Chapter 52

Don't Let Go

Harry jumped up from his bed startled when the doors of the hospital wing burst open. Arthur and Molly were striding up the ward, Fleur just behind them, her beautiful face terrified. Ginny placed a comforting arm on his chest.

"Easy baby, everything is okay." she reassured.

Harry watched the Weasleys approach in determination and concern.

"Molly… Arthur …" Professor McGonagall said as jumped up and hurried to greet them. "I am so sorry…"

"Bill," whispered Molly, darting past Professor McGonagall as she caught sight of Bill's mangled face. "Oh, Bill!" Molly said as took one side of the bed and Fleur the other. Arthur stood at his feet Molly bent over her son and pressed her lips to his bloody forehead.

"You said Greyback attacked him?" Arthur asked Professor McGonagall distractedly. "But he hadn't transformed? So what does that mean? What will happen to Bill?"

"We don't specifically know yet," said Professor McGonagall, looking helplessly at Lupin.

"Greyback was a virulent werewolf. There will probably be some contamination, Arthur," Lupin said as he walked over with a limp, his face still scarred from the earlier explosion. "We don't know what his condition might be when he awakens…"

Molly took the nasty-smelling ointment from Madam Pomfrey and began dabbing at Bill's wounds.

"And Dumbledore?" Arthur asked. "Minerva, is it true?"

As Professor McGonagall stood as rigid as ever. "Attacked, but still with us…for now."

Harry felt Ginny move beside him and looked at her. Her slightly narrowed eyes were fixed upon Fleur, who was gazing down at Bill with a frozen expression on her face. He sat up further and scooted back on the bed to make room for Ginny. Then he grabbed her by the waist and lifted her up without any protest. In fact, once she was up she leaned back using Harry as a backrest and raised her hand to gently pull his head to her shoulder and scratch his hair. He kept his arms around her in a hug. This was a hard one for them both.

Molly's first priority was for the worst injured and eldest son; she began to sob, tears falling onto Bill's mutilated face. "Of course, it doesn't matter how he looks... It's not r-really important... but he was a very handsome little b-boy... always very handsome... and he was g-going to be married!"

"And what do you mean by zat?" said Fleur suddenly and loudly. Harry could feel the tenseness in Ginny's body, and he didn't blame it. Fleur continued. "What do you mean, ''e was going to be married?'" Molly raised her tear-stained face, looking startled. "Well — only that —" "You theenk Bill will not wish to marry me anymore?" demanded Fleur. "You theenk, because of these bites, he will not love me?"

"No, that's not what I —" "Because 'e will!" said Fleur, drawing herself up to her full height and throwing back her long mane of silver hair. "It would take more zan a werewolf to stop Bill loving me!"

"Well, yes, I'm sure," said Molly, "but I thought perhaps — given how — how he —" "You thought I would not weesh to marry him? Or per'aps, you hoped?" said Fleur, her nostrils flaring. "What do I care how he looks? I am goodlooking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave! And I shall do zat!" she added fiercely, pushing Molly aside and snatching the ointment from her.

Ginny turned and whispered to Harry. "So… Fleur just scored points with me." Harry nodded and hugged in agreement.

Molly fell back against her husband and watched Fleur mopping up Bill's wounds with a most curious expression upon her face. Nobody said anything; Harry didn't dare move. Like everybody else, he was waiting for the explosion.

"Fleur… if this last year proves anything, it is that things change … and I was wrong. I am sorry."

Fleur kept her eyes on Bill as she cared for him. "We both ache for ze same man. I understand. Forgive me if my accent returns with my emotions."

"Our Great-Auntie Muriel," said Molly after a long pause, "has a very beautiful tiara — goblin-made — which I am sure I could persuade her to lend you for the wedding. She is very fond of Bill, you know, and it would look lovely with your hair."

"Thank you," said Fleur stiffly. "I am sure zat will be lovely."

Harry didn't quite see how it happened, but soon both women were crying and hugging each other. Completely bewildered, wondering whether the world had gone mad, he turned around: Harry looked as stunned as he felt and Ginny and Hermione were exchanging startled looks.

With that moment past Harry finally felt okay to ask his question. "Er.. Professor McGonagall?"

"Yes, Harry," then registrering who actually called her, "Thank Merlin you're awake. How are you?'

Harry shrugged, "You know me. I'm always fine."

He winced when Ginny pinched his arm. "Not tonight… please don't." Ginny pleaded as she nuzzled her head to his. "Shoot straight."

The expression on McGonagall's face indicated she shared Ginny's sentiment.

"Decent?" Harry said trying to be serious this time. "All things considered. Sore all over. Hand seems better." he said looking at the healed injury. "I can tell I cracked a rib."

"Seven." McGonagall corrected. "When Miss Abbott healed your hand she told me that is a new record for you?" McGonagall said with a raised eyebrow.

Harry resisted the joke and just said, "Yes ma'am."

McGonagall reached over and kindly squeezed Harry's shoulder. "Harry, I am certain you and I are going to have to go over very many things in the next few days. I know there are going to be many questions asked of me. If you will forgive me, I think it may help all of us if we could get an account of everything that happened from your point of view."

Harry nodded. "Professor, I'll tell you everything. But respectfully, can I get my recorder quill out and make a paper copy? I really don't want to go over it like twelve times over the next few days."

Ginny and McGonagall both snickered. "That would seem prudent. Certainly," McGonagall said as she took a seat next to him.

"Thankfully," Ginny said, leaning over to grab a backpack off the corner post of the bed. "I thought ahead." She gave it to him. "At least I assume you kept it in here."

"I don't deserve you." Harry replied with a peck into her hair them he grabbed the recorder and a parchment and set them up on the small endable table next to him. He took a breath, knowing this one was going to be long. He squeezed Ginny for comfort, who rubbed his arms holding her for reassurance. "Ron," he called, "We're going to want your account of this too." Ron shook his head awake from his chair and pulled it up. Harry took a breath, squeezed Ginny and began "It started in the Room of Requirement…"

Harry continued to recount his day, from leaving class to the Room, recruiting Tonks, Remus, and Bill, through the Tower and to Hagrid's hut. As he recounted the day, it soon became clear he was the center of attention in the hospital wing. Once done, Ron shared his witness of Draco's and Dumbledore's conversation. Hermione wrapped around his arm in support when he mentioned being magically bound. Every conscious person was gripped by the tenacity of a Harry, who repeatedly led the charge into danger, when he had every right to hide in the Great Hall with the other students, maybe more so.

McGonagall closed her eyes to process everything as Harry took the quill away. "Harry, words like hero are sometimes tossed around too flippantly. But in your case, even 'heroic' would be an understatement. I want you to know from the efforts of you and your squadron, not a single student lost their life tonight. Yes, we had some injuries. But Madam Pomfrey tells me we should have strong recoveries. I will never be able to repay you for your actions tonight. You have my eternal gratitude Harry."

Harry didn't know what to say to that. A pair of strong arms came from behind him and wrapped him in a hug. It wasn't until he spoke that he recognized Arthur's voice saying, "I am so damn proud of you son."

Harry nodded his head to show he heard. "Er… You're welcome?" he said mostly because he certainly didn't want to seem rude. "I'm more concerned with everyone else. How are we? Gin, I know you took some falls-"

"Bruises babe, that's all. I'm fine. I promise." Ginny reassured.

"The only advantage of werewolf constitution is I will likely sleep this off by the morning." Remus said, forcing a small smile.

"Tonks?" Ginny asked, but Harry, Ron, and Hermione all nodded showing their interest.

Emerging from her bed a few rows back Tonks rose with her right arm in a sling and a similar limp as she walked up and joined Remus, taking his hand. "Poppy says give me a few days and I will be back to normal. And I am going to echo Minerva. All of you… just wow…"

"Sarge, for the record, I never wanted command and su-"

"But you're ready." Tonks cut him off. "And you did probably better than I would have."

"I-I-" he started to protest.

"Harry." Molly interrupted.

"Yes ma'am?"

"Shut up."

"Yes ma'am. Ron?"

"I'm fine mate. Bruised ankle from that whip, but I'm walking normal even."

"Hermione?"

Her head still on Ron's shoulder, she smiled at Harry. "Untouched. I'm fine. Thank you."

Harry nodded as Hermione returned to Ron's side and took his arm. Harry swallowed hard but finally asked. "Hagrid?" The room all looked at McGonagall.

Minerva raised a hand to calm them all. "I am told that though his burns are severe, but treatable. Also, that your potion, Harry, is of sufficient strength it is comforting Hagrid during his recovery. Which is expected to be full. Miss Weasley, I am told you saved his life."

This time Ginny stuttered. "I-I-"

Harry then cut her off. "Gin."

"Yeah."

"Shut up."

The crowd chuckled as Ginny squared her jaw and looked at her boyfriend. "You're lucky you're cute."

"Don't I know it." Harry sassed back. Harry took another breath. "Dumbledore? Earlier you said still with us… 'for now'."

McGonagall nodded and most could see she was struggling to maintain composure. "Albus is dying. He has been for about a year now."

"His hand?" Harry asked.

McGonagall nodded. "I am just finding out about this now. I had suspected and feared he was not well for quite some time but I was not aware of the severity of his condition. Albus and his secrets." She took a moment to look off to the side, clearly at least one memory in her mind. "Poppy said the stress of the fall pushed his body past the point of resistance. She believes he is down to hours now."

Harry closed his eyes in grief. He clenched his fist in frustration. Ginny wrapped around it to calm him. "I'm sorry." Harry said. "I swear I fought as hard-"

"Harry James Potter," McGonagall interrupted, staring straight into his soul. Her voice was even but stern, and sincere. "I will listen to every word you have to say today, but I will not listen to you apologize for the actions of another. Severus is the one who cast the hex. Severus is who ought to carry the blame. As I see it, you and Miss Weasley's actions bought Albus precious hours to make final arrangements. That is a valuable thing indeed."

The crowd fell quiet, realizing the inevitable change coming. Arthur gave the next guidance. "There's no way about it. This is going to be a long night. We should each rest as much as we can."

"I'm well enough, Remus and I can coordinate the squad for patrols. We'll keep the watch." Tonks said.

McGonagall nodded. "I think all of us would appreciate that tonight Sergeant, thank you."

The youths began to stir.

"Sit your arses down." Tonks cut them off. "I have an entire squad that can all do standard patrol. You four need to be here."

By comparison to the Howling, injuries were light. There were beds available for those who wanted them. Several of the adults found chairs and moved them where they wanted. Harry was still exhausted and laid back down. Ginny didn't give a damn who was there, she wasn't leaving Harry's protective arms and laid back with him. Both of them closed their eyes, exhaustion did the rest.

Friday, 20 June 1997

It was hours later, the witching hour, when McGonagall woke them both. "Harry, Ginny," she called mournfully. When their eyes fluttered to recognition, she continued. "Albus is asking for you." They both knew what that meant without having to say it and dutifully got out of bed and followed along. McGonagall also woke Ron and Hermione. McGonagall led them out of the hospital. She explained as they walked. "After the Howling, Madam Pomfrey and I agreed to grant an additional class room for the medical ward for space. We're giving Albus what privacy and dignity we can."

They walked across the hall to a second room but with a singular bed, but this one looked like it originally came from one of the dorms rather than the hospital. There with his long white beard and rising and falling on a blue blanket, was the once great Albus Dumbledore. McGonagall nodded to Madam Pomfrey as they approached. The Matron watching several crystal balls she had all scrying various aspects of the Professor. All of them glowed very dimly. McGonagall pressed a hand gently on his shoulder. "Albus, they're here." she said with a nod to the quartet.

His eyes opened and looked kindly to McGonagall. "Thank you Minerva… for everything. Grant us privacy please." McGonagall nodded dutifully as she left and the four of them could hear the hum of the magic as she secured the room behind her.

"Thank you for humoring an old man." Dumbledore said as he waved them closer with his good hand.

"Of course sir," Hermione replied in courtesy. "This is your school."

Dumbledoor nodded. First his eyes came Ginny. "Miss Weasley, this is overdue. But thanks to your efforts, I am at least able to still say this. You and I are on the opposite ends of…. well … many spectrums."

Ginny sensed he could use it so she smiled. "True, sir."

Dumbledore nodded in agreement. "Looking in the light that one is only afforded in the end… I want you to know… I see now… I was wrong … and I am sorry."

Ginny did expect that. She was physically taken aback by it so much she could feel Harry's arm around her back flex to catch her. She wasn't sure if she believed it or not. But she wasn't going to be horrid to him. So with a great amount of willpower she forced out the words, "I forgive you."

Dumbledore closed his eyes and nodded, receiving what it seemed he was looking for. "I agree with the observation that it is you I have to thank for having these hours. And if my memory is true, your feather fall charm was destroyed in your courageous and daring rescue of me. If you look at the end table. There is a silver bracelet with a blue circular sapphire. It is a replacement. And if you forgive my hubris, it is an improvement. It is strong enough to catch, perhaps four people, in free fall." The Professor smiled at the quartet. "It is the last thing I will ever enchant. I would like you to wear it in battle… with my respects…. Crimson Witch."

Ginny reached over and picked up the bracelet. It was beautiful. The silver chain sparkled in the light. She clasped it on her wrist where the old bracelet has shattered. "Thank you sir."

"Miss Granger, never in my life have I ever encountered a mage with the thirst for knowledge as you. That is commendable. I know well that when you first started school you felt you did not belong. I trust by now you have found your place?"

Hermione squeezed Ron's hand and looked at Harry and Ginny. "Yes sir."

"Then Hogwarts has done its duty." Dumbledore nodded in appreciation. "The book is what I wish to leave to you." Hermione walked over to pick up a well worn leather bound work. She opened the cover to read the title. 'Euhemerism: True History Forgotten'. Dumlbledore continued, "I believe the time will come where the only way forward will be to look back."

"Thank you sir." She said quietly wiping away a tear.

The Professor looked at the tallest redhead. "Mr. Weasley… these days, loyalty is often an overlooked, undervalued, and misunderstood trait… by fools. Anyone who could count you as a friend amongst them is a lucky man indeed. To aid you in your role of support, the silver cylinder is yours." Ron picked it up and looked at it. "I know your father has a penchant for muggle things. This is a magical variant of what they call a 'multi-tool'. This device will transfigure to become any tool you wish. Because to be of the most use, sometimes you need the right tool for the job."

Ron nodded, "Thank you sir."

Harry noticed peculiarly, there were no further gifts on the table. But Harry gave it no serious thought. Dumbledor's breathing became more and more labored, the elder finally looked at the last man. "Harry… Master Harry James Potter. Even if it was inadvertently… I have likely… wronged you the most… which is only made worse … by realizing… that you… are a better man… than I."

"Thank you, sir." is all Harry could whisper out.

"I am comforted… by the quality of friends… and partner that you have found. May they make up… for where I fell short." Harry flashed a look to Ginny and then nodded back to the Professor, who continued. "Harry… as you stood… to defend this school tonight… I fear… there will be… another battle coming… a final battle. When that comes… you must lead the charge. When you do… you should have… the full magic of the school with you." Dumbledore spread open his hand. They watched as the Headmaster's signet ring of Hogwarts slide off of his finger and magically levitated to Harry who accepted it. Dumbledore's final act of magic.

"Harry…" the Professor struggled and he started to struggle. The quartet looked to Pomfrey who shook her head sadly, nothing more could be done.

"Harry…" Dumbledore continued. "There is … a seventh horcrux…"

Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing. His pulse raced, he shot forward and leaned over the bed. "Which? Where?"

"Harry… to find the seventh horcrux… you must… look inside…" and the greatest wizard in the world, Albus Dumbledore breathed his last… and died.

"Where?" Harry asked in desperation. "Inside what?" He reached out to shake the Professor. "Look where?!"

"I'm- I'm sorry Harry… he's gone." Madam Pomfrey confirmed with sadness.

"What?! NOOOOO! BRING HIM BACK!" Harry shouted. "He KNEW! One more breath!"

"I wish I could Harry, but it doesn't work that way." Pomfrey consoled.

Ginny wrapped Harry to try to comfort him. "We'll figure it out, Harry. Like we have the others."

"NOOOOO!" he screamed as he fell backwards onto the stone hard, and was quickly surrounded by his friends. "He knew." Harry sobbed. "He knew and he took it to the grave. Had to keep every secret too close for too long. DAMN IT!"

Harry didn't know how long he stayed there. Long enough that Pomfey covered the body and Molly had to take his hand to at least get him off the floor and onto a seat looking out the window. Ron and Hermione took a moment alone. Ginny refused to leave. Their fingers interlaced and her head on his shoulder. She was determined that for once Harry would have someone with him and know it when tragedy struck him.

As the night continued she finally whispered. "Harry, I want to help. I swear. But this is big. I don't know what to do here. What do you need, babe?"

He squeezed her hand back. "This. This is good Gin. Just stick close. Don't let go."

"Absolutely. You are not alone anymore." she promised, wrapping around his arm and resting her head on his shoulder.

The sun was up when Professor McGonagall gently roused Harry from what minimal sleep exhaustion had forced him to take. She was kneeling in front of them, still looking at them with a mix of admiration and care. "I am sorry to wake you Harry, but soon I shall have to see the Ministry when they get here. I'll be meeting with the Heads of Houses. I would like you to join us too. But before I meet them I feel it would be wise to have a private word with you. If you'll come with me…"

Harry stood up, murmured "See you in a bit" as he kissed Ginny's cheek, and followed Professor McGonagall back down the ward. The corridors outside were deserted. It was several minutes before McGonagall spoke.

"Harry, if I may, I would like to make a personal observation."

"Sure ma'am," Harry shrugged, "You opinion, I care about."

McGonagall smiled. "I was quite pleased when I saw you and Miss Weasley started your courtship."

A small grin came to Harry's face. "Thank you ma'am."

"May I offer a singular word of advice?"

Harry was surprised, but continued. "Please."

"As someone who has loved and lost in the past, do not let her go."

Harry smiled. "Wasn't planning on it. Kinda planned the opposite."

McGonagall looked to Harry as they walked and cracked a small smile. "Good."

Harry became aware that they were not heading for Professor McGonagall's office, but for Dumbledore's, and another few seconds before he realized that of course, she had been deputy headmistress... Apparently she was now headmistress... so the room behind the gargoyle was now hers. In silence they ascended the moving spiral staircase and entered the circular office.

He did not know what he had expected: that the room would be draped in black, perhaps, or even that Dumbledore's body might be lying there. In fact, it looked almost exactly as it had done when he and Ginny had walked out last: the silver instruments whirring and puffing on their spindle-legged tables, Gryffindor's sword in its glass case gleaming in the moonlight, the Sorting Hat on a shelf behind the desk. But Fawkes's perch stood empty.

After taking a seat, Professor McGonagall made an odd movement as though steeling herself, then rounded the desk to look at Harry, her face taut and lined.

Harry felt the weight of the new ring on his finger and looking at McGonagall he knew he needed to tell her. "May I say something before we get started?"

McGonagall tilted her head to the side and smiled warmly at him. "Harry, after yesterday, I think you can say anything you want."

The fact Mr. Weasley had told him the same thing after the Battle of the Burrow was not lost on him. He appreciated it very dearly. "Ma'am, Professor Dumbledore's last gift … to me… was this," Harry said as he laid the Headmaster's Ring on the desk. "I don't know if he was confused in the end or… He said there will be another battle coming… a final battle. When that comes I would need to lead the charge."

"You certainly did well yesterday, Harry." McGonagall said.

"And thank you, but I get accused enough of being arrogant-"

"Harry, do not judge yourself by the likes of Severus Snape." she spat the name out like it was the most vile taste to her tongue. "I am neither young, nor a fool, Harry. This war is far from over. If Albus saw fit to give you that ring, then I think it will behoove us all for you to keep it safe for the time being. My ring shares the same charms. When I find I need yours, I know where to find you."

"Yes ma'am." Harry nodded, slipping the ring on to his left hand, his own house ring already accustomed on his right.

"Harry," she said, "I would like to know what you and Professor Dumbledore were doing this year with your private meetings."

Again Harry nodded. "What do you know about Horcruxes ma'am?"

"Nothing. What do I need to know now?" McGonagall asked as she sat back and braced to be briefed. Harry told her everything. From the shock from Slytherin's Locket the summer before to the memory lessons, to walking out on the Professor weeks earlier.

"Thank you for telling me Harry." she said as she looked off into the distance furious. "Again I am going to extend an apology to you Harry. You never should have been put into such circumstances. And especially not alone."

"It's alright ma'am." Harry replied. "I am starting to figure out I'm not alone anymore."

"Good." McGonagall replied. "And as we proceed from here, whichever office I am in. Please remember my door is always open to you. Now, there is another item I would like to inquire about. Last night, you assigned Miss Lovegood to monitor a map of Hogwarts, that apparently tracks the locations of individuals on site?"

"A scry map, yes ma'am."

"Harry, in interest of school security, I need to ask. Where did you obtain that?"

"I made it ma'am." McGonagall looked curiously at Harry. "For reference, there are two, but only two. I have one, the original that my father and the original Marauders made when they were students."

McGonagall rolled her eyes. "That makes so much sense of so many things."

Harry continued. "In the last year I've discovered the spell books of my parents, Sirius too. The process on how to make one was included there. I've refined it since then. You saw the second one last night that we've had Neville monitor. That's how we were able to monitor Draco and discovered his using the Slytherin's Head Boy room and the Room of Requirement."

"And how difficult is it to make one of these maps?"

"Well you either need special charmed equipment that I literally just invented this last term or you need to invest a lot of time walking over every square inch of the area you want scryed."

McGonagall nodded. "So it is unlikely there is a third?"

"Highly." Harry reassured.

"Well, I am happy the two that do exist are possessed by those whom I trust."

"Thank you, ma'am."

There was a knock on the door behind them and Professors Sprout, Flitwick, and Slughorn traipsed into the room. The greatest surprise was Hagrid! Harry barely recognized him. From the top of his head to his cheeks and chin for the first time ever Harry had seen him completely clean shaven and bald. His skin was and angry color of red and pink, but clearly he was well along in his magical healing. "Hagrid! You're alright!"

The half giant knelt down and accepted Harry's hug. "I am 'cause a you. And that Ginny girl a yers. I won't soon forget that. Thank ya."

They stated to sit around a table McGonagall prepared. She again gestured for Harry to have a seat also.

"Snape!" Slughorn spat out, who looked the most shaken, pale and sweating. "Snape! I taught him! I thought I knew him!"

But before any of them could respond to this, a sharp voice spoke from high on the wall: A sallow-faced wizard with a short black fringe had just walked back into his empty canvas.

"Minerva, the Minister will be here within seconds, he has just Disapparated from the Ministry."

"Thank you, Everard," said Professor McGonagall, and she turned quickly to her teachers. "I want to talk about what happens to Hogwarts before he gets here," she said quickly.

"Personally, I am not convinced that the school should reopen next year. The death of the headmaster at the hands of one of our colleagues is a terrible stain upon Hogwarts's history. It is horrible."

"I am sure Dumbledore would have wanted the school to remain open," said Professor Sprout. "I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil."

"But will we have a single pupil after this?" said Slughorn, now dabbing his sweating brow with a silken handkerchief. "Parents will want to keep their children at home and I can't say I blame them. Personally, I don't think we're in more danger at Hogwarts than we are anywhere else, but you can't expect mothers to think like that. They'll want to keep their families together, it's only natural."

"I agree," said Professor McGonagall. "And in any case, it is not true to say that Dumbledore never envisaged a situation in which Hogwarts might close. When the Chamber of Secrets reopened he considered the closure of the school — and I must say that Professor Dumbledore's murder is more disturbing to me than the idea of Slytherin's monster living undetected in the bowels of the castle…"

Harry winced at the reminder of the Chamber … again.

"We must consult the governors," said Professor Flitwick in his squeaky little voice; he had a large bruise on his forehead but seemed otherwise unscathed by his collapse in Snape's office. "We must follow the established procedures. A decision should not be made hastily."

"Hagrid, you haven't said anything," said Professor McGonagall. "What are your views, ought Hogwarts to remain open?"

Hagrid, who had been weeping silently into his large, spotted handkerchief throughout this conversation, now raised puffy red eyes and croaked, "I dunno, Professor... that's fer the Heads of House an' the headmistress ter decide..."

"Professor Dumbledore always valued your views," said Professor McGonagall kindly, "and so do I."

"Well, I'm stayin,'" said Hagrid, fat tears still leaking out of the corners of his eyes and trickling down his clean cheek . "It's me home, it's bin me home since I was thirteen. An' if there's kids who wan' me ter teach 'em, I'll do it. But... I dunno... Hogwarts without Dumbledore..."

"If I may," Harry finally said, which garnered everyone's attention. "I agree with Hagrid. This was the first place I ever called home back when I was eleven. I do hear your concerns regarding the war and children's safety. But think of the Howling. The war is everywhere. Here at least, there are better protections. Here at least, there are teachers like you."

Hagrid gulped and disappeared behind his handkerchief once more, and there was silence.

"Very well," said Professor McGonagall, glancing out of the window at the grounds, checking to see whether the Minister was yet approaching, "then I must agree with Filius that the right thing to do is to consult the governors, who will make the final decision. But my vote would also be to stay. If there are students who seek this school, I will be here to receive them. "

"Now, as to getting students home... there is an argument for doing it sooner rather than later. We could arrange for the Hogwarts Express to come tomorrow if necessary —"

Out of reflex Harry raised a hand. "What about Dumbledore's funeral?" Again the other teachers watched him.

"Well..." said Professor McGonagall, losing a little of her briskness as her voice shook.

"Respectfully, I led our squadron to the funeral of one of their parents. I can't fathom not being present for Dumbldore's." Harry reminded.

"I — I know that it was Dumbledore's wish to be laid to rest here, at Hogwarts. If the Ministry thinks it appropriate," said Professor McGonagall.

"No other headmaster or headmistress has ever been —"

"No other headmaster or headmistress ever gave more to this school," growled Hagrid.

"Hogwarts should be Dumbledore's final resting place," said Professor Flitwick.

"Absolutely," said Professor Sprout.

"If you need help with the Ministry,"Harry volunteered. "I'd be willing to pull a string. The Professor's and I's relationship may have been… strained these last two years… but I agree. He deserves his rest here. And if that is the case you shouldn't send the students home until the funeral's over. They'll want to say —" The last word caught in his throat.

Professor Sprout completed the sentence for him. "Good-bye."

"Well said," squeaked Professor Flitwick.

"Well said indeed. Our students should pay tribute, it is fitting. We can arrange transport home afterward."

"Seconded," barked Professor Sprout.

"I suppose... yes..." said Slughorn in a rather agitated voice, while Hagrid let out a strangled sob of assent.

"He's coming," said Professor McGonagall suddenly, gazing down into the grounds. "The Minister... and by the looks of it, he's brought a delegation. Harry, unless you wish to remain."

"I don't ma'am." said Harry at once. He had no desire at all to see Scrimgeour today. "You are excused. You have earned a rest. Find some, or at least breakfast." said Professor McGonagall as she waved her hand toward the door and held it open for him.

All lessons were suspended, all examinations waived. Monday after supper Luna made the rounds summoning the squadron to the training hall. Where Tonks, Remus, McGonagall, and Hagrid all waited. Happily, Hagrid's skin had faded to a healthy color and the shadow of hair was starting to show again.

"At ease," Tonks began. "I have bad news, medium news, and I have good news. I will start with the bad. I have been informed that when our captives; Lestrange, Rowle, and the Carrow siblings were transported from D.M.L.E. holding, they never arrived at Azkaban. Logical deduction is the aurors transporting them were compromised in one fashion or another."

Several cadets, led by Neville, couldn't resist holding their tongue in frustration. Harry couldn't blame them.

Tonks continued. "I know. I know." she said, nodding her head and raising her hand. "But we beat them once. We'll do it again. Now medium news. Professor McGonagall has asked for our squadron to maintain patrols this week and to be security for the Express return to London. We have sufficient staff, I don't foresee a problem. But I am informing you now that while there may not be classes, you still have duties. Heavy is the head of those who choose security work."

Tonks gave it a moment, then moved on. "Now I have discussed this with Professor McGonagall. For valor of service, all cadets in the A.C.T. shall be awarded your N.E.W.T.s in Defense of the Dark Arts. Neither of us could think of any test that could come close to what we just went through."

The squad applauded and cheered. The cheeriest several of them had been in days.

Tonks gave them a moment with a smile, then continued. "Don't think I don't have more to teach you though. Next we focus on getting you ready to pass your badge exams. So for that, all cadets are hereby promoted, everyone to Cadet 1st Class."

More hoot and hollers.

"Except for Potter," Tonks clarified with a wink. "Harry, you now rise to Senior Cadet." Harry bit his tongue and nodded as Ginny elbowed him in the ribs playfully.

The Sergeant stepped back and Professor McGonagall then stepped forward. "A year ago, I admit I was uneasy about the idea of students training for the war. But I chose to walk in faith, to not be afraid." she looked over to Harry bluntly. "I am so very glad I did. I will not blindly overlook the incredible efforts of the excellent cadets in this class. But especially for the answering above and beyond the call of duty expected of any student; Miss Lovegood, Miss Bones, Mr. Longbottom, Miss Weasley, and Mr. Potter you are hereby granted Special Awards for Services to the School."

The squad cheered again. Until McGonagall cleared her throat. "Finally, Mr. Potter, I know you are going to hate this and frankly, I don't care. Step forward."

Harry could feel the eyes of everyone on him but did as he was ordered and stood at attention in front of his Headmistress.

"Master Harry James Potter, for acts of courage and bravery, in the defenses of your fellow students and faculty involving risk of your very life, the Ministry of Magic is proud to award you the Minister's Medal for Gallantry." McGonagall opened the black leather cases, then levitated the silver circular medal on a blue ribbon and lowered it around Harry's neck. "I know I have already said it, but I will again. Thank you so very much Harry. We are all very fortunate to have you."

Harry decided the moment was getting far too serious, so he opted to inject some levity. He flashed a cocky grin. "At your service. Ma'am."

Some students were hurried away from Hogwarts by their parents over the next couple of days — the Patil twins were gone before breakfast on the morning following Dumbledore's death, and Zacharias Smith was escorted from the castle by his haughty-looking father. Seamus on the other hand, refused point-blank to accompany his mother home; they had a shouting match in the Entrance Hall that was only resolved when Harry stepped in. "Ma'am, this week, your son is part of the security team watching over all of us. We - I, could really use his help." Mrs. Finnigan's expression of fear and anger instantly welled with tears of pride and respect. Seamus flashed Harry thumbs up behind his mum's back while they hugged and Harry backed away.

Some excitement was caused among the younger students, who had never seen it before, when a powder-blue carriage the size of a house, pulled by a dozen giant winged palominos, came soaring out of the sky in the late afternoon before the funeral and landed on the edge of the forest. Harry smiled and watched from a window as a gigantic and handsome olive-skinned, black-haired woman descended the carriage steps and threw herself into the waiting Hagrid's arms.

Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione spent all of their time together. The beautiful weather seemed to mock them; eventually each of them came to tears… though admittedly Harry cried last.

Ginny herself gave up any pretense of even staying in her actual dorm room for the last week. She packed her trunk early and moved into Harry's room. Harry welcomed her with open arms. Sometime either late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning she rested on his arm and looking at him, Harry finally summoned the courage to ask the inevitable question. "Is this getting too dangerous for you?"

Ginny looked confused for a moment. As if Harry had spoken a foreign language out of nowhere.

Harry continued, trying to be clear. "I don't want to lose you…ever. But losing Dumbledore I admit changes the view of the war. If-"

Ginny leaned over and kissed him fiercely, deeply, passionately. She wanted to pour her entire life's worth of feeling into that lad, maybe then he'd understand. When they finally broke apart she still pressed her forehead together and kept her arms around him. "I love you, I am in love with you, and I know you feel the same. I chose this a year ago. I choose this every day, with every kiss. I will always choose this. You are Master Harry James Potter. You made me Lady Ginny Weasley. I am not afraid. Never even ask again."

Harry nodded in agreement. "Okay…agreed. What do you need, Gin? You're my top priority. How do I help you through this?"

Ginny brushed her hair behind her ear. "It's no secret that I didn't like the man." She sighed. "But he was on the right side of the fight, and he didn't deserve that. And even I can see that he meant a lot to a lot of people. We just saw behind the curtain more than most." Ginny thought for a moment staring into her favorite emerald eyes. She finally went to her standby. "Just hold me." She said wrapping around him. "And don't let go."

Harry kissed her back. "Babe, I think we are making that Rule 6 at this point, 'Don't let go.'"

They visited the hospital wing twice a day. Bill remained under Madam Pomfrey's care. His scars were as bad as ever — in truth, he now bore a distinct resemblance to Mad-Eye Moody, though thankfully with both eyes and legs — but in personality he seemed just the same as ever. All that appeared to have changed was that he now had a great liking for very rare steaks. "... so It is lucky 'e is marrying me," said Fleur happily, plumping up Bill's pillows, "because ze British overcook their meat, I 'ave always said this."

"Yes, yes he is." Ginny honestly said with a smile to her future sister-in-law.

Finally the last day came. The Hogwarts Express would be leaving an hour after the funeral. As he had for Mrs. Abbott's, Harry played the role of the pillar of strength… the singular role his history had made him an expert for. Downstairs, he found the mood in the Great Hall subdued. Everybody was wearing their dress robes and no one seemed very hungry. Professor McGonagall had left the thronelike chair in the middle of the staff table empty. Hagrid's chair was deserted too; Harry thought that perhaps he had not been able to face breakfast, but Snape's place had been unceremoniously filled by Rufus Scrimgeour. Harry accepted they would need to meet at sometime and they both exchanged nods from afar. Harry spotted the red hair and horn-rimmed glasses of Percy among Scrimgeour's entourage. Given the nature of Percy's position, Harry kept distance and faked annoyance.

Harry's thoughts were interrupted by a nudge in the ribs from Ginny. Professor McGonagall had risen to her feet, and the mournful hum in the Hall died away at once. "It is nearly time," she said. "Please follow your Heads of Houses out into the grounds. Gryffindors, after me." They filed out from behind their benches in near silence. Harry glimpsed Slughorn at the head of the Slytherin column, wearing magnificent, long, emerald green robes embroidered with silver. He had never seen Professor Sprout, Head of the Hufflepuffs, looking so clean; there was not a single patch on her hat, and when they reached the entrance hall, they found Madam Pince standing beside Filch, she in a thick black veil that fell to her knees, he in an ancient black suit and tie reeking of mothballs.

They were heading, as Harry saw when he stepped out onto the stone steps from the front doors, toward the lake. The warmth of the sun caressed his face as they followed Professor McGonagall in silence to the place where hundreds of chairs had been set out in rows. An aisle ran down the center of them: There was a marble table standing at the front, all chairs facing it. It was the most beautiful summer's day.

An extraordinary assortment of people had already settled into half of the chairs; shabby and smart, old and young. Most Harry did not recognize, but a few he did, including members of the Order of the Phoenix: Kingsley Shacklebolt; Mad-Eye Moody; Remus comforting Tonks, her hair miraculously returned to vividest pink; Mr. and Mrs. Weasley both who nodded in acknowledgement and appreciation to Harry; Bill, supported by Fleur and followed by Fred and Angelina and George.

Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione filed into seats at the end of a row beside the lake. People were whispering to each other; it sounded like a breeze in the grass, but the birdsong was louder by far. The crowd continued to swell; with people he was happy to see… and others less so.

Cornelius Fudge walked past toward the front rows, his expression miserable, twirling his green bowler hat as usual; Harry next recognized Rita Skeeter, who, he was infuriated to see, had a notebook clutched in her hand, and then, with a worse jolt of fury, Dolores Umbridge, … was lucky there was a plethora of witnesses.

The staff was seated at last. Harry could see Scrimgeour looking grave and dignified in the front row with Professor McGonagall. But then he heard music, strange, otherworldly music, and curiously started looking around for the source of it. He was not the only one.

"There," Ginny whispered in Harry's ear as she pointed to the clear green sunlit water. He saw them inches below the surface: a chorus of merpeople singing in a strange language he did not understand, their pallid faces rippling, their purplish hair flowing all around them. He couldn't help but think of the last time he encountered them and looked to Fleur, who was already looking at him. They shared a nod in shared memory and respect. The music made the hair on Harry's neck stand up, and yet it was not unpleasant. It spoke very clearly of loss and of despair. Even they were sorry for Dumbledore's passing.

Hagrid was walking slowly up the aisle between the chairs. He was crying quite silently, his face gleaming with tears, and in his arms, wrapped in purple velvet spangled with golden stars, was what Harry knew to be Dumbledore's body. Ron looked choked but determined. Tears were falling thick and fast from Hermione's eyes who was gripping Ron's hand. Ginny fell again sobbing onto Harry's shoulder and Riddle himself couldn't have moved his arm from around her.

They could not see clearly what was happening at the front. Hagrid seemed to have placed the body carefully upon the table. Now he retreated down the aisle, blowing his nose with loud trumpeting noises that drew scandalized looks from some, but Harry knew that Dumbledore would not have cared. He tried to make a friendly nod to Hagrid as he passed, but Hagrid's eyes were so swollen it was a wonder he could see where he was going. Harry glanced at the back row to which Hagrid was heading and realized what was guiding him, for there, dressed in a jacket and trousers each the size of a small marquee, was the giant Grawp, his great ugly boulderlike head bowed, docile, almost human. Hagrid sat down with Olympe Maxime on his right and his family on his left. Grawp patted Hagrid hard on the head, so that his chair legs sank into the ground. Harry had a wonderful momentary urge to laugh, but was happy for the respite.

And then, without warning, it swept over him, the dreadful truth, more completely and undeniably than it had until now. Dumbledore was dead, gone..., but he could not prevent hot tears spilling from his eyes: He looked away from Ginny and the others and stared out over the lake, toward the forest, as the little man in black droned on... There was movement among the trees. The centaurs had come to pay their respects too. They did not move into the open but Harry saw them standing quite still, half hidden in shadow, watching the wizards, their bows hanging at their sides.

The little man in black had stopped speaking at last and resumed his seat. Harry waited for somebody else to get to their feet; he expected speeches, probably from the Minister, but nobody moved. Then several people screamed. Bright, white flames had erupted around Dumbledore's body and the table upon which it lay: Higher and higher they rose, obscuring the body. White smoke spiraled into the air and made strange shapes: Harry thought, for one heart-stopping moment, that he saw a phoenix fly joyfully into the blue, but next second the fire had vanished. In its place was a white marble tomb, encasing Dumbledore's body and the table on which he had rested.

There were a few more cries of shock as a shower of arrows soared through the air, but they fell far short of the crowd. It was the centaurs' tribute, a warrior's respect. Then he watched them turn tail and disappear back into the cool trees. Likewise, the merpeople sank slowly back into the green water and were lost from view.

Harry looked at Ginny, Ron, and Hermione: Ron's expression of anguish looked like the sunlight was blinding him. Hermione's face was glazed with tears, but Ginny was no longer crying. She met Harry's gaze with the same hard, blazing look that he had seen when she had hugged him after winning the Quidditch Cup in his absence, and he knew that at that moment they understood each other perfectly. He reached over and rubbed her cheek. "I love you."

She leaned her cheek into his hand. "I love you too."

"Harry!" they heard and turned to the voice. Scrimgeour was limping rapidly toward him around the bank, leaning on his walking stick. "I've been hoping to have a word... Do you mind if I walk a little way with you?"

Harry looked at Ginny on his arm, seeking her opinion. She shrugged, clearly not caring. "I've been expecting you, sir." Harry said, not bothering to keep waking. "I trust you have at least read Ron and I 's statements."

"Yes, I trust you received your medal?" Scrimgeour asked. "Minerva said you were not one for recognition, but she insisted. And she felt if she was forcing it upon you, you'd receive it better than her than I."

"I did, and thank you, sir." Harry nodded, "and thank you for your efforts with the Aligned Houses."

"You have my respect, Harry…and my gratitude." Scrimgeour replied.

Ginny looked up to Harry with an expression clear as day.

"Permission to test that theory, sir?" Harry asked.

"What do you need?" Scrimgeour asked.

"If you can believe it, I hear things." Harry grinned.

Scrimgeour smiled and nodded. "I am not a fool nor am I surprised."

"Well from what I hear, sir, Riddle's power is tied to two heavily enchanted items. If we want to win the war we need to find them and destroy them. I need to find Ravencrofts diadem and something called Crying Lightning."

Scrimgeour stood and thought for a moment. He looked out and up to the peak of Astronomy Tower. "This was a dreadful tragedy. I cannot tell you how appalled I was to hear of it. Dumbledore was a very great wizard. We had our disagreements, as you know. But I do try to learn from my mistakes. And if anyone deserves it, it is you Harry. I'll handle it." Scrimgeour offered his hand.

"See that you do," asked Harry warily as he shook it.

Scrimgeour bid them bye with respect, then turned and limped away without another word. Harry could see Percy scowling and waiting impatiently, and the rest of the Ministry delegation waiting for Scrimgeour.

Ginny let Scrimgeour get out of ear shot before saying anything. "Did you really just tell the Minister of Magic what to do?"

"Yes," Harry grinned. "Yes, I believe I did."

"Sexy." Ginny purred.

They met up with Ron and Hermione and together they went to meet Molly and Authur, who made it quite clear to all of them that hugs were not optional that day. Harry was concerned Molly might crack a rib.

"We are so very, very proud of each and every one of you." Arthur said as they gathered, hugging each of them in turn. He looked around and when he was relatively certain they weren't being watched. He spoke in a much more hushed tone. "There is an Order meeting tonight. You were going to use that floo anyway. Why don't you plan to stick around for it?"

The four youths exchanged looks and nods but agreed to plan for that. They mingled for a bit longer but finally duty called as they loaded their trunks and ushered the students onto the express. Harry dressed in his tactical black because frankly it was comfortable and he was getting used to it. As he did the patrol on the train, which was simple by comparison he was regularly stopped, thanked, and often hugged by grateful students. While not normally Harry's preference, he understood people just needed it. And if he was somehow the comforter, he would take that hit. It was a far milder crown to bear than others he had.

It was another twenty minute walk to Grimmauld Place where the Weasleys were already there. In fact as they made it up to the meeting room they noticed the full order was already there, Now with Moody sitting at the head of the table.

"I'm sorry," Harry said. Was the train later than you expected?"

McGonagall smiled. "Not at all Mr. Potter, If anyone is familiar with that train's schedule, it is I."

Kingsley clarified, "There were two pieces of Order business we wanted to get done before you were here."

Harry shrugged. "Ah, well don't let me interrupt."

Snickers filled the room. Harry could tell there was a joke in the air that he wasn't privy too.

Kingsley continued. "The first order is, with Albus's passing, we wanted to confirm the new head for the Order. Now the Order did agree there were two strong candidates, but-"

"I don't want it." McGonagall said with a smile. "Hogwarts is more than enough for me."

Kingsley chuckled, "Ultimately, we are at war. So the best head at the helm would be our most seasoned veteran, Captain Moody."

"Oh." Harry said with a nod and smile. "Yeah, for what it's worth, I agree."

"Told you," Tonks said with a smile.

Moody smiled like he did after any time he was able to stop one of Harry's big hits during training. Admittedly it made him look a bit younger and even… kind of happy?

"My first order of business was to correct a mistake that has been overlooked for far too long. And I want you to know, Potter, this passed by unanimous consensus, even Molly agreed."

"Well, it's time. Undeniably." Molly said as she smiled and wiped away a tear.

"Er, time for what? I feel like I'm missing something here?"

Arthur rose with a smile and pulled out the chair on the far end of the table from Moody. "Master Potter, we all think it's time you had a seat at the table."

Harry was shocked. Ginny had to actually give him a shove forward, which generated a tutter of laughter. Harry more fell into the chair than sat. The members around the and the rest of the Quartet all clapped welcoming Harry into the Order of the Phoenix. "All right… well then… let's get to work."

The Wizard War will be concluded in

Book 3: The Rule of Riddle