It was a beautiful day outside with the sunshine sparkling merrily upon the surface of the lake and a soft breeze blowing through the leaves of the womping willow. Though through the eyes of Minerva McGonagall the world, a world at war and without Albus Dumbledore had nothing nice to offer at all. With a sigh she turned away form the widow and returned to clearing off her desk, in preparation for her move into the office of Headmistress of Hogwarts.
As she deposited the last of the papers into the nearby wastebasket something startling pulled her out of her stupor. There before her eyes had appeared an envelope addressed to a Miss Minerva McGonagall Headmistress in the beautiful flowing script of Albus Dumbledore. With hands that trembled she drew the letter towards her, broke the seal and began to read.
My dearest Minerva,
If you are reading this letter then I must regretfully have passed from this life. I am truly sorry that even in my long span among the living that I never was able to fully admit the feelings that I have for so long had for you. I want you to know that I loved you with all my heart and I know now that you felt the same way, for only one who truly loved me could have made this letter appear.
We must not of course dwell on the past and what is done is done. Instead Minerva, we must turn to the future of Hogwarts and to the outcome of this war. The Order must carry on with you at its head, yes Minerva you, do not second-guess my decisions. You know of course that throughout this past year I have been giving private lessons the Harry Potter, these lessons have been about giving him the keys to defeat Voldermort, keys which may be found only in his past.
I have felt for most of this year that my time had come and that I was not going to be the one to determine the outcome of our greatest battle. That is why I am writing to you in the hopes that you might be able to continue the work I have begun with Harry. Two things are of the utmost importance. One, Harry must return to the Dursleys', the magic in blood is strong. Two, Hogwarts must remain open; students how many few there may be must always attend this school, for it too is a weapon against Voldermort.
Also remind Harry, as well as, his friends that the most powerful magic in the world is love. Guide him Minerva, as I have tried to guide him, and please persuade Molly and Arthur that the rest of the family must join the Order (except Percy of course) along with Harry, and Hermione, only then can we even attempt to ensure their safety. The rest I leave in your capable hands you will see that my work is completed, as you always have.
Love,
Albus Dumbledore
With the letter at an end Minerva finally allowed the tears that had formed in the corners of her eyes fall not even noticing that the parchment had been charmed to repel her tears.
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