of events. I must ask that everyone please depart for your classes since I am sure the students will have many questions when they see Professor Binns wandering the halls as a ghost. We will meet here before lunch and I will apprise you of any further details."

As the professors left in groups discussing the recent drama at Hogwarts, the Headmaster asked Albus and Hagrid to stay behind. "Hagrid, I need you to find Professor Binns. We don't want him wandering about upsetting the students any more than necessary. Albus, please go to Binns room and let the students know that class has been cancelled for the day. I need to contact the Board of Governors and his family. We will need a replacement for History of Magic quickly."

As Dumbledore hurriedly walked through the door to the classroom for History of Magic, he stopped short. There sat Binns in all his pearly glory lecturing in the same monotone voice. As with his colleagues a few minutes earlier, he didn't seem to notice the looks of shock pointed in his direction although the fact that everyone was still awake should have garnered some response.

Albus was able to gather his wits quickly and interrupted Professor Binns in his instruction of the class. "Professor Binns, I am so sorry to interrupt but you are needed in the Headmaster's office immediately."

Binns looked up from his podium and scowled. "Very well. I assume you will be watching my class in the meantime." Without a further look in Albus' direction, he floated off.

A sea of expectant faces was looking toward the Transfiguration Professor as he walked to the front of the room. "As everyone has probably noticed, Professor Binns has passed away. Classes are dismissed for today and any additional announcements will be made at dinner."

As a group, the fourth years gathered their books with whispered comments passing among them. Albus knew that rumors would be flying all over Hogwarts within the hour. He decided to head to Armando's office to apprise him of the new situation. If he was lucky, he might make it before Binns was able to get there.

Albus approached the large gargoyle statue that was at the end of the hallway. "Open locks, whoever knocks."

As the large gargoyle started to spiral upwards, Albus stepped onto the stairs and was taken to the entrance of the Headmaster's office. After a knock received no answer, he opened the door and stepped inside. Taking a quick look around, he realized Armando was not present and decided to wait for a few minutes in case he returned.

"Binns is a ghost now, eh?"

Albus started at the unfamiliar voice. He looked around the room but no one was in view. Suddenly, he noticed something different about the office. The portraits that hung on the walls were not snoozing contentedly like they usually did but were instead alert and all looking at either him or the painting of the former Headmaster Phineas Nigellus.

Albus knew the portraits could talk. Armando had informed him of the fact several years ago. But they had never done anything but sleep in his presence. He made a mental note to tell Minerva since she had loved reading Hogwarts: A History when she had been a student. "Professor Binns did pass away this morning."

"Now Albus, surely you can give us a few more details. Dippet left in such a hurry that we didn't get to hear the whole story." Former Headmaster Nigellus was tapping his fingers on the frame of his picture and his bold curiosity could not be disguised.

Albus could do nothing but comply and soon ended his tale of the very eventful morning. Comments were made by the occupants of various portraits during his retelling and he found the situation most amusing.

"How interesting! It was a delight to hear it first-hand especially from someone such as yourself. Perhaps, we could persuade you to be as forthcoming with a story of your defeat of Grindelwald." The new voice belonged to Dilys Derwent and her portrait was practically beaming at him.

"Dilys, fawning over him is quite unbecoming of a witch your age."

"Everard! I only asked to get an account straight from the source. You know how those stories can be expanded upon until they are completely unrealistic."

At this point, Phineas interrupted the spat that had erupted. "I am sure that Albus would be more than happy to share the story at a later date. Now, I believe it is time we went back to our favorite past time."

With his final words, the paintings had all fallen back to their usual snoozing and Albus was more confused than he had been in the beginning. Just as he had decided to leave, the fireplace roared and out stumbled Armando with a rather unflattering observation about the floo system muttered under his breath.

Sensing another occupant in the room, the Headmaster looked up and smiled when he saw his transfiguration professor standing by the door. "Albus, do you have some more information for me? And if I may ask, how did you get into the office?"

"Yes. I wanted to inform you that Professor Binns had gone straight from the staff room to his class and was teaching when I arrived. To answer your second question, the door was unlocked when I arrived and I decided to wait. The former Headmasters and Headmistresses kept me entertained with idle talk until you returned."

A strange look entered the Headmasters eyes but the smile remained on his face. "Ah, I was wondering… Binns arrived before you and asked me what was so urgent that his class was interrupted-quick thinking on your part-although he would not have noticed my surprise. I was just at an emergency meeting of the Governors and we have decided to allow him to continue to teach his classes. Although, someone will sit in for the first few days to make sure everything goes smoothly. An unprecedented decision but it would be nearly impossible to find someone with as thorough a knowledge of history and a willingness to teach."

Albus couldn't resist asking the question that quickly entered his mind. "What about his other duties?"

Looking sharply at the younger wizard, Armando voice became a bit more formal. "He will be removed from his position as Deputy Headmaster. Applications will be taken starting immediately to fill the position."

Albus, sensing the Headmaster's need to finish up with a few items, bid farewell and walked toward the door. He would need to hurry in order to make his next class on time. As his fingers wrapped around the handle, Armando Dippet's voice stopped him. "And Albus, I do hope to see your application during the reviews. And I am not the only one."

Albus stopped and looked back at his colleague and friend. "Do you believe that I would be the best choice for Hogwarts?"

"Do you?"

Walking back down the corridor, Albus contemplated his question and the question that Armando had returned. He completely forgot the look that his friend had given him when he had first arrived and learned that Albus had been waiting for him and conversing with the portraits that covered the walls.

Albus slowly made his way to his office, but not without the occasional student stopping him in the hallway to inquire about the rumor of Binns' death. At long last, he was in the comfort of his own rooms and was able to sit quietly and consider the happenings of the day. He slipped deep into his own thoughts as he pondered what the Headmaster had suggested. Albus had been respected in the wizarding world for years, but being the Deputy Headmaster was another matter entirely. Apparently Armando and others believed that he had the necessary skills to fill the vacant position, but he needed to carefully weigh the implications and changes that would be involved.

It was not until a muggle clock on his mantle chimed one o'clock that Albus realized he had missed lunch entirely and no doubt Minerva would wonder about his absence. However, he had no time to locate her and explain so he decided to wait until after dinner to inform her of Armando's suggestion and to seek her opinion.

Afternoon classes for Albus Dumbledore's students were nothing like they had been subjected to in the past. Watching him move between the rows of desks, his outward appearance led them to believe he was his usual self but his mind was not with them at all. His thoughts were elsewhere and unfortunately, they could sense it. Many of them sat quietly and hoped that whatever had happened would be quickly resolved. His classes certainly lacked humor and spontaneity when he was not himself.

Dinner passed quietly between Albus and Minerva. She had attempted to engage him in conversation but he had answered each question and said no more. She was growing worried. Minerva knew something was bothering him but she also knew he would share his problems with her when he was ready. She would just have to be patient.

The two professors had made a habit of spending evenings together, either working on paperwork, playing games, or simply chatting over tea and cocoa. This particular night, Minerva sat at her desk in her private quarters marking essays from her fourth years while Albus was quietly attempting to read the latest copy of the Daily Prophet.

"Albus, can you believe that some of these fourth year students are still having problems explaining the differences between a real wolf and a werewolf?!"

"Yes, dear. Lovely thought," Albus answered without any enthusiasm or concern in his voice.

Minerva's brows arched as she studied Albus' lack of movement for several minutes. Realizing that he had not turned a page of the paper in over ten minutes, she decided to test his attention to her words.

"Dearest, did I mention that I'm retiring at the end of this week?" Watching for his reaction, she found that she was leaning forward in her chair in anticipation.

"That's nice my dear." Albus still had not moved and his eyes were not scanning the printed page. He was staring at the paper but clearly his mind was elsewhere.

"Albus Dumbledore! I am going to announce our engagement to the entire school at breakfast tomorrow while wearing your Christmas present. What do you say to that?" She felt sure that would bring his attention back to the present and offer her an opportunity to learn the cause of his distraction.

"Wonderful. I'm sure the students will pay attention." Rising from her chair, Minerva came to stand in front of the wizard seated on her couch. He made no effort to acknowledge her presence mere inches from him. It was only when she grabbed the paper from his hands and knelt before him that he was snapped back to his senses.

"I'm so sorry Minerva. What were you saying, dear?" Taking both of her hands in his, he pulled her onto the couch as she snuggled close to him.

"Albus, what has been bothering you all day? First we had that business with Binns this morning. Then you skipped lunch and did not bother to let me know. You were unusually quiet during dinner. And now, I just informed you that I would announce our engagement to the entire school while wearing the gift I bought you for Christmas and all you could say was that my students would pay attention." Flashes from Christmas night ran rampant through their minds and a pale blush colored Minerva's usually pale cheeks.

"Well, my love. You would certainly have all of my attention." The twinkle was back in his eyes and before long he began to tell her about his time in Dippet's office. "I had only been there for a moment or two and the portraits began speaking to me. They asked me questions about Binns as well as my defeat of Grindlewald.  Of course, I answered them politely on the first matter but before I could answer the second question, they decided to return to slumber and soon after, Armando arrived."

A look of disbelief blanketed Minerva's face, yet she continued to listen intently to the remainder of his story. As he recanted his conversation with Dippet, he paused when he neared the mentioning of the Deputy Headmaster's position. Taking a steadying breath, he turned Minerva so that she was facing him.

"Minerva, Armando has suggested that I apply for Binns' position. He led me to believe that there are others, aside from himself, that would like to see my resume. It was as if he was hinting at a conversation with the Board of Governors, but he would not say anything further. I have been preoccupied today because I was contemplating the ups and downs of the proposition. Again, I apologize if I seemed to ignore you today. I've just had a great deal on my mind."

Minerva was smiling at him now and he noticed that her eyes were sparkling. "Dearest, how long has it been since you've read Hogwarts: A History?" Indicating that it had been several years, she began to explain why she had asked the question. "You see, Albus, the portraits in the headmaster's office only talk to the current headmaster and the deputy. It has been that way since the very first Board of Governors was established. I believe that the headmaster has the ability to alter that rule should they see fit. But according to history and legend, it has never been done. By speaking to you, would you not agree that maybe they know something we do not?"

"I had not considered that before now. Something else I had forgotten is that when I mentioned to Armando that the portraits had kept me pleasantly entertained until his return, he gave me a strange look. It was shortly after that conversation that he mentioned the vacant position."

"Albus, that settles it! You have to apply for the position. I believe that you are destined to become the next Deputy Headmaster." Offering a mischievous smile and planting a gentle kiss upon his cheek, she added one last sentence. "And if I had to make a prediction, I would say that you will become the Headmaster in the future."

"Well I am pleased that you have so much faith and confidence in my leadership abilities. I wish I shared your resolve in this matter. But since you are so certain of my future, would you care to make a wager?"

"I am so sure of your future and the fact that soon you will be the Deputy Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, I will take you up on your bet. Now, let's discuss the details of this wager I am going to win!" Snuggling close to him as the fire dwindled to faint glow, the terms of the wager were settled.

The following morning, Albus went to Minerva's rooms to escort her to breakfast. In his hands, he carried a rolled piece of parchment and the twinkle in his eyes was unusually bright.

"Good morning, Albus." Placing a gentle kiss on his warm lips, she slyly took the parchment from his hands and began to unroll the bit of paper. "I am so proud of you and I am sure that the Board of Governors and Armando will be as pleased as I am about your decision." As he pulled her closer to him, she could not help but throw in one last taunt. "And I am definitely looking forward to you taking me to the Quidditch World Cup in Mongolia this year. Just think, dear. We can make a small vacation out of it!"

"Ahhh, you are of course, assuming that you will win this little bet. I feel thankful that you are so confident but I must admit that I have my doubts. In the event that I win, I am looking forward to sharing the political intrigue of the International Wizarding Conference with you. Oh and did I mention that there is always a masquerade ball at the end of the week?  I cannot wait to see what you choose for a costume."

The resume of one Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore was presented to Armando Dippet shortly after breakfast that morning and then both Albus and Minerva tried to push the nervous anticipation from their minds and focus on their teaching.

To Be Continued…

A/N: Whew! Our happy couple successfully dodged the Grim Reaper and Binns gets to continue teaching. So, everyone is happy now, right? Right! Thanks to each of you who took the time to review A New Year's Commitment. We sincerely appreciate all of your comments and suggestions! We've also been hard at work on several one-shot stories and we thank you for reading those as well. Until next time…