A/N: Good morning all. How are you all? The Americans among you are probably a little tired after last night, but that's okay. You can read this and then go to bed. I'm not going to get into politics, other than to say well done both parties, but yey for Obama! lol Anyway, here is the new chapter. Took us a little longer than I thought, owing to Mothers, and NaNoWriMo (13724 by the way! Yey again!) but we're here now.

Thanks, as always, to Spin who is awesome and wonderful and the best beta anyone could ask for….but seriously, she's mine, so hands off bahahah. Anyway, enjoy :D

-0-

Poppy was not necessarily a professor in the sense that the others were, but today she sat with them in Minerva's living room holding the baby, waiting for Minerva to start talking. She could tell that whatever she had to say was going to be quite profound, for she hadn't seen Min's eyes sparkle like this since she had come to her office seven years ago, raving about a small First Year with the intellect of someone far beyond anything she had seen before.

She knew it was Hermione Granger's disappearance that had prompted this meeting and she just hoped that with all the professors here the students would behave themselves. There had been very few altercations in the last couple of months, but when they did happen they were on such a huge scale it was frightening. At present, one Slytherin was still in the hospital wing from a nasty hex that one of the older Ravenclaws had learned during the so called 'Dark Arts' classes. Needless to say there were many tears, apologies, meetings and letters home once he realised what he had done. However, after various detentions and suspensions, it now seemed as though they would become firm friends and it was not uncommon for them to spend most of the afternoon helping each other with their studies. That did not negate the fact that people were still hurting though, and Poppy knew what Minerva was like. Now she seemed to have a renewed vigour and Poppy was anxious to find out what such an enthusiasm could do for them.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," she began finally, making eye contact with each of them as if warning them of the severity of what she was about to say. "As some of you may know, it has recently come to our attention that we have," she paused as she seemed to struggle over the words, "misplaced one of our greatest students."

Poppy sat back with her charge, happy that the baby was asleep. It appeared as though Álainn was fearful of anyone that was not Minerva and Poppy couldn't help but smile at the thought. Minerva had never got the chance to become a mother, and yet here she was, doing a most admirable job in the hardest of times. She shook her head to clear her thoughts as she tuned back into the meeting.

"It is unacceptable for things to go back to the way they were. I know that you are all aware of what occurred at the beginning of term, and I for one will not stand for that to happen again. The culprit was taught a spell that he did not fully understand, and consequently used it on another when he was slighted but couldn't predict the results. However, that is not what is most important at this meeting. The important thing here is that we recognise that the students, and yes, some of us as well, are hurting. We are all still in mourning, but my friends, it has been six months, and while we must never forget what happened, we must move on. You and I know how hard it is, for most of us have done it before, but these students were mere children, forced to fight in a war meant for adults and they do not have the tools to deal with their hurts. WE are going to teach them how to do it."

Poppy watched as many of the staff smiled and nodded. Clearly she was not the only one thinking that life had started to stagnate under the heaviness of the ramifications of war. They needed a 'shot in the arm' as the Muggle saying went. And she was quite sure Minerva was going to be the one to give it to them.

"We will start with the students, but we must look beyond that. We must change the world, ladies and gentleman, one child at a time if we have to, so that we may never see the Dark times we have recently faced again."

There was much nodding and smiling as the words fully sank into everyone's minds.

"I want you to start with the older students first. I understand that the majority of your time is taken up with your classes, but this is just as important, if not more so than teaching them facts. This is life, and they are in desperate need of some grounding lessons. I want you to meet with them, the Heads of House will organise a schedule for it. I, myself, will meet with all of the Houses at one time or another. Work your way down through the Years, and then begin again. I do not mind how you go about it – I imagine that what works for the Ravenclaws will not work for the Gryffindors, but you must never give up, because these are the people we fought for. These are the people that will one day become the leaders of our world and they must be ready for it."

Poppy smiled at her friend as she caught her eye. She had been right, Minerva could spin the most rousing speech when she chose to and she knew that her colleagues had been motivated by her words.

"What of Miss Granger?" Filius asked, his hand unconsciously moving to Pomona's, no doubt seeking comfort from his wife at the thought of the once vivacious young woman who had seemingly vanished without trace.

"There are a number of people currently searching; Ronald Weasley and Harry Potter among them. I believe Mr Potter is in France, and after our last conversation it has been suggested that Ronald travels to Australia. While her parents are no longer there, they still legally own the house they were living in. If he does not find anything then I will continue my search, though by all accounts it is thought that she is now in Australia."

"Of course," he said with a nod.

"And what about those of us that did not fight in your war? What should we do?"

If it wasn't such a heartless comment, Poppy would have perhaps chuckled at the dark look that passed over Minerva's face. Madam Roberts was possibly the most ridiculous professor they had ever had on staff and she seemed to want to prove it to everyone.

"Miss Roberts, are you a witch by chance?" Minerva asked, her voice dangerously quiet and calm. Poppy and the other professors who were previously acquainted with Minerva shifted in their seats, very aware of the tone Minerva used when she was at her angriest.

"Of course," she said, flicking her ridiculously blonde hair. "I'm here, aren't I?"

"Then I will remind you that many of my friends died protecting OUR world in what you so called our war. If I ever hear of you denigrating my friend's memories in such a way again, then you will be out of this castle quicker than a centaur's arrow, do I make myself clear young lady?"

"Yes, Professor McGonagall."

Poppy had to bite her lip to stop herself from laughing at Madam Roberts' sullen face. Not one of the remaining, or for that matter any of the new professors looked sorry for her. Clearly her time overseas had not done her much good after all.

"Good. Now for goodness sake grow a spine, my dear. You will help me with the Slytherins, seeing as you are the Potions professor. You can help me get through to them."

Poppy was aware that the young woman spent very little time in the Slytherin quarters, preferring to spend her time in Hogsmeade instead, and she knew that Minerva's suggestion was in part as much a punishment as her dressing down was.

"Now, in addition to this, I feel Quidditch must continue and although I am loath to mention it, I suggest a competition between mixed teams."

Poppy laughed as Severus' portrait started to protest, but Minerva silenced him with a glare.

"Severus, I do not particularly like it any more than you do, however, I think having the Houses battling it out against each other is not a good idea in light of recent events, hmm?" she asked, not waiting for an answer. "Rolanda, if you could perhaps set that up? Mandatory mixed teams. Perhaps have everyone sign up in positions only, and then we can put together the teams at random?"

"No problem Min, though the stadium will need to be fixed before we can let anyone in there."

"Not to worry, that is my task for tomorrow. Anyone that is free can join me."

There was general agreement before Minerva sat on the edge of her desk, suddenly looking weary. Poppy glanced at her, trying to sooth a rapidly waking child and she couldn't help but wonder if she could somehow feel Minerva's sorrow.

"We cannot let things remain as they are. Not for a moment, not anymore. I will not lose any more students to this damnable war." Everyone paused as Álainn started to whimper, then cry in earnest as she realised she was not in Minerva's arms. "And on that note I believe our meeting is finished, thank you for attending. I will catch up with each of you over the coming weeks."

Poppy waited for the majority of the teachers to leave the room before standing and passing the sobbing child back to Minerva, who soothed her gently but quietly as if she had been doing it all your life.

"You are very good with her, especially for one with so little practice," Poppy said tenderly, smiling as Minerva looked up, shocked that she had remained.

"I expect that is partially on the shoulders of this very tiny young lady, who is quite good to me."

"She is indeed," Poppy agreed happily and watched them for a moment. "I wondered if we might do an age test on her," she suggested cautiously. "I do not think she's a newborn, though she might just be a big baby. She seems to be growing at a slightly quickened pace, and while I'm almost certain there is nothing untoward happening, it is rather disconcerting to see her grow noticeably, even if only a little, overnight."

Minerva looked from Poppy to the now contented baby in her arms, and Poppy could practically hear the gears turning in Minerva's head as she took in the new information and weighed up the pros and cons.

"All right," she said sitting on the sofa, so Poppy could work at a better angle.

"Okay, I'm going to have to take a little blood, but it shouldn't hurt her; just a small prick on her heel and we'll heal it right away, but she may wriggle."

Minerva nodded and adjusted her grip, pressing Álainn's face against her chest and resting her lips against her downy hair.

"I understand, we're ready."

"Okay, here we go."

Minerva watched as Poppy pierced the skin on Álainn's heel, and let her wriggle a little against the sting.

"Easy sweetheart, I have you," she said raining kisses down on her head and stroking her back through the initial discomfort. "There, that wasn't so bad, hmm?" she soothed, rocking back and forth gently.

"Right, it should only take another minute or so."

Poppy waved her wand in a series of complex manoeuvres, chanting over the tiny speck of blood which was now spinning in the air. Minerva watched, completely enthralled by the piece of magic that she had never seen performed before as Poppy withdrew a piece of parchment and placed it on her knee, motioning for the drop to land in the middle.

Runes formed and Poppy muttered to herself as she did the calculations in her head.

"Well, this test seems to indicate she is exactly eight weeks and five days old."

"Oh, did you hear that sweetheart? Eight weeks old. That begs the question of course, where on earth were you for the last two months before you appeared in our corridor, hmm?" Minerva said, rubbing her nose against Álainn's.

"Well, I am glad we could clear that up. Would you like me to wait for you? It is almost time for dinner."

"I will be fine, but if you are agreeable you could come back afterwards and have a glass of wine with me and perhaps bring Pomona and Rolanda too if they are not on duty. We have not had much time to talk of late. In the meantime, however, I believe I shall take a walk to the Gryffindor common room. Miss Weasley expressed a wish to spend a little time with Álainn if I was so inclined."

"Ah, well, I imagine she is predisposed to handling a baby with ease, and I shall definitely speak to the others. I will see you at dinner," Poppy said with a smile as she left her friend's rooms.

-0-

Minerva took Álainn's blanket, tucking it tightly around the baby, and shrunk a toy and her bottle too, placing them in her pockets before setting off towards the common room she had been in charge of for so many years.

"Evening all," she said quietly, smiling at a few of the bolder students who waved, and at those who simply stared in awe.

"Hi, Professor," Ginny said, immediately making her way over. "Can, can I hold her?"

Minerva chuckled and handed the baby over to her before looking around for the person she was eager to talk with.

"Miss Weasley, where is Miss Brown tonight?"

Minerva saw a shadow pass over Ginny's face and she motioned up to the dormitories with her chin. Just as Minerva was mounting the stairs she remembered the toy and bottle, sending them over to Ginny with a silent spell and a grateful smile.

"Miss Weasley, if you could be so kind."

She was quite sure that whatever melancholy had settled over the youngest Weasley would evaporate in the wake of such a responsibility. She knew that Ginny would take care of Álainn and that the baby would not get passed around like a plaything. The babe would stay safely in those sure hands until she returned from the task she intended to fulfil.

"Miss Brown, may I enter?"

Lavender was sitting looking rather forlorn on a bed by the window, watching the waning daylight. Minerva had only spoken to her once before, choosing to let Poppy talk her through the darkest parts of her new life. That would change today.

"I was wondering if we could talk my dear. I realise that I am no longer your Head of House, though I was for many years and I believe I know you well enough to hold my own," she said with a small smile.

"It's okay Professor," she said quietly. "I won't bite."

Minerva chuckled at the girl's sense of humour. The attack by Fenrir Greyback had scarred her deeply, yet it wasn't the physical scars that she was worried about.

"I am certain that I am in no danger from you, Miss Brown, though that is not what I am talking about. I would like to know how you are doing."

"Why?"

Minerva sighed, rubbing the bridge of her nose and feeling that familiar sense of failure creeping over her as she realised in the wake of her own mourning the extent of just how much she had neglected her students.

"Miss B– Lavender, I am only here to try and help. If you do not want or need any help from me, then I am happy to listen. And if you do not want to talk, then we shall sit here in silence, but I will not leave until I am satisfied that you understand that you are not alone in this." She brought the girl's eyes to meet her own and saw that they were indeed a little more wolf-like in the rapidly darkening light. "Nor will you ever be. We will help you through this, no matter how long it takes."

Minerva had observed the once fickle girl over the many years she had taught her, but none of what she had ever seen could prepare her for what happened next. Lavender's eyes changed back to her own and she broke down, clinging to Minerva's robes like a small child and after a moment of shock, Minerva held the girl tightly, soothing her tears and helping her on the first step to healing. After what seemed like an age there was a knock at the door before Ginny walked in, holding a fussy Álainn.

"I'm sorry, but I think she's sick of me now."

Minerva chuckled as she untangled her arms from Lavender and held out her arms for her child. She blushed as she caught herself thinking like that. Álainn was by no means 'her child'.

"She's beautiful," Lavender said between hiccups as Ginny knelt by her side, holding her hand. Minerva smiled as she turned slightly, letting both young women coo over the baby, now content with gumming on her hand and kicking her legs, no doubt happy to be back in Minerva's arms.

"Aye, she is that," Minerva said quietly, fixing them both with a stern, yet soft look. "If either of you need me, you are to come straight to me, do you understand? We professors, as your guardians, have been remiss over the last few months and I want you to let everyone know that this is going to change. Miss Weasley, we're going to start a Quidditch competition. Mixed Houses, mixed teams. Start thinking about who you can persuade to play, the more the merrier. Teams will be picked at random so we can have an even spread across the Houses. Miss Brown, stay close to your friends my dear, and do not hesitate to come to me for whatever you wish. I am also quite happy to let you talk to Professor Dumbledore's portrait about your ailment. I realise it is not quite the same, but he was very much a part of Remus Lupin's time here, and I'm sure Miss Weasley can pass on any questions you have to her brother. He is, after all, going through a similar situation."

She smiled as she stood, watching the two girls nodding.

"I want you to let the others know that none of you have to do this alone. If it takes us the next ten years, we will work on this. I'm counting on you two, and the rest of your Year to lead by example. We're going to start doing things differently; we're going to start changing people's attitudes, helping them to get through the darkest part of war – the aftermath. Be honest with us and above all, do not despair. We have won the war. Evil is vanquished. We are now healing the wounds it has left us with."

She winked as she left the room, smiling as a much more confidant Neville Longbottom held open the portrait for her.

"Thank you Mr Longbottom, I believe Miss Weasley and Miss Brown will need your help with something if you are free."

"I'll make sure to catch them, Professor," he said with a nod.

Minerva smiled as she walked away, humming quietly to Álainn as she did. Pausing for a moment to let the staircases reset themselves, she looked out of the window and over the grounds, taking a mental catalogue of the remaining repairs to be made.

"We shall need to mend the stands tomorrow my darling," she said quietly, nuzzling the baby's soft cheek with her nose. "I think though you should perhaps stay with Poppy, for its quite cold, my Álainn. I do not want you ill. Come, we shall ask one of them tonight, but now we must make our way to dinner."

-0-

As agreed, the four witches made their way back to Minerva's rooms after their evening meal, eager to talk about all that had happened and what was occurring. There seemed to be a fresh energy in the castle after the Headmistress had addressed the students at dinner, announcing her ideas, and the new Quidditch competition. There were a few mutterings, but on the whole, the students recognised the need for change, and perhaps they were just excited about the prospect of a Quidditch competition that they could all compete in. A number of the younger students had come up to her asking her if there could perhaps be a league for the younger students and she'd promised to talk to Madam Hooch later about it.

"Look at you, Miss Minerva!" Rolanda said as they entered her rooms. "You look like a real mother, you know."

"That's because she is one," Poppy retorted, smiling at her friend. "She's really quite good at this baby lark."

Minerva sighed and rolled her eyes at her friends banter. It seemed to be a favourite pastime of theirs to tease her occasionally and she wondered if she should just put up with it as she held the bottle under her chin for a moment as she wiped some excess milk from Álainn's face.

"Leave her alone," Pomona said quietly, watching with a smile. "I'd say she's doing an amazing job."

"She is still here," Minerva said sternly looking up, causing them all to laugh quietly as they waited for the baby to finish her feed. "I think for your slight you can burp her," Minerva said with a smirk as she passed the baby off to Rolanda, who stood staring at the little thing for a moment like she was going to explode in her hands.

Taking pity on her, and much to Minerva's annoyance, Poppy joined Rolanda, making sure she held her right, and showed her how to wind her properly.

"Don't let her push you around little one," Minerva said, stroking her hand over the little head and sitting back down with her wine. They often chose Muggle alcohol for nights such as these, finding its effects were a little less pronounced than fire whiskey.

"How is it really going with Miss Granger?" Pomona asked carefully once they were all settled and Álainn was fast asleep in her cradle.

"Honestly?" Minerva asked, taking a fortifying sip of her wine. "I don't know. I was so caught up with doing this job, and then Kingsley's as well, not to mention mourning too I suppose, that I didn't get around to speaking to her. I only know bits of what they went through from Harry's letters and a few snippets that Severus was able to give me. I never imagined she would run away though," she said sadly. "She used to be able to share with me whatever it was that was troubling her."

"War changes people, Min," Rolanda said with a shrug and Minerva nodded her agreement.

"Do you know where she is Albus?" Poppy asked, looking up at their former leader and friend.

"I do not," he said with as much regret as a portrait could summon. "And if I did I would most certainly tell you."

-0-

They talked about school related issues for quite a while before Rolanda commented on the state of the National Quidditch League, when three out of the four witches launched into a heated discussion, leaving Poppy to ponder just how much war changed people. She looked at her friend, -the friend that had been her colleague for many years, and noticed the changes wrought upon her. She was older, with more scars – Poppy knew this first hand, having been the only one permitted to treat her wounds – but she was changed in other ways too and mostly because of the tiny bundle of blankets, little Álainn, who was currently grumbling as she tried to kick her covers free.

"Min will come over here and tell you off for doing that," she cooed quietly, trying not to wake her up any more than was necessary to untangle her tight fist from the blankets. As the little eyes cracked open and caught a glimpse of the medi-witch the crying started and Poppy couldn't help but laugh.

"She truly could be yours, you know. She despairs at the sight of me."

Minerva chuckled as she took the baby in her arms and rocked her gently.

"That is hardly fair, Poppy. I do not despair when I see you, rather when you raise your wand and tell me that I simply must stay still so you can check my health."

They all laughed at that, disturbing Álainn again.

"I am afraid our night is over ladies," Rolanda said, Vanishing the few empty bottles to the kitchen along with the glasses. "Our Min here has family matters to attend to."

They chuckled as they said their goodbyes, leaving Minerva alone with the still crying baby.

"Come along you, I think it's time for a bath if you're going to be crotchety all night," Minerva said once the door had closed.

She had learnt from her previous mistake on the first day of giving the baby a bath, so this time she Transfigured a bath on top of the counter, small enough to comfortably hold the child while she bathed her in the warm water without straining her back.

She rolled up her sleeves before taking her little charge back into her arms and lowering her into the water.

"There now, see how nice that is?" she said quietly, holding Álainn tightly in one hand and using the other to pour the warmth all over her skin. "Don't tell anyone, but it is one of my favourite pastimes," she said pressing a kiss to the hand currently reaching for her face. "There is nothing I enjoy more than a nice, long soak in the bath with a good book." She laughed as Álainn managed to grab onto her nose and she nibbled on the tiny fingers, making her little one giggle. "All right, all right, and a glass of wine."

Álainn squealed in delight, kicking her legs enthusiastically and soaking Minerva's hair and most of her robes.

"Thank you, beautiful," she chuckled, wordlessly summoning a towel. "But, I didn't say I wanted a bath right now."

She wrapped the child up, cradling her close as she let the water out and cleaned up the mess with a flick of her wand. Álainn seemed quite happy, as she usually was, to simply cling to Minerva's robes tiredly. She sat in the rocking chair she had moved to her room, finding the rocking motion soothing to both her and the baby after a long day in the castle. She rocked slowly, lethargically; content to merely enjoy the peace and quiet.

"Let's go to bed," she whispered after a time, letting Álainn down gently into her cot. "Goodnight, my sweet Álainn."