Chapter 1
The Sunset

	Relaxing in a recently conjured lawn chair, Harry Potter suddenly had a sense of feeling out of place, as though something was happening that was not supposed to be happening. The feeling only lasted a second, however. He quickly realized what it was, as heıd had it several times a day since coming to the Burrow from Hogwarts a week ago: it was summertime, and he was happy.
	He smiled to himself as he wondered how long it would take for him to get used to the idea. Here I am, he thought, sitting outside in a lawn chair with Ginny, watching the sunset on a nice, warm summer evening, living in a house full of the people I feel closest to in the world. Last year on this day, he recalled, he was at 4 Privet Drive, surrounded by people who disliked him and who he disliked, isolated, and mourning the loss of his godfather, Sirius Black, for whose death he had felt responsible.
	The thought caused his smile to fade, though he had long since accepted that he did not bear sole responsibility for what had happened. He still felt sad at having lost Sirius, but the feeling was now tempered by the certain knowledge that though Sirius was dead, his spirit still existed in a way Harry did not exactly understand. He knew now that no one who died was truly gone, since Albus Dumbledore had died a little over two weeks ago, but still had conversations with Harry as he slept. Harry didnıt know how it worked, nor did he really care; what was important was that Dumbledore was not gone from Harryıs life, and that Harry now knew from direct personal experience that death was not the end of existence.
	Ginny moved her head up from where it had been resting on his shoulder, and kissed him lightly on the lips. ³What are you thinking?² she asked.
	³About how nice it is that I can kiss you any time I want,² he replied, knowing his answer would both please and annoy her.
	³I meant before that, as you know very well,² she responded, though obviously happy with his answer.
	He looked at the sunset again as he answered. ³About what I was doing exactly a year ago right now, and it made me think of Sirius. I should ask Albus what Sirius is doing now.²
	³Whatever it is, itıs probably something we couldnıt understand all that well,² she mused. ³But at least heıs there, somewhere. Iım so glad you get to know that.² She rested her head on his shoulder again as he squeezed her shoulder gently.
	³Me, too,² he agreed. ³And Iım still having trouble adjusting to being happy in the summer, but I suppose Iıve had worse problems.² He paused, then after a minute, continued, ³Funny how I never really stopped to look at sunsets before.²
	³Must be one of those things having a girlfriend does to you,² said Ron with amusement, having just walked up behind them. ³Next thing, youıll be picking flowers and writing her love poetry.²
	³That would be nice, but Iım happy with him the way he is,² said Ginny, looking at Harry rather than Ron. Harry looked up at Ron in mild annoyance, then leaned over and gave Ginny a lingering kiss, only partly to annoy Ron. She enthusiastically returned it, then looked up at her embarrassed brother and added, ³Feel free to do that any time, Ron. It seems to work out well for me.²
	³Yes, I see that,² responded Ron dryly. ³Not that you two need much of an excuse. I think Mum sent me out here on purpose. She said something about wondering whether you could keep your lips off each other long enough to come in for dinner.²
	³Bet she was smiling when she said it,² said Ginny confidently.
	³I wasnıt looking at her face, but it wouldnıt shock me,² conceded Ron. ³I swear, Iıve never seen her so happy as when sheıs talking about you two. You could start ripping each otherıs clothes off in the living room, and sheıd say, Œlook at them, theyıre so cute.ı²
	Ginny grinned at Harry mischievously. ³Letıs give it a try, find out for sure.² He smiled but said nothing as they got up and headed to the house.
	After a few steps, Ron gestured behind them. ³Harry,² he said, pointing to the lawn chair. ³Mumıs already mentioned about you leaving conjured furniture lying around. Surprised you didnıt say anything,² he added to Ginny as Harry took out his wand and caused the chair to disappear.
	She shrugged. ³I donıt care if he leaves stuff lying around. Iım not going to nag him.²
	³Wow, now thatıs true love,² said Ron with raised eyebrows. ³Get that in writing, Harry. See if you can work it into her part of the wedding vows.²
	³To love, honor, cherish, and not to nag, till death do us part,² joked Ginny.
	³And then, only for a while,² put in Harry. Ginny smiled at him as they walked into the house.
	³Ah, making plans to be together after you die, I see,² said Ron, shaking his head. ³Is that something you can do?²
	³Not sure, Iıll have to ask Albus,² said Harry. He hadnıt thought of it before, but now he wondered how that worked. ³If we can, then I feel kind of bad for him. He could move on and be with his wife, but heıs hanging around to help me.²
	³Didnıt you say heıs comfortable where he is?² asked Ron.
	³Yes, he did say that, and apparently his wife wonıt have to experience the passage of time to wait for him if she doesnıt want to,² explained Ginny. ³But he has to, so Harryıs right, itıs really good of him.²
	They were greeted by Pansy and Hermione as they stood in the living room, waiting for Molly to announce that dinner was ready. ³Itıs so funny how you call him ŒAlbusı all the time now,² commented Pansy.
	³I guess when youıre a spirit, words like ŒProfessorı or ŒHeadmasterı donıt quite have meaning like they used to,² said Harry. ³It would just seem silly.² Harry almost added that Snape still referred to Dumbledore as Œthe headmaster,ı but at the last second didnıt, as mentioning Snape was a reminder of his duties helping Snape that most of the others werenıt allowed to know. ³So, is Neville coming tonight?²
	Just as Harry finished his question there was a small explosion in the fireplace, and Neville walked out. Hermione walked over and took his hand, then answered Harryıs question. ³Yes, itıs Mondays and Fridays, and whatever other days I can pry him away from there. And I go there one of the weekend days.²
	³You know Iıd be here pretty much all the time if it was just up to me,² said Neville. ³I sort of feel left out as it is, being the only one of the six of us not here.²
	³Itıs not such an awful thing, Neville,² pointed out Ron. ³It just means youıre not a Weasley and your lifeıs not under dire threat. And Mum did offer, you remember. Iım sure itıs not too late to change your mind.² Harry recalled the conversation at the dinner table the previous Friday in which Molly had extended the offer to Neville. Neville had explained that heıd have liked to accept, but he didnıt want to leave his grandmother all alone. Watching Hermione during that conversation, Harry had the impression that the topic was one on which theyıd disagreed; Harry wondered whether Hermione and Nevilleıs grandmother were having a tug-of-war over Nevilleıs time.
	Molly walked into the room. ³Hello, Neville, dear. Ronıs right, of course, but itıs sweet of you to think of your grandmother like that. Dinnerıs ready, everyone.² They trooped into the dining room, where Arthur was already sitting at his usual spot. He greeted them as they sat down.
	³How was work, Mr. Weasley?² asked Pansy. He raised his eyebrows at her. ³Sorry, Arthur,² she corrected herself. Molly and Arthur had asked all the non-Weasleys to use their first names, as all were of age, or soon would be.
	³Just the usual,² he sighed. ³Youıd think, with Voldemort still around and killing, people would find better things to do than mess around with Muggle stuff, but apparently not. Today someone went to a Muggle shop that sells brooms, and turned them all into brooms that can fly. Not even very original, and of course they fly very poorly, so if a Muggle even triedŠ anyway, we didnıt get the one who did it, but weıre keeping our eyes open.²
	³So, I guess you do a lot of Memory Charms, then?² asked Neville.
	Arthur grunted as he chewed a mouthful of chicken. ³Thatıs putting it mildly. If they paid me by the Memory Charm, weıd be rich. Iıve done it so much that I can tell if itıs been done to someone recently even if I didnıt know it was done. Thereıs a certain look, itıs very subtle, like they were thinking of something but canıt quite remember what it was.²
	³You must be pretty good at it, then,² said Neville.
	Arthur smiled but said nothing. Ginny answered, ³Sure, he is, Neville. I mean, we canıt remember­²
	Ron burst out laughing as Molly interrupted Ginny with a frustrated, ³Please, Ginny, you know how long it took me to get your father to stop saying that, now donıt you start.² Harry noticed that Arthur was trying hard not to laugh.
	As his laughter faded, Ron said, ³Well, we have to explain it to them, they donıt know what this is about.² Molly shook her head and gave her daughter an annoyed look. Ron continued, ³Itıs a joke Dad always used to make. Lots of people would at some point say what Neville said, and Dad would say, ³Well, the kids canıt remember all the times I beat them, so I guess so.²
	Harry, Hermione, Neville, and Pansy all chuckled. ³The thing is,² said Harry, ³if Arthur was like, say, my uncle Vernon, it wouldnıt be funny.²
	³Exactly, thatıs why itıs funny,² agreed Ginny. ³Everyone knows Dadıs the type that would never do that. It was never that funny to us kids, but only because we heard the joke so often. Ron only laughed because he knew it would annoy Mum.²
	³Such fine, wonderful children I have,² said Molly in a humorously wounded tone. ³One tries to annoy me, the other laughs at it. Theyıll have Harry doing it before long.²
	³Well, you know, Molly,² said Harry, ³We only tease the people we like. I really enjoyed it last year when the other teachers and the Aurors teased me, because I knew it meant they liked and accepted me.²
	³Iım so pleased to be Œacceptedı by my children,² said Molly, sounding earnest but obviously sarcastic. ³Itıs always been a dream of mine. Thank you, Harry, for helping me to see that.²
	Harry smiled, pleased that she was teasing him now. ³No problem.² He then saw the gleam in Ginnyıs eye that he had come to know meant that a teasing remark was coming. Usually it was directed at him, but he didnıt think it would be this time.
	³Ron, donıt you think that Hermione, Pansy, and Neville should be more Œacceptingı of Mum?² she asked.
	Ron and Arthur laughed. ³Absolutely,² agreed Ron.
	³Sorry, Molly,² said Hermione. ³Iıve never even been all that Œacceptingı of my own parents.²
	³Good for you, dear,² replied Molly.
	³Me neither,² put in Pansy, though she looked as though she wished she had the sort of relationship with her mother that Ginny had with Molly.
	³If I ever tried to be Œacceptingı of Gran, I would really regret it,² said Neville. Harry exchanged looks with Ron and Ginny, knowing that what Neville had said was possibly an understatement.
	³Well, she struck me as a very sensible lady,² said Molly approvingly.
	³So, Neville, how does she feel about your spending so much time over here?² asked Arthur casually. Neville looked slightly alarmed at the question, and Harry saw Hermione and Molly react. Apparently Arthur had unwittingly stumbled onto a sensitive subject, Harry thought.
	Neville thought for a few seconds. ³I guess you could say she has mixed feelings. Sheıs happy that I have Hermione, and the rest of you for friends, and Iım sure she understands that itıs very tempting for me to want to come over, since everyone else in the group is here. But sheıs not used to me being gone so much in the summer, and I guessŠ it makes her feel like Iım leaving or something. Iım not sure, she doesnıt say it exactly.²
	³I can certainly understand how she would feel,² said Molly. ³I know the time will come when this house will be empty, and Iım not looking forward to it. Thatıs one of the reasons we had the bedrooms done this way, Iım hoping itıll be a dormitory for visiting grandchildren.² Upon returning to the Burrow after the end of the last term, Harry, Ron, and Ginny had been surprised to discover that one of the changes made to the Burrow in May and June had been that walls had been taken out and four upstairs bedrooms had been made into two larger ones. Harry and Ron were now occupying one, and Hermione, Ginny and Pansy, the other.
	None of the teenagers were inclined to comment on the topic of Nevilleıs situation, but Ginny seized on the mention of grandchildren; Harry wondered if she was trying to change the subject. ³So, Mum, how soon did you want those grandchildren?²
	Everyone grinned, including Molly, to Harryıs surprise. ³I can wait,² she replied. Looking at Harry, she added, ³I donıt know if you were trying to tease me or Harry with that, but it looks like you really got him.² Harry realized that his face must have been red.
	³I was just thinking,² said Hermione, ³it would be interesting if in, letıs say five years, all the Weasley children were married, and each couple had a child the same year. Eleven years later, they could fill up a Gryffindor dormitory, especially if they were mostly boys or mostly girls.²
	³Oh, Hermione, youıre just getting my hopes up,² said Molly. ³That would be lovely.²
	³But they wouldnıt all necessarily be Gryffindors, would they?² asked Ron. ³I mean, we all were, and you two were,² looking at his parents, ³but suppose you had twenty grandchildren, they wouldnıt all be Gryffindors.²
	Molly looked at Ron suspiciously. ³Now I think you are trying to get me worked up. Twenty grandchildrenŠ thatıs my idea of heaven. Now, youıd better not talk like that unless youıre ready to do your bit.²
	³Well, not yet, anyway,² allowed Ron. ³Letıs see, that works out toŠ three and a third per person. Harry and Ginny are thinking of four, so maybe I can get away with only three to hold up my end.²
	³Just like always, you try to slide by with the minimum effort necessary,² joked Hermione.
	³I do not,² protested Ron, a bit feebly, Harry thought.
	³Yeah, sureŠ Iıve seen you in the common room, asking her stuff before a big test or essay,² mocked Ginny. ³I can see it now, on your wedding night, youıll be calling her upŠ ŒHermione, I wasnıt paying attention when it was explained to me, what is it Iım supposed to do, again?ı² The table exploded with laughter from everyone except Ron, who Harry felt was annoyed, but knew he would be laughing if he hadnıt been the target.
	³Iım not going to dignify that with a response,² said Ron loftily, as the laughter died down.
	³Wise move, Ron,² chuckled Neville.
	³I thought so,² agreed Ron.
	³Would you like me to start a new subject, Ron,² offered Harry, ³one that doesnıt involve making fun of you in any way?²
	³That would be nice,² replied Ron, ³although the way you say it doesnıt exactly fill me with confidence that thatıll actually happen.²
	³I am serious, actually,² Harry assured him. ³Arthur, Molly, I was thinking Iıd like to invite a couple of people for dinner sometime, but I wanted to make sure it was okay with you first.²
	³Iım sure it will be, dear,² said Molly. ³Who were you thinking of?²
	³One is John, John Smith, heıs the Muggle Studies teacher at Hogwarts,² Harry explained.
	³Oh, heıs the really handsome one, right?² asked Molly.
	Arthur raised an eyebrow, and Ron snickered. ³So, whatıs Dad, a goblin by comparison?²
	³Of course not,² replied Molly, annoyed. ³That was how Ginny described him, you know she has his class.²
	³Well, that was before I was with Harry,² said Ginny. ³Now, not only is Harry the most handsome man in the world, he is the only handsome man in the world, for my purposes. The best any other man can do would be to be considered Œall right.ı²
	Harry looked at her quizzically, both pleased and embarrassed; it seemed like an odd thing for her to say. Ron looked at Harry appraisingly. ³Well, heıs all right, I suppose, but­²
	³Thank you, Ron,² Harry interrupted.
	³Any time, mate. But why­²
	Now Hermione interrupted. ³Do I have to explain everything to you, Ron?²
	³Not if youıre going to take that attitude,² said Ron defensively. ³But you might have to explain it to Harry, I donıt think he gets it, either.²
	³You see, Harry,² explained Hermione, ³sheıs letting you know that sheıs not going to make comments to you about how handsome any other man is, and she expects you to do the same, not to talk to her about how extremely attractive some woman is.²
	This had never occurred to Harry, but he supposed he could understand how it would make Ginny feel if he talked about how attractive some other woman was. He turned to Ginny and said, ³Have I ever mentioned how totally beautiful you are, much more so than any other girl?²
	Everyone smiled, including Ginny. ³What about Cho?² she asked.
	Feigning puzzlement, Harry instantly responded, ³Cho who?²
	Harryıs friends all laughed. ³Right answer, Harry,² chuckled Hermione.
	³He learns fast,² added Pansy.
	Harryıs eyes were still on Ginnyıs, and hers were on his; he could tell that she appreciated his answers even though she knew he was joking. ³So, why do you want to invite John over, especially?² she asked.
	³You call him ŒJohnı?² asked Arthur, surprised.
	³He asks all his students to,² explained Hermione. ³I think itıs just his personality, not anything to do with his being a Muggle especially.²
	³Anyway,² Harry continued, addressing Arthur, ³I like him, and thought during the year Iıd like to get to know him better. Also, after last Christmas, when I told the teachers about the conversation weıd had about prisonersı rights, and of course what you said, he said you sounded like someone heıd like to get to know.²
	Molly smiled at her husband. ³I like him better all the time.²
	Arthur returned her smile. ³That sounds good, Harry. Who was the other person you were thinking of?²
	³Archibald Dentus,² said Harry, and he saw Arthur and Mollyıs eyebrows rise. ³I see you know who he is.²
	³Oh, yes,² Arthur nodded. ³You donıt get to be an undersecretary in the Ministry without everyone knowing who you are. I just didnıt know you knew him well enough to invite him to dinner. I just knew that he was the one who came with Fudge to get you to support the ARA in March.²
	³Heıs been sort of keeping his eyes open for me at the Ministry, watching out for things he knows Iıd be concerned about,² Harry explained. ³Not that you couldnıt, of course, but­²
	³Not like he can, I couldnıt,² interrupted Arthur. ³I can tell you what rank-and-file people are saying; he can tell you what top-level people are saying, which is much more important. What made you decide you could trust him?²
	³Partly the way he comes across, much more like a real person than any kind of politician. Also, Albus said he was a friend, and more or less said I could trust him. I think he kind of felt sorry for me getting thrown into politics when I knew nothing about it, and wanted to help me. He partly lets me know whatıs going on, and partly teaches me about politics. He knows I donıt really want anything to do with it, and manages to teach me about it while not making it seem like a lecture. Heıs been very helpful.²
	³Whatıs your impression of him, dear?² Molly asked her husband.
	³He does more or less have a reputation as a straight shooter, or at least as much a one as you can be at that position,² said Arthur. ³Obviously you have to be somewhat good at politics and infighting to even get to where he was. I didnıt have that strong an impression of him one way or another until he quit, which made my respect for him increase. Most people donıt walk away from that sort of job because of principles.²
	³Thatıs probably because most people with principles donıt reach that position in the first place,² said Molly. Looking at Harry, she added, ³Iım not talking about Dentus specifically, Harry, since I donıt know him. Maybe heıs the exception. Iıve just seen too much of the Ministry through Arthurıs eyes not to be jaded.²
	³From everything Archibaldıs said, I can understand that,² agreed Harry. ³He did mention you once, Arthur. He said you were Œa good man who would do the right thing.ı²
	Arthur smiled wryly. ³I assume this was in the context of explaining why Iım still in the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts office.²
	Harry nodded, glad that Arthur didnıt seem embarrassed about it. ³He was explaining why itıs hard for good people to rise in the Ministry. His impression was that you wouldnıt want any part of the moral compromises necessary to advance.²
	³Heıs certainly right about that,² agreed Arthur. ³Just donıt have a strong enough stomach, I suppose.²
	³I wouldnıt want you any other way, dear,² Molly assured him. ³Well, you arrange it, Harry, let us know when, and weıll be ready. Oh, I donıt want to forget to tell you, Professor McGonagall called in the fireplace a little while ago, while you and Ginny were outside. I offered to go get you, but she knew I was cooking, and said it wasnıt urgent. She asked me to have you call her back after dinner. She wanted to talk to you and Hermione.²
	³Thatıs odd,² said a puzzled Hermione. ³Why the two of us? Could it be something to do with the fight with Voldemort a few weeks ago?²
	³First thing that pops into my mind,² said Ron, ³is that weıre looking at the next Head Boy and Girl. Why do you look so surprised, Hermione? Itıs not as though you arenıt a lock for the job.²
	³Donıt say that!² she admonished him.
	³What, afraid Iıll jinx it? I thought you didnıt believe in superstitious jinxes,² retorted Ron, obviously happy to have touched a nerve.
	³I donıt. Just donıt say it. Besides, Iım not a lock. At this point, you could make an excellent case for giving it to Pansy.²
	³Me?² asked Pansy, surprised. ³You must be kidding. Why would she pick me? My grades arenıt exactly fantastic.²
	³As I told Harry last year, itıs not only about grades and responsibility, itıs about leadership. People know what you did for Harry last year, they know how hard it was. They really respect and admire you, I know that. I mean, one night in our dormitory, Parvati and Lavender were telling me how they couldnıt believe what you did, that it was so amazing. Letıs put it this way: if it were decided by a vote, youıd win.²
	³Well, itıs not, so thatıs not important,² responded Pansy. ³I think youıre wrong, Hermione, and thatıs not something Iıve said very often. Tell you what.² She reached into her purse, pulled out some gold coins, and put them on the table. ³Five Galleons. If Iım made Head Girl, I give you five Galleons. If itıs you, you give me five Galleons.² She raised her eyebrows at Hermione and waited for an answer.
	Harry and Ron chuckled at the uncomfortable position Pansy had put Hermione in. Harry knew that if Hermione declined the bet, she was more or less admitting that Pansy was right, and if she accepted it, she would probably lose. Looking unhappy, she thought for a few seconds, then said hesitantly, ³Look, you know I donıt approve of gamblingŠ²
	Hermioneıs five friends laughed, and Pansy put away her money. ³Iım sorry, Hermione, I didnıt mean to make you that uncomfortable,² she said. ³But you have to recognize reality. You could just say, ŒI know Iım the logical choice, but I donıt want to get my hopes up,ı we would understand that. But if you say that you might not get it, youıre just begging for people to argue with you.²
	³Harry, Neville, youıre always telling us about the things the Aurors bet on,² said Ron. ³What would they give for odds on this?²
	Harry looked at Neville, and both shook their heads; Harry decided to answer the question in case Neville might get in trouble with Hermione for answering. ³I donıt think theyıd even take bets on it, the odds would be so high against anyone but Hermione. Someone might throw a few Galleons on a twenty-to-one long shot, but probably not. The funny thing is, in any other year, Pansy would be the obvious choice. Just not this year.²
	³Okay, letıs talk about Head Boy, then,² said Hermione, changing the subject. ³Did you mean to say, Ron, that you think Harry will be Head Boy?²
	Ron shrugged. ³If she called about making you Head Girl, then sheıs probably also decided to make Harry Head Boy. Of course, we thought it was unlikely because heıs a teacher. But you never know, I suppose. Harry would obviously be a lock if he wasnıt a teacher.²
	³Well, I would ask Harry what he thinks, but Iım not so mean as to make him give an opinion on his own chances­²
	³Yeah, but unlike you, Iım hoping I donıt get it,² Harry interrupted. ³I already have way more than enough to do. If she tries to give it to me, Iıll do my best to talk her out of it.²
	³Well, anyway, Neville, you can handicap the Head Boy situation,² Hermione suggested. ³What do you think?²
	Neville thought. ³This one is harder, because of Harry being a teacher, so itıs unpredictable. Just the kind of thing the Aurors like. I think that Ernie would be the favorite, at even money. Iıd put Harry and Ron at four to one each, and Iıd make Anthony and Justin long shots, maybe fifteen to one.²
	³Hadnıt thought of Justin,² said Pansy. ³I can see it, though. But you are forgetting one person.² She smiled at Harry. ³What do you think that personıs odds are, Harry?²
	Harry smiled back. ³Hard to say. Six to one, is my best guess. Maybe I can get McGonagall to tell me afterwards if she considered him.²
	³I donıt think heıs any less likely than me,² said Ron. ³Maybe five to one for each of us. I donıt think McGonagallıs forgotten first year, when he got those last ten points for us.²
	³You mean me?² Neville blurted out, then scoffed. ³Yeah, right. Iıve got about as much chance as Blaise Zabini.²
	³HmmmŠ he will be the only Slytherin seventh year boy, so itıs always possible,² joked Pansy.
	³I kind of find myself hoping itıs Ernie, if only because he wants it so much, and heıs the only one who does,² said Harry. ³Heıll be crushed if he doesnıt get it.²
	³You donıt want it, Ron?² asked Molly, surprised.
	Ron shrugged. ³If I get it, thatıs okay, but no, I guess I donıt really care. Iım Quidditch captain, Iıd rather be that than Head Boy anyway. Being Head Boy isnıt going to get me all excited or anything.²
	No one said anything to that; Harry wondered if Ron was thinking of Percy, and if others were saying nothing for the same reason. The dinner concluded with only sporadic, casual conversation.

	After dinner, Harry and Hermione walked over to the fireplace. They couldnıt both put their heads in, of course, so they agreed that Harry would do it. He leaned in and shouted the name of the fireplace in McGonagallıs quarters at Hogwarts. 
	³Hello, Harry, thank you,² McGonagall said pleasantly. ³I wondered if you and Hermione would come see me this evening, the earlier the better if you are free.²
	³Sure,² Harry agreed. ³How should we get there?²
	³Normally, I would meet you at the Hogsmeade Owl Office and walk to the school with you, but as of now, security is an issue for both you and Hermione. I donıt like to impose on Fawkes, but Iım sure you understand, and he does as well, that youıre in danger every time you appear in public unguarded, even for a short time.²
	³I understand,² said Harry. Humorously, he added, ³I have a feeling he knew what he was getting into when he chose me. Weıll be there in a minute.² He exited the fireplace and told Hermione they would be using Fawkes.
	³Did you ask her what it was about?² asked Hermione anxiously.
	Harry shook his head. ³Iıve dealt with her enough to know that if I asked, sheıd say something like Œyouıll find out when you get here.ı²
	³I guess so,² agreed Hermione. ³Well, Iım ready. Arenıt you going to call Fawkes?²
	Fawkes burst into view, his tail feathers sticking out. ³I donıt have to, really, itıs just a matter of his being aware that Iım ready.² He put an arm around Hermione and she one around him, and they both reached for Fawkesıs tail. Fawkes lifted off, and instantly, they were in McGonagallıs living quarters.
	³Ah, thank you, Harry and Hermione, and thank you too, Fawkes,² said McGonagall, addressing Fawkes politely. Fawkes settled on Harryıs shoulder. ³Please sit down,² she said, gesturing them to the sofa. ³Are you having good summers so far?²
	³Yes, thank you, Professor,² said Hermione politely. Harry could tell that she was eager for McGonagall to come to the point, though she would never press McGonagall.
	³Mineıs been really good,² said Harry, with spontaneous enthusiasm. ³Of course, my summers are usually terrible, so that may not be saying much. But Iım happy.²
	³Yes, I see that,² said McGonagall with a very small smile. ³Well, I should come to the point of why I asked you here. Miss Granger, I have to believe it will not shock you to know that you have been appointed to the post of Head Girl for this year.²
	³Thank you, Professor,² exhaled Hermione, who Harry felt was equally happy and relieved. 
	³Is it all right if I say Œwe told you soı now?² asked Harry. She looked at him sourly as Harry explained the gist of their earlier conversation to McGonagall. She shook her head in mock disapproval.
	³You do stand a risk of picking up the Aurorsı bad habits,² she said soberly. ³So tell me, then, how was the Head Boy race handicapped?² Smiling, Harry told her. ³An astute analysis,² offered McGonagall. ³But Mr. Longbottom failed to include himself in the consideration. You may let him know, if you wish, that I could have appointed him to the post with no indecision or regret. But he is correct, I have chosen Mr. Macmillan for the position. I see you are not disappointed, Harry.²
	³More like relieved,² agreed Harry. ³Saves me an argument.²
	She favored him with a strict expression. ³You will find that arguing with me is likely to be a fruitless endeavor. Now, as to why you are hereŠ you are here in your capacity as a Hogwarts professor, not a student. There is a personnel matter on which I would appreciate your input.² Harry glanced at Hermione; he was surprised she was being allowed to sit in on such a meeting. ³The reason for Miss Grangerıs continued presence will become clear as we proceed, Professor,² she said.
	³I donıt mind, obviously,² clarified Harry. ³Oh, but when you mentioned personnel, that reminded meŠ there was something Albus wanted me to tell you, that he told me last night. Apparently, heıs discovered recently that from where he is, he canŠ Œcommuneı is the word he uses, with ghosts. He can communicate with them with thoughts, not just words, like we can. He says communication is much faster and clearer than it is with us. Anyway, he talked about this for some time, but to jump to the end of the story, apparently Professor Binns has decided to move on to the spiritual realm. He wonıt be coming back.²
	McGonagall, looking frustrated, raised an eyebrow. ³And Albus persuaded him to do this?²
	³Iım sure he wouldnıt agree with the word Œpersuaded,ı² said Harry. ³More like, that Professor Binns and he talked, and Professor Binns realized some things. He said, Œplease suggest to Minerva that she see this as a positive thing for Professor Binns, rather than as an annoyance to her.ı²
	³Easy for him to say,² grunted McGonagall. ³Heıs not the one who has to find a new History of Magic professor. Well, you can tell Albus that I am pleased for the sake of Professor Binnsı immortal soul, but it does not help my situation any.²
	³You know, Professor, you can tell him yourself,² explained Harry. ³Heıs told me that all you, all anybody, whether living or dead, has to do is think of him in a focused way. Imagine that youıre talking directly to him, and heıll notice, and hear you.²
	³Thank you, Harry. Yes, I do imagine I will have a thing or two to say to him. He didnıt happen to make any suggestions that I would find helpful, did he?²
	³This was the strange thing,² said Harry. ³He said that I would help you. I have no idea how; he said it would come to me. I was annoyed at him, too. He knew I was, of course, and he just smiled. I donıt know how he can know that, since he canıt know the future, butŠ² Harry trailed off, and suddenly looked startled.
	³What is it, Harry?² asked Hermione, concerned.
	Smiling, Harry shook his head. ³It just came to me. I had a thought during dinner, something that popped into my head, and I forgot again because I was following the conversation. Itıs more like intuition, I guess. I was thinking about Archibald, you know, Archibald Dentus, and I suddenly had this thought, Œheıd make a good History of Magic teacher.ı Like I said, it just went right out of my head again, but Iım sure thatıs what Albus was talking about. I probably would have suggested him eventually anyway, but I guess Albus was telling me it was a good idea.²
	McGonagall looked intrigued. ³Is he qualified? Not just anyone can teach History of Magic, you know, former Ministry undersecretary or no.²
	³I donıt know,² Harry admitted. ³Thatıs the kind of thing you can find out more easily than I could, I imagine. Or, I could ask him at dinner, if he comes. I was planning to ask him and John over for dinner one night. I could ask him about history, find out what he knows, what he studied.²
	³An amusing notion, a sixteen-year-old conducting a job interview for a sixty-something-year-old. Do you think itıs something he would want to do, or agree to do?²
	³I donıt know that either. It just seemed like a good idea. Heıs kind of retired right now, but maybe heıd agree to do it for a few years until we find someone else.²
	³Well, we shall consider him as a possibility, then,² said McGonagall in conclusion. ³I will make a few discreet inquiries, perhaps I can dig up his school records from a half-century ago.
	³Now, if I may move on, as I was saying, there was a personnel matter to be attended to. A few things will be changing now that I am the headmistress, and one of them is that I can no longer function as the Head of House for Gryffindor. I am certain you can see that it would be a conflict of interest for me to continue in that role.²
	³Yes, I can see that,² agreed Harry. ³So, whoıs going to be the new Head of House?²
	³That is what I wanted your input on, Professor,² said McGonagall. ³I will go over the roster of teachers with you, and get your thoughts. Please keep in mind that it is very important that the Head of House be a teacher who was in that House as a student.² Harry nodded; he had always understood that was the case.
	³Firstly, we have Professors Snape, Flitwick, and Sprout, all heads of other houses. Proceeding down the roster in order of seniority, we have Professor Sinistra, whose house was Slytherin. Professor Svengard, who as you know teaches Study of Ancient Runes, was a Ravenclaw.²
	³Professor,² interjected Hermione as McGonagall paused between sentences, taking care not to interrupt, ³itıs beginning to look like­²
	McGonagall had no compunctions about interrupting Hermione. ³Miss Granger, will you please hold your thoughts until the roster is completed?² Looking abashed, Hermione looked down and was silent. McGonagall continued. ³Professor Vector, also a RavenclawŠ²
	Now Harry spoke during a pause. ³There are a lot of Ravenclaws, arenıt there?²
	McGonagall nodded. ³This is often a problem. As Ravenclaw is the most academically oriented House, a greater-than-usual proportion of teachers will be from there. ContinuingŠ Professor Trelawney, yet another Ravenclaw.² Harry was relieved; he didnıt want to think of her being a Head of House. ³Next, we have John, who of course cannot be considered because he did not attend Hogwarts, is not magical, and belonged to no house. Next, we have Professor Hagrid.²
	³He was in Gryffindor, wasnıt he?² Harry asked hopefully. McGonagall nodded. Thinking about how good it would be, Harry had a sudden realization. ³DamnŠ it would be great, but he canıt do it, can he. He wouldnıt be able to enter the common room.²
	³Unfortunately, a necessary element of being a Head of House,² confirmed McGonagall. ³Who is next on the listŠ ah, yes, the Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor.² She looked up at Harry, a hint of amusement in her eyes. Harry glanced over at Hermione, who was smiling. 
	He suddenly realized what was happening. I donıt believe this, he thought. He sighed, and thought for another minute; neither McGonagall nor Hermione spoke. Finally, he looked at McGonagall plaintively. ³Thereıs no other way?²
	³If you can think of one, I am all ears,² replied McGonagall.
	³Obviously, you know there isnıt,² said Harry. ³You knew this when you called this afternoon. Why didnıt you just tell me straight out?²
	McGonagall looked at him as if he were overlooking something obvious. ³And what would your reaction have been? Just because arguing with me will be fruitless does not mean I want to encourage you to do it. I would have had to explain it to you this way anyway; I just chose to do it before the argument rather than after.²
	³And Hermione is here in case I didnıt listen to you?²
	McGonagall shrugged lightly. ³She would not be here had I not had something to tell her as well, but I felt it was convenient. In any caseŠ please keep in mind that being Head of House is a serious responsibility. You will be in charge of all students in your House, in a very important way. Should someone misbehave in a serious fashion, for example, the decision to expel or not expel them will rest with you.²
	³Letıs hope it doesnıt come to that,² said Harry. ³I still remember you and Albus threatening to expel me, in second year.²
	³If we are fortunate, no one will fly a car into Hogwarts this year,² responded McGonagall. ³But I will tell you a little secret. Our threats notwithstanding, there were no circumstances under which we would have actually expelled you.² Obviously amused at Harryıs surprised expression, she continued, ³Despite not knowing for certain whether Voldemort would return, we knew it was highly likely that you would play an important role in future events, so your not becoming a fully trained wizard was simply not an option. At the same time, it was necessary to impress on you in the strongest possible terms that flying a car onto the Hogwarts grounds was unacceptable. So, weŠ fibbed a little.²
	Harry smiled. ³I guess I can understand that, from your point of view. But the funny thing is, I donıt think it would have made that much difference. Generally, I didnıt break the rules just for the heck of it, but because there was a really good reason. Maybe Ron and I didnıt actually need to fly the car to Hogwarts, but we thought we did.²
	³A really good reason?² asked Hermione. ³What about Hogsmeade, third year?²
	Somewhat chagrined, Harry replied, ³Well, I did say, Œgenerally.ı² He explained to McGonagall what he had done; she shook her head in disbelief.
	³So, you knew, or rather, thought, that there was a madman on the loose who wanted nothing better than to kill you, but you snuck into Hogsmeade anyway, putting yourself at great risk. If that did not dissuade you from taking such chances, itıs not surprising that our threats did not. In any case, it will now be your job to make sure that no Gryffindor students behave anywhere near as foolishly and rashly as you did. Do you think you can do that?²
	³I donıt see myself as much of a disciplinarian,² he admitted. ³Maybe Iıll just try to reason with them. Of course, then theyıll probably just say, Œyes, but you did it before.ı If they know about all the stuff I did, that is. The younger ones might not know.²
	³They know,² said Hermione confidently. ³Pansy told me this in the notebooks in March. Apparently one consequence of the first years liking you so much was that they went around the school asking everybody, even seventh years they didnıt know, what they knew about what you had done. Iım pretty sure that by now, they know everything that was known by anyone outside the six of us.²
	³Well, with any luck, I wonıt have to threaten anyone,² Harry said hopefully. ³I have a feeling our Head Girl will keep them in line.²
	³Sure, now that it benefits you that I like to follow the rulesŠ² She turned to McGonagall. ³I wish I had a Galleon for every time he broke the rules after I told him not to.²
	³A few of those were your idea,² Harry pointed out. ³The Polyjuice Potion, for example­²
	³Harry!² exclaimed Hermione, giving him a wounded and accusatory look. 
	³I donıt think weıre going to get in trouble for it, itıs been four and a half years. Besides, you told her about me going into Hogsmeade.² He then explained to a very curious McGonagall what had happened.
	She raised her eyebrows in surprise. ³Very impressive, for a second year; many N.E.W.T. students have trouble with that. Well then, Hermione, I suppose I need not tell you to look in on Moaning Myrtleıs restroom every now and then to check for rule-breaking. Then again, perhaps I will mention that to Albus tonightŠ perhaps he can Œcommuneı with her as well, and we can get that restroom back in service.²
	³Heıll probably say that youıre not looking at it from a very spiritual point of view,² joked Harry.
	³Yes, well, I will be happy to leave the spiritual considerations to him,² agreed McGonagall. ³Now, getting back to your new position, there are a few other things you should think about. One is that fifth-year prefects must be chosen; I will want your recommendations no later than the end of July. Another is that you now have ultimate responsibility for the Gryffindor Quidditch team. Ironically, though you report to Mr. Weasley as captain, he will now report to you as Head of House. You have the authority to make any decision involving the team, including choosing players. I have tended to leave such decisions to the captain; for the sake of convenience, not to mention your friendship with Mr. Weasley, I would advise you to do the same.
	³There is another Quidditch-related matter which should be brought to your attention. You will recall that at the beginning of your second year, Lucius Malfoy provided seven top-of-the-line brooms to the Slytherin Quidditch team. Professors Sprout, Flitwick, and myself all protested this rather loudly, feeling that it would give Slytherin an unfair advantage. Professor Snape responded that the principle was no different than my providing you with a Nimbus 2000 in your first year, and Professor Dumbledore agreed with him and took no action. I admit that I ceased protesting when you were given the Firebolt, but Professors Flitwick and Sprout have continued to formally request, at the beginning of each school year, that privately owned brooms be disallowed for use in Quidditch, and that school-owned brooms be distributed equally among all four teams. Professor Dumbledoreıs response has been that all four Heads of House must agree, and of course, Professor Snape never has. Professors Flitwick and Sprout yesterday renewed their request, pointing out that the Gryffindor team will be using two Firebolts this year. They did, you should know, ask me to mention to you that their request has no connection to their personal affection for you. In any case, though it is quite unlikely that Professor Snapeıs attitude will change, you must decide on your stance, as you now represent Gryffindor House.²
	Harry hadnıt imagined that he would ever have to make this kind of decision. ³Ron would go crazy if I agreed,² he said, half to himself. ³I know I canıt let that decide it for me, of course. Well, okay, Iıll think about it. Is there anything else I should know, or think about, right now?²
	She reached over to an end table near her for a small book, which she handed to Harry. The cover read, simply, ŒHogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry: The Complete School Rules.ı ³Read that carefully; you should be able to quote from it by the time you are finished.²
	Harry thought to respond, ³No need, I can ask Hermione if I need to know anything,² but held back at the last second, realizing a long and serious lecture would be forthcoming at such an attempt at humor. Instead, he nodded and said nothing. ³Donıt worry, Professor, Iıll quiz him on it,² said Hermione.
	³Unfortunately, sheıs not joking,² added Harry.
	³Excellent. Another good reason to have her here,² said McGonagall. ³Well, I will let you two get back to the Burrow, unless either of you has any questions.²
	³I just wanted to say, Professor, how honored I am that you chose me, and you know Iıll do the very best job I can,² said Hermione exuberantly. 
	³Well, I would be honored that you chose me,² said Harry, ³if it werenıt for the fact that there was no other choice, and that it wasnıt something I wanted, and­²
	³Yes, thank you, Harry,² interrupted McGonagall, looking annoyed. ³It should please you to know that you are not alone in feeling put upon by unsought duties; Deputy Headmaster Snape has had a few sarcastic comments as well. He is finding the assembling of the schedule even more unpleasant than I did.²
	³Great, Iıll probably have two twelve-hour days,² said Harry. ³Better him than me, though.²
	³He said something similar, actually,² said McGonagall. ³What was it exactlyŠ ŒI will be doubly pleased when the Dark Lord is defeated, for I will derive great pleasure in handing over this mess to Professor Potter.ı²
	³I havenıt said I would stay on,² protested Harry.
	³It appears that he assumes that you will,² she observed, giving him a look he had often seen from Hermione, suggesting that she knew more than he did. ³Oh, and that reminds me, there is another thing for you to consider. Now that you will be teaching N.E.W.T. classes, you must decide what O.W.L. score you will require of students who wish to join your N.E.W.T. class.²
	³I donıt have to think about that,² he replied quickly. ³Anybody can join, even if they failed their O.W.L.²
	³Are you sure? There are reasons for having such standards.²
	³I know, but I really see this as something thatıs essential,² he argued, suddenly more animated than heıd been all evening. ³I know that not everybody will end up having to use it, but especially considering the situation these days, Iıd hate to say no to someone, then have them suffer for it later on. If somebodyıs having trouble, Iıll just try to help them as best I can.²
	³Well,² said McGonagall, ³I am glad to see that you have a passion for teaching, even if you do not for being a Head of House.²
	Harry had a sudden thought. ³Let me ask you, what were Albusıs standards for the class last year?²
	³As you obviously suspect, the same as yours,² she conceded.
	³There you are,² he concluded, pleased to have it confirmed that he had made the right choice. ³Okay, weıll be getting back, I guess. Oh, and ProfessorŠ I may not be thrilled, but I will do the best I can.²
	She nodded understandingly. ³As do we all, Harry. Have a good evening, both of you.² They said their goodbyes, and grabbed Fawkesıs tail again.
	They were suddenly in the living room of the Burrow, surrounded by all the current residents and Neville. No one asked them, but they all looked at Harry and Hermione expectantly. Harry gestured to Hermione.
	³Well, Iım the Head Girl, and Harryıs the new HeadŠ² She trailed off, obviously wanting them to reach the wrong conclusion, ³Š of House, for Gryffindor.² Harry and Hermione enjoyed the stunned expressions they saw.
	Molly jumped up off the sofa and rushed to Harry. ³Harry, dear, thatıs wonderful!² She hugged him, and he was pleased she was happy, at least. ³Head of House, at age sixteen! My goodnessŠ and Hermione, weıre proud of you, too, dear,² she continued, releasing Harry and hugging a pleased Hermione.
	³Wow,² said Pansy. ³I guess it makes sense, probably there arenıt many teachers who used to be Gryffindors. What about Head Boy?²
	³Never bet against the favorite,² responded Harry. He went on to tell them what McGonagall had said, and was glad to see that Neville looked proud. He and Hermione sat down and told them the rest of what had happened. As they talked, Harry wondered how he would handle being Head of House. Just when I get used to one thing, he thought, another gets shoved in my lap.

*  *  *  *  *

	The next day was completely free for Harry, as it was Tuesday, and his summer training days with the Aurors were Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. In the morning, Pansy, Hermione, and Ginny went to Diagon Alley to look around, while Harry and Ron stayed around the Burrow. They played some chess, then practiced dueling, which they found they did a lot when they had time. Ron had joked to Harry that he now knew how Harry felt when they played chess, as Ron couldnıt come near defeating Harry at dueling. Harry was happy to practice with Ron anyway, though; if Ronıs grasp of tactics in dueling became as good as those he used in chess, Harry could still learn from dueling with him, even if Harryıs strength was overpowering.
	After the girls returned, they had lunch. Harry sat with Ginny in the living room, greatly enjoying the idea that he had nothing to do. He knew that he should make no such comment to Hermione, since she would suggest that he start on the rulebook. He did intend to study it, but he felt he deserved at least another week of relative leisure first.
	Molly announced that she was going out shopping, and Hermione decided to go with her. After they left, Ginny leaned into Harry and whispered, ³Why donıt you call Fawkes, we can take a little trip.²
	He raised his eyebrows. ³I thought we were going to talk to Molly about that first.²
	³Itıs okay,² she said. ³Iıll explain when we get there.²
	Fawkes suddenly appeared, and Pansy walked in. Seeing Fawkes, she smiled at them. ³Have fun, you two,² she said teasingly.
	³I think we will,² said Ginny, smiling. They grabbed Fawkesıs tail, and were suddenly in the bedroom of Dumbledoreıs former living quarters, now officially Harryıs. They sat on the bed and kissed, which they did a lot, especially when they were alone.
	³So, what about Molly?² asked Harry.
	³Well, I hope you wonıt be unhappy that I did this, but I had the talk with her by myself,² explained Ginny, checking his face for a reaction. He just nodded, letting her know he wasnıt bothered. ³I figured you wouldnıt exactly be upset. Funny, you can talk about love easily, no problem, but you still get all embarrassed about sex.² She smiled as she noticed him react with discomfort at her use of the word.
	³Give me some time, I just have to get used to it,² said Harry. ³Iım glad that both of us arenıt embarrassed about it. So, what did she say?²
	³It just sort of came up naturally, so I decided to talk to her about it. Like I kind of expected, she had a mixed reaction. On the one hand, she loves that weıre together, and knows that weıre going to want to do some sexual things; sheıs not bothered by that. She even said, ŒIf your father and Iıd had a phoenix and a private place to go, at your ageŠı She didnıt finish the sentence, but it was obvious what she meant. And she knows that since we had the Joining of Hands done, weıre committed. Basically, sheıd have no problem with us doing anything we wanted, except for my age. Iım two months away from sixteen, so itıs hard for her to just say she approves of our going off together and doing whatever we feel like.²
	³I suppose I can understand that,² he said. ³I wouldnıt know, but Iıd have to imagine that sheıs being more understanding about it than most parents would be, especially parents of a fifteen-year-old.²
	³Yeah, but itıs mostly because itıs you,² Ginny pointed out. ³If it was anyone else, Iım sure sheıd be reacting like I assume most mothers wouldŠ Œnot until youıre seventeen,ı that sort of thing. And since weıre committed, you could say it doesnıt really matter whether we do something now, or in two months, or when Iım seventeen. So anyway, the way we left it was like this: she knows weıre going to come here sometimes, but she wants us to either let her know, or if she isnıt around, make sure someone at home knows. Itıs understandable that she doesnıt want to come home and have no idea where we are, of course. And she knows she can have one of the others call us on our pendants if she really wants to. She said sheıll do that if we go off and forget to tell anyone.
	³But as for what we do when weıre hereŠ she basically accepts the idea that she canıt control that, and sheıs not even sure sheıd want to. She leaves it to our judgment, what weıre comfortable with. Her bottom line was, Œwhatever you do, donıt get pregnant,ı which obviously I had no intention of doing anyway. So, if we decide we want toŠ do everything, I have to go to St. Mungoıs first.²
	His eyebrows narrowed in puzzlement. ³Why?²
	³Thereıs a spell you can have done there,² she explained. ³Itıs a spell that prevents pregnancy, and it can be done so it lasts anywhere from a month to a year. Itıs simple, quick, and safe; lots of witches go there every year to get it updated. I was thinking Iıd go do it even if we donıt make a particular decision, just so itıs not a danger that we get carried away and do something we end up regretting. Iıve heard that once you get started in that direction, it can be hard to stop.² She grinned and touched his cheek; he leaned in and they kissed again.
	³I can believe that,² he said. ³Just kissing makes me feel that way. But then, of course, thereıs the other aspect of our situation, the one Molly doesnıt know about.²
	Nodding somberly, Ginny moved over to the center of the bed and lay down. She pulled Harry over so he lay next to her. They kissed briefly, and he stroked her hair. As he did, she spoke again. ³You saw how Pansy smiled at us when we left. As far as sheıs concerned, we can go here and be carefree, do what we want. It would be so nice if that were true.² Seeing his expression, she added, ³And donıt worry, I donıt blame you. Itıs not like this was your idea. So, how do you think weıre going to do this?²
	³Iım not sure,² he said. ³All I know is, I really want to do stuff with you.² Embarrassment at what he was about to say made him pause, but he knew that she wanted him to show more enthusiasm; he felt it, but had a hard time verbalizing it, and conveying it with actions was difficult as well, given the circumstances. He plowed ahead. ³If it wasnıt forŠ the situation, Iıd be working on getting your clothes off.² 
	He felt himself flush as he said it, but her delighted grin made him feel better. ³If it wasnıt for the situation,² she assured him, ³my clothes would already be off, and so would yours. Iıd have attacked you as soon as we got here.²
	He grinned broadly, now flush with pleasure. He understood why she was frustrated with his shyness, since her enthusiasm felt so good. His grin faded, however, as he focused on the reality of their situation. ³Well, good as that sounds, maybe the thing to do is treat it like going into a cold swimming pool, from the shallow end. Put a foot in, then a little more, get accustomed to it. That sort of thing. What do you think?²
	She nodded. ³It makes sense.² Smiling a little, she added, ³No point in just sitting here talking, since we can do that at the Burrow.² She leaned over to kiss him, and as the kiss continued, he couldnıt help thinking how much more comfortable this was than the couplesı places at Hogwarts. After another minute, he felt her hand moving around inside his robes, and he felt his do the same with her reflexively, almost without his conscious thought. He wondered how far into the water they would go.

	Two hours later, they let go of Fawkes as he appeared in the living room of the Burrow. The roomıs only occupant was Hermione, who was reading a large, thick book, which she put down when she saw them. Her expression was a mix of pleasure and sympathy. ³I find myself wanting to ask Œhow did it go,ı but I know I shouldnıt.²
	Ginny nodded. ³I can see why. Donıt worry, I know you donıt want to hear details any more than weıll want to tell you. I guess the answer is, as well as can be expected, considering. We know it may take some time.²
	³I really do feel for both of you, you know,² said Hermione. ³When Molly and I got back, she asked where you were, and Pansy told us. They were smiling, especially Pansy, you know, in this nudge-nudge kind of way. I know how they think it is for you, and I know how it really is. I do think youıll get past it, though,² she added, obviously trying to be encouraging.
	Harry appreciated her support. ³We think so, too. Albus says itıs just a matter of changing how we think. Iım sure heıs right, but itıs easier said than done. Itıs still really nice to be alone, though, in comfortable surroundings. Itıll seem strange to go back to the couplesı places in September.²
	³Will we have to?² wondered Ginny. ³Couldnıt we just go to your office, and then take Fawkes to your quarters?²
	³That has to be against all kinds of rules, doesnıt it? Hermione?²
	³Go look it up,² she urged him. ³Youıve got the rule book, you need to start learning it anyway. What better time than when you actually want to know something?²
	He sighed. ³I was hoping to wait a week before I even looked at it, give myself a break. All right, Iıll go get it.²
	He headed up the stairs, noticing how much firmer and more comfortable they felt since the Weasleys had had them reconstructed as part of the work done on the house to make it more secure. He walked to Ronıs bedroom, or what seemed more like the boysı dormitory now, grasped the handle, and found it locked. He turned it in surprise, figuring Ron had made a mistake.
	³Ron!² he shouted through the door. ³The doorıs locked.²
	Harry thought he heard a sigh from the other side. ³Brilliant observation, Harry,² Ron shouted back. ³Now, go away.²
	Another voice came through the door. ³Hi, Harry,² shouted Pansy cheerfully.
	All right!, thought Harry. Laughing, he said, ³Maybe I should come back later.²
	Through the door, Harry heard Ron say, in a normal tone, ³Thatıs our Harry, nothing gets by him. Mind like a steel trap.²
	Still chuckling, Harry headed back down the stairs. Sitting down on the sofa next to Ginny, he said, ³There seems to be a problem with getting the rule book right now.²
	³Yes, I knew that, of course,² said Hermione. ³That was just my way of letting you know what was going on.²
	Harry laughed again. ³Iım sure Ron would be thrilled to hear that.²
	³Well, letıs not mention that to him, no need to aggravate him. Besides, it didnıt seem right, you being the last to know.²
	³But I was, anyway, right?²
	³No, Neville doesnıt know yet,² said Hermione. ³Iıll have to tell him, or heıll never find out, since Ronıll never tell him.² She paused. ³I hope they work out.²
	³You think they might not?² asked Harry, surprised.
	Hermione shrugged. ³Iım just a little worried,² she explained. ³Pansyıs kind of sensitive about some things, and Ronıs kind ofŠ²
	³Insensitive?² suggested Ginny.
	Hermione nodded. ³Like, if he brings up her past once, in a critical way, then thatıs it, theyıre done.²
	³He wouldnıt be so stupid,² Harry asserted. ³No way.²
	Ginnyıs face took on a Œwell, maybeı expression. ³We hope youıre right, but people are bound to get in fights, and often they look for hurtful things, not even consciously. It could be out of his mouth before he knows it.²
	³Remember fifth year, Harry, when we asked you about those dreams, and you made that nasty crack about Ronıs skills as a Keeper? That really hurt him,² Hermione reminded him. ³You werenıt thinking about that, you just wanted us off your back. Thatıs a good example of how that can happen.²
	³That was a really hard time for me,² said Harry defensively. ³But I suppose I see your point, he could be having a hard time at some point. She couldnıt forgive him if he blurted it out, just once?²
	Hermione looked doubtful. ³You know how fragile her ego is, Harry. Itıs gotten better lately, probably partly because of our support and the support the school gave her after Easter, butŠ itıs like sheıs trying to build a new self-image. One comment like that from someone she cares about, and it could fall apart, at least for a while. She just might not be in any condition to forgive him. Itıs hard to know.²
	³Well, letıs hope it doesnıt happen,² said Ginny. ³Oh, Harry, while you were upstairs, Hermione came up with a good idea for helping us with our little problem.²
	Hermione gave Ginny an annoyed glance. ³I was just kidding, Ginny.²
	³I thought it wasnıt a bad idea,² responded Ginny. To Harry, she continued, ³She said she should do Memory Charms on both of us so weıd forget about the thing with Snape, then weıd go off to your Hogwarts quarters blissfully ignorant and do what we wanted. Then sheıd remove the charm when we got back, and that would be that. Thereıd be no reason for us to worry after that, because it would be out there, so to speak.²
	Harry chuckled as he listened. ³I can see the appeal of it,² he agreed. ³But can you doŠ of course you can, sorry, Hermione, I forgot who I was talking to.²
	³I know how to do them, but thatıs not the same as being able to, since Iıve never done it before, obviously,² she explained. ³I wouldnıt want to try it out on you two. You can do them now, canıt you, Harry?²
	³Yeah, the Aurors taught Neville and I, since itıs a pretty basic thing for an Auror. A few Aurors volunteered to let us practice on them. Simple things first, like you tell them a number and make them forget it, moving up to more complicated things. Obviously, we got a big lecture about only using it in oneıs capacity of being an Auror, and not, for example, use it on you so youıd forget about that time I snuck into Hogsmeade, and wouldnıt be able to tell McGonagall about it.²
	³Well, you told her about the Polyjuice Potion,² she countered.
	³You did yours first, so I thought it was all right. Anyway, she was disappointed with what I did, but impressed with what you did.²
	³It must be that I break the rules more virtuously than you do,² she said in a deliberately superior tone.
	³Must be,² Harry said, pretending to concede the argument. Anyway­² He stopped speaking as his pendant started to vibrate in a particular pattern. It had been set up to vibrate rather than blink so that others wouldnıt know that someone was calling Harry if he was in a position where he would have to explain. He held the pendant up and spoke into it. ³Hello, Professor. Iıll be there in a few minutes.² He shrugged at Ginny and Hermione. ³Should I go outside, or­²
	³No, itıs okay, weıll go into the kitchen,² said Hermione. They knew that he always took a few minutes to focus on love and get into the proper state of mind before seeing Snape, and it was better for him to be alone to do it. Ginny walked over and gave him an energetic kiss. Breaking off, she touched his face and said, ³That ought to help you get into a loving frame of mind.²
	³It actually gets me into the frame of mind I was in for most of the last few hours,² Harry said with a smile. ³But Iım not complaining.² Ginny and Hermione went into the kitchen, and Harry closed his eyes and concentrated.

	Harry walked into Snapeıs office. ³Hello, Professor,² he said as he sat down in his now-usual chair. He had decided he wanted to try to chat with Snape a little before they got started; it seemed too strange to simply sit down without a word and have Snape begin viewing memories. Harry had discovered that Snape seemed not to particularly welcome the conversation, but apparently tolerated it as something that made Harry more comfortable. ³Professor McGonagall tells me that youıre having trouble with making the schedule.²
	Snape raised an eyebrow. ³If those were her exact words, then she was mistaken.²
	Harry thought back to last night. ³Oh, yes, thatıs not exactly right. She said you found it even more unpleasant than she did, and looked forward to shoving it into my lap in the future.²
	³Yes, that is correct,² agreed Snape casually. ³You are now nearly of age, so I see no reason why you should not adopt some serious responsibilities.²
	Harry laughed, wondering if Snape was actually trying to make him laugh, or if it was just Snapeıs extremely dry humor. ³And you said your sense of humor wouldnıt be to most peopleıs taste,² he said. ³I guess itıs the needs of my schedule thatıs making it so annoying for you.²
	³Again, correct. I actually attempted to persuade the headmistress to require you to perform the task this year, since you will need practice for the years ahead. Unfortunately, she denied my request.²
	Harry chuckled to himself and shook his head. Amazing, he thought, how Snape would try to make me do that, even though Iım already doing what Iım doing for him. And to say it as if it were the most natural thing in the world. He decided to respond in kind. ³Well, donıt worryŠ Iıve had a wonderful summer so far, but the way my life goes, somethingıs bound to come along and mess it up. If it wasnıt this, itıll be something else.²
	Snape looked at him in annoyance. ³It is deliberately, I assume, that you misunderstand my intent. It is not to Œmess up your summerı per se, but to have you do a job that should by all rights be yours to do. The job would not be mine were it not for the practical requirements of the situation; I did not seek it or welcome it. Having to do this sort of extremely tedious duty as well is adding insult to injury. I assure you that had I a conscience, it would not be disturbed had my request been granted.²
	Harry was surprised to hear Snape say that. ³You donıt feel you have a conscience?²
	Snape sighed in irritation. ³As Miss Granger is fond of saying to you, Professor, think. I thought the headmaster explained this to you. The Dark Lord would not be well served by a servant who had a conscience. I did have one at one point, though it was, shall we say, underused. It now rests with the Severus Snape with whom you converse at night.²
	That makes sense, Harry thought. ³Yes, I suppose I should have seen that,² he agreed. ³I guess Hermioneıs right, thinking isnıt one of my strong points.²
	Snape looked as if he were making a great effort to restrain a natural impulse. ³Several dozen acerbic comments leap to mind, but I shall set them aside for the time being. Shall we begin?² Harry nodded and started focusing on love again as Snape cast Legilimens.
	The sessions tended to last about an hour, and this one did as well. When Snape was finished, he said, ³This is rather a different experience than it was with the headmaster. With him, I was almost always viewing events from some time ago, with which I had no connection. In this situation, I find blanks are being consistently filled in. For example, I knew boomslang skin had been stolen from my stores­though I thought you, not Miss Granger, were the culprit­but I did not know why. It would never have occurred to me that a second year could have managed to make Polyjuice Potion. Yet, ironically, all that effort and skill were used to a foolish end; Draco Malfoy was no more logical a suspect as the Heir of Slytherin than any other Slytherin student. Only your antagonism toward him caused you to suspect him, and you wasted a great deal of effort in pursuing a dead end.²
	³Well, we were twelve years old,² Harry pointed out. ³Iım sure we would do better now.²
	³If we are fortunate, the only mystery to be solved this year will be that of how to defeat the Dark Lord. And sad to say, Œthinkingı deficit or no, I suspect that responsibility will be yours, and yours alone.² Snape looked quite displeased at the prospect.
	³Maybe,² replied Harry, ³but I have a feeling that when that happens, itıs not going to be from thinking. Itıll probably just come to me, like that spell did last September. I donıt know why I feel that way, I just do.²
	³I find that would not surprise me at all,² agreed Snape. ³In any case, I shall detain you no longer, Professor.² Harry nodded and left Snapeıs office.

	Fawkes deposited Harry in the Burrowıs living room; Harry thanked Fawkes, who disappeared again. Hermione and Ginny were on the sofa. ³Well, this time I can ask, how did it go?² asked Hermione.
	³About as usual,² Harry answered. ³Heıs up to the end of the second year now. And while he didnıt say it quite the same way as McGonagall did, he was also impressed that you managed to make Polyjuice Potion at that age.²
	Hermioneıs eyebrows went up a little. ³I suppose thatıs as close to a compliment as Iıll ever get from him.²
	³How does he view the memories, Harry?² wondered Ginny. ³I thought you said that they came as kind of flashes of a scene. How can he see them long enough to get any information?²
	³I asked him about that in the second session,² answered Harry. ³Apparently itıs a skill you can refine and develop; itıs like, you see a memory and you kind of grab it and hang onto it. Obviously, heıs had tons of practice, so itıs second nature to him by now. I could probably develop the skill if I wanted to, but itıs really not going to be that useful most of the time. The other person has to be willing to let you view the memory, obviously.²
	³You could try it when we practice, you know,² offered Hermione. ³I wouldnıt mind. In fact, we should practice this afternoon, we havenıt for a few days.²
	³Yes, I suppose we should,² he agreed. Looking at Ginny, he added, ³I guess Iıve let some other things distract me.²
	Ginny and Hermione smiled. ³Youıre enjoying your summer for a change, nobodyıs going to blame you for that,² said Hermione. 
	Ginny stood and walked up to him. ³Iıd be happy to distract you some more,² she said with a familiar gleam in her eyes. As she kissed him, there was a small explosion in the fireplace, and Molly walked out, carrying a shopping bag.
	³Hello, everyone,² she said as she walked past them to the kitchen. ³Donıt mind me, you two, just go on ahead.² Harry and Ginny exchanged a smile and another kiss before sitting back down.²
	³Very nice that she doesnıt mind that,² commented Ginny. ³In fact, Hermione, itıs nice that you donıt mind, either. I know we can get kind of obnoxious at times. Okay, maybe just me, Harry doesnıt usually do that if there are other people around.²
	³Well, heıs had a hard life, he deserves it,² said Hermione; Harry wasnıt sure whether she was joking or not. ³Actually, sometimes I kind of wish I was more like you, moreŠ forward, I guess. I mean, I am a little bit; Neville and I never would have gotten started if I hadnıt been, and Iım still more forward than him. Come to think of it, if I was with him like you are with Harry, he might be intimidated, so maybe itıs just as well. Harry might not do it himself, but he isnıt embarrassed when you do it.²
	³More like, very happy,² agreed Harry. ³But Iıd probably be embarrassed if it was in front of anyone outside our group.²
	³Well, I wouldnıt do it then, of course,² said Ginny.
	³Anyway,² continued Hermione, ³itıs nice. I know everyoneıs different, though.²
	Ron and Pansy came into the room, just having come down the stairs. Harry looked at them, saying nothing but grinning broadly. ³All right,² said Ron, pretending to be annoyed, ³you can wipe that smile off your face.²
	³I donıt see why I should,² Harry protested, deciding to annoy Ron further. ³Iım really happy for you. Cımere, give me a hug.²
	³Uh, no thanks,² said Ron, trying to give the impression of being disturbed by Harryıs offer. ³You can hug Pansy if you want.²
	Smiling, Pansy walked over and hugged him. ³Thank you, Harry,² she said happily. ³Iım glad youıre happy for us, anyway.²
	³I really am,² he said quietly, letting her go. 
	She looked at him with appreciation. ³I know.²
	Hermione stood and faced Harry. ³Do you want to get started on the Legilimency?² she asked.
	³Yeah, okay,² he agreed. As they went upstairs to the girlsı room, he commented, ³Iıll have to ask Pansy later on what happened, how they got together. I know Ron wonıt want to tell me.²
	³Well, I can tell you if you want,² she offered. ³Pansy told Ginny and I all this last night. It happened yesterday, while you and Neville were with the Aurors. On days youıre with them, sometimes Ginny and I went out of our way to do things together, so Ron and Pansy could be alone if they wanted to.² They entered the room and sat on beds opposite each other. ³I think it was just a matter of Ron getting up enough nerve to make things clear to Pansy. She felt like it was up to him, since she felt sheıd made her feelings pretty clear. Molly was gone, Ginny and I were upstairs, and Ron and Pansy were downstairs, on the sofa. Somehow the topic of you and Ginny came up, and Pansy made some admiring comment about how you told Ginny you were in love with her. Ron said he didnıt think he could ever do that. Pansy asked him how he would do it, then. She told us later that at that point they just looked at each other, and it was as though they both knew that it was finally going to happen, like it was in both their eyes. Anyway, he just said, ŒI suppose, like this,ı and leaned over and kissed her.²
	Harry noticed that they were both smiling broadly. ³Thatıs a nice story,² he said.
	She nodded. ³We were all excited when she told us. We were laughing, giggling, making jokesŠ mostly at Ronıs expense, of course, Ginny and IŠ it was like a girlsı slumber party, it was really nice.²
	³Sounds like it,² agreed Harry. ³Oh, before we get started, I wanted to ask you when we were going to start having you do Legilimency too.²
	³Me?² asked Hermione, her face registering her surprise. ³Since when was I going to do Legilimency too?²
	³I donıt know, I guess I just assumed it,² said Harry. ³I should practice being on the receiving end of this. I know I should be pretty good at Occlumency by now, but I want to practice in this kind of situation. What if Voldemort someday tries to start yanking my memories out, like the one of the prophecy, or my relationship with Professor Snape?²
	³I thought you just said before that that couldnıt be done without the other personıs permission,² she pointed out.
	³Sorry, I didnıt say it quite right. I meant that the person itıs being done to could always fight off the intruder, or at least try. But someone like Voldemort could probably overpower someoneıs defenses.²
	³Donıt you have to kind of know what youıre looking for?² she asked.
	³Sort of,² he agreed, ³but not always, exactly. For example, when I practice with you, I focus on bringing up feelings of love, or friendship, like that. But you can also try to bring up feelings of shame, or secrecy. Apparently, Voldemortıs really good at it; Albus told me he used it a lot when he started getting powerful, to subvert people. Heıd get close to a politician, some person with an important position, and do that to them. A lot of people had secrets embarrassing enough that Voldemort could blackmail them with it, and theyıd do what he wanted, get him information, even if they didnıt want to. In the rare event that they didnıt have embarrassing secrets, heıd just kill them, or if he thought they might still be of use to him, do a Memory Charm on them. Anyway, heıs very skilled at it. Whatever your darkest secret is, heıll find it pretty fast.²
	³Then when we had the confrontation with him, why didnıt heŠ oh, thatıs right, he thought heıd be able to deal with us at his leisure.²
	Harry nodded. ³He might not have tried it against me casually because he knew Iıd gotten pretty good at Occlumency, and would want to get me defenseless and wandless before bothering to try. Now, fortunately, pulling out someoneıs secrets like that isnıt something thatıs done a lot, because the other person knows that youıve done it, and as I said, will probably try to fight you off. You canıt just sneak up behind someone, do it, and they never know. So, most of the time itıs not going to be an issue. But you can understand why Iıd want to try to get as good at defending against this as possible. I suppose I also assumed that youıd want to learn Legilimency.²
	³I do, of courseŠ but do you know enough to teach me?²
	³I remember what Albus told me pretty well, so I can tell youŠ I figure between that and whatever books you can find on the subject, you can learn it just fine. Also, I can still ask him about some things if I want.²
	³Thatıs true,² she said. ³Itıs easy for those of us who donıt talk to him at night to forget that. But wouldnıt it be better for you to practice this kind of defense against Professor Snape? He can give you much more of a challenge.²
	³Yes, but I canıt do it with him nearly as often as with you. I know you, youıll get good pretty fast. Iım not worried that you wonıt be able to give me a challenge.²
	She smiled. ³Well, now I have an incentive to get good at it, to justify your confidence. After weıre done here, Iıll go to Hogwarts and get a few books out of the library.²
	³How were you going to get there?² he asked.
	³The Owl Office fireplace, of course. Why?²
	He shook his head. ³No, use Fawkes. You and I are both high-priority targets for Voldemort; neither of us should be out alone in public, undefended. Pansy, too. Sheıs not a target from a tactical point of view, but I consider her the same way.²
	She nodded. ³I suppose youıre right. Iım just not used to thinking of myself as a target, even though thatıs the whole reason Iım here. This isnıt going to be a bother for Fawkes, us using him for transportation so often?²
	³No, heıs made that pretty clear to me, in his own way. All he needs to know is that I see it as necessary. He really doesnıt mind.²
	³Okay, then, there should be some more time before dinner after weıre done, enough for me to take Fawkes to the library and back, and get a few books. I can start reading them tonight. Want to get started?²
	They practiced for an hour, after which Hermione went to the library, and Harry went downstairs to relax and talk with Ginny, Ron, and Pansy. After talking for a while, at Ginnyıs suggestion, all four went outside to watch the sunset.


Chapter 2
Teddy and Anna

	Three days later, Harry stood with Arthur and Ginny in the living room, waiting for their dinner guests to appear in the fireplace. John was first, coming a minute before six, followed by Dentus a few minutes later. Introductions were made, and the five stood and chatted until dinner was ready; at the table, Dentus was introduced to Harryıs friends. John already knew everyone else, though he had never formally met Molly, Ron, Neville, or Pansy. 
	The conversation started out on Muggle-related topics, the main participants being Arthur and John. Watching them talk, it was clear to Harry that they could talk for hours on the topic. John talked for some time about current events in the Muggle world, and in a passing reference, found that he had to explain to almost everyone present what the Internet was, as only Hermione was very familiar with it. Harry had heard the word mentioned at the Dursleysı, but he had never been allowed near Dudleyıs computer, and had no particular interest in it in any case.
	³Well, thanks for that explanation, John,² said Arthur. ³I had a general sense of what it was, but now I feel like I really understand it. Most people I talk to havenıt mentioned it, but a few are pretty concerned. Archibald, I donıt suppose that this has been any kind of concern at high levels?²
	Dentus shook his head. ³Not that Iıve heard. Of course, as you know only too well, the top leadership tends to dismiss anything to do with the Muggle world unless itıs of vital, immediate importance, like when they tried to get the Muggles to help them find Sirius Black a few years ago. But, no, Iıve heard nothing. Iıd bet dozens of Galleons that nobody high up in the leadership has even heard of the Internet, never mind understand what it is, and why it could be a problem.²
	³Why could it be a problem?² asked Ginny.
	³Itıs not a real problem, not now,² explained John, ³but it has the potential to be a big problem as time goes by; one that could sneak up on us and then suddenly explode, and threaten the secrecy of the wizarding world. Of course, wizards have always tended to use Memory Charms to keep knowledge of the wizarding world away from Muggles. Obviously, as we all know, there have been times throughout history where that wasnıt done as well as it should have been, and so you have this mythology in the Muggle world about witches and wizards­well, what they think is mythology, anyway­in which they get some things right, like that wizards ride on brooms and do spells, but they get a lot of things wrong. 
	³Now, thereıs never really been a danger of a large-scale exposure of the wizarding world to MugglesŠ until now. Books have protections in case they fall into Muggle hands, but the Internet doesnıt. If enough information gets put there, it could get out to the Muggle population at some point.²
	³But would Muggles believe it anyway?² asked Arthur. ³My experience with Muggles is that most believe magic is a load of rubbish, or tricks designed to amuse children.²
	³Most wouldnıt,² agreed John. ³The danger is in the long term. Whatıs happening right now is that some of the few witches and wizards who are interested in the Muggle world, or who have one foot in it, are talking about wizarding affairs on the Internet. Itıs no more than a few dozen, and theyıre all connected. In what seems to me to be a weak attempt to preserve wizarding secrecy, they portray it all as if it were fiction, a make-believe world. This is not unheard-of, of course; in the Muggle world, people do form groups based around fictional or ancient historical ideas, and participate and interact as though it were real. Most Muggles think itıs peculiar but harmless, and shrug and ignore it. They will with this, too; no Muggle will read this and think itıs real. But what if this continues for some time? More wizards might start doing it; it could start to become popular with Muggles. They could join in, thinking it was fiction, or just read it and enjoy it as fiction. But then the danger is, if something happened, some significant event that affected the Muggle worldŠ normally the Muggle governments would give some false cover story, and people would believe it, or maybe it would end up some unsolved mystery that no one could prove. But if there was corroborating evidence on the Internet, or if wizards talked about it on the Internet and enough Muggles saw it, it could start to cast an uncomfortable light onto the wizarding world. And, worse, the nature of the Internet is such that the information would be almost impossible to erase or cover up. You canıt do Memory Charms on people sitting at computers spread out all over the world.²
	There was silence for a moment as everyone digested what John had said. Then Hermione said, ³Wow, Iıd never really thought of it like that. I can see how that could happen. It still seems unlikely, but yes, I can see the danger. Do you think nobody at the Ministry would?²
	Arthur shook his head. ³Especially in the current climate, with Voldemort around, people would think it was trivial. I mean, even I didnıt know about this. If I tried to tell anybody about this, their attitude would be, oh, thatıs Arthur, heıs always on about something to do with Muggles, and theyıd ignore it.²
	Dentus nodded. ³No matter who it was who tried to explain it, nobody would sit still for five minutes to listen to the explanation that John just gave. They just canıt be bothered with anything to do with Muggles.²
	John looked at Harry. ³Oh, and HarryŠ I know this wonıt thrill you, but I did some searches a few days ago, and your name is mentioned in these pages every now and then. Itıs hardly surprising, since yours is definitely the most famous name in the wizarding world right now, maybe even more than Voldemortıs. Anyway, a few pages have information about your history­not only about being the Boy Who Lived, but stuff youıve done at Hogwarts, even up to what happened a few weeks ago. They write about what was said publicly, and speculate about what really happened.²
	³Great,² muttered Harry. ³Just what I need, to be famous in the Muggle world.²
	³Well, thatıs nowhere near happening now, I was just talking about a long-term danger,² John reassured him. ³Also, thereıs a page whose focus is all six of you,² he added, as Harry saw the others react with surprise. ³The page is titled, ŒThe Potter Platoon,ı and has pictures of all of you, and short biographies.²
	Now grinning, Harry surveyed his friends, who were looking at each other in mild alarm. ³See, I warned you all about the danger of hanging around with me. Now, you can see it for yourselves.²
	³Iım going to have to visit my home and use the computer, check this out,² said Hermione.
	³You should know, you six are starting to get known as a unit,² said Dentus. ³Of course you already are at Hogwarts, since you all spend time together, and everyone knows how close you are with each other. But itıs actually starting to come to Ministry attention, partly because of Harryıs importance, and partly because of the abilities youıre starting to manifest. For example, Hermione, Iım pretty sure most of the top leadership is now aware of you, now that you can do Harryıs spells, and faced Voldemort with bravery. And very recently, Ginny and Neville, now that they can also do the energy-of-love spells.²
	³The Ministry leadership knows about that?² asked Neville, obviously surprised that the Aurors would have told them.
	³The Aurors are responsible to the Ministry, Neville,² pointed out Arthur. ³Iıd think theyıd have to have a pretty good reason for keeping something like that secret, and something that could be that important, they almost have to tell them.²
	³Arthurıs right, of course,² affirmed Dentus. ³Only you four can do this, which makes you of great interest to the leadership. I talked to my contacts more than usual yesterday, trying to find out anything interesting to tell you tonight. One thing I discovered is that theyıre starting to take the idea of the energy of love far more seriously.²
	³You mean they werenıt before?² asked Harry. ³I didnıt know that. How could they ignore it?²
	Dentus shrugged lightly. ³You have to remember, according to the scientific community, thereıs no such thing as the energy of love. A few people believed that what you said was factual, but most just thought you and Albus were exceptional, and you had a youthful and fanciful notion of the nature of what you had discovered, or that you just associated it with love mistakenly. They were more comfortable believing the scientific people. But now that they know that four of you can do it, they assume Harry taught it to the others, which he couldnıt do unless he really knew what it was. Also, they donıt ignore the fact that you four are two couples, obviously in love. Thatıs making people rethink their attitudes. One even said­excuse me, Ron and Pansy­ŒYou notice that the two not together canıt do it, thatıs got to mean something.ı²
	Molly smiled at Ron. ³Well, theyıll probably be able to soon, then.²
	³Mum,² moaned Ron. ³What are you going to do, call the Prophet and tell them? Oh, no, wait, you probably already have.²
	³You really do take this business of not wanting people to know about your personal life a bit too far,² admonished his mother. ³Goodness only knows when I would have found out if you were the only one who could have told me. A week before the wedding, probably.²
	³Yes, and the use of words like Œweddingı is part of the reason for that,² Ron retorted, to smiles from his friends.
	³Donıt worry, Ron, I know weıve only been together for a day,² an amused Pansy assured him. ³I donıt have those kinds of expectations.²
	³Itıs her expectations Iım worried about, not yours,² replied Ron. 
	³Well, pardon me for taking an interest in my sonıs life,² said Molly, acting wounded by Ronıs attitude.
	³This topic reminds me, we havenıt had a session for a week,² said Harry. ³How about tomorrow after dinner, would that be okay with everyone?²
	The others nodded, except Neville. ³Iıll have to check, but Iım sure tomorrow night or Sunday night will be okay.²
	³On this topic,² said Dentus, ³thereıs something I should tell all four of you, and Ron and Pansy should be aware of it in case they learn to use the spells tooŠ Iıve only been told this by one person, so itıs not confirmed, but the person is someone I trust. Apparently, Fudge has been getting nervous lately about his personal security, he thinks that as Minister of Magic heıd be a pretty appealing target for Death Eaters. Which is true, and thatıs hardly a secret; that heıs afraid of Voldemort and Death Eaters is an open secret at the Ministry.²
	³Must be, since even I knew it,² said Arthur humorously.
	³The new wrinkle,² continued Dentus, ³is that Fudge is thinking of you four in terms of your potential to aid in his personal security. Not like as part of a detail, of course, since youıre all still at Hogwarts, but for special occasions, like where heıs in public, or around large numbers of wizards. One of you could be around, say, under an Invisibility Cloak, and could protect him from a Killing Curse should one come at him.²
	Before any of Harryıs friends could react, Molly did. ³Why, thatŠ² Appearing to be struggling not to use impolite language, she calmed down enough to say, ³Thatıs the most cowardly, despicableŠ you six have all put your lives at risk for this fight, and now Fudge, already well protected, wants to hide behind you? I thought my opinion of him couldnıt get any lower, but obviously I was wrong.²
	Harry appreciated Mollyıs concern on his and the othersı behalf, and he couldnıt help but agree that Fudge was not exactly behaving bravely. Still, he found that he wasnıt personally offended, and his already low opinion of Fudge prevented his being terribly surprised.
	³I can very well understand your reaction, Molly,² said Dentus. ³It may make you feel better to know that according to my contact, Kingsley reacted in much the same way when he was told about the idea, except that the language he used was much coarser than yours. He was speaking to my contact, of course, not Fudge. Among other things, he said that he now regretted telling the Ministry that Neville and Ginny could do it. Adding to his anger, of course, was the fact that Aurors already protect Fudge, and the implication of this idea is that they canıt be totally counted on.²
	³Do you think he will end up making such a request?² asked Arthur, obviously not especially surprised that Fudge would contemplate such a thing. ³And would he make it through the Aurors, or to Harry and the others directly?²
	³Thatıs a good question, Arthur, I donıt know,² replied Dentus. ³It would be highly insulting to the Aurors if he didnıt go through them, but Iım not sure that would stop him. Even he canıt be so slow-witted as not to know how this looks to them. If he thought he could get the agreement of Harry and the others, he might present it to the Aurors as a fait accompli, and try to placate them to the extent necessary. He may not even do it at all; itıs just something he thought of and talked to a couple of people about. But I thought it was only fair that the six of you know.²
	³What do you all think?² asked Arthur, obviously curious. Harry was curious as well to know what the others thought.
	³Iım not as angry as Molly,² volunteered Pansy, ³but I donıt like it at all. I donıt want them putting their lives at risk for anything but what they positively want to, not because theyıre asked to.²
	³Iım definitely with Pansy on this,² agreed Ron. ³You canıt risk your life because youıre asked to. You have to do it because itıs what you think is right.²
	³Not Aurors, Ron,² pointed out Neville. ³Thatıs part of their job, and Iım training with them. They want me to become one, and I want to as well. If I do, doing that very kind of thing will be my job.²
	³Yeah, but youıre not one yet,² pointed out Ron. ³And Hermione and Ginny certainly arenıt. They could be asked this as well.²
	³Thatıs true, and Iım not crazy about that,² agreed Neville. ³And I definitely donıt want Harry doing this, even though heıs training too. Aside from his being my friend who Iım concerned about, heıs way too important to risk for something like that. It would be totally stupid.²
	³Nevilleıs got a point, I hadnıt thought of it that way,² said Ron. ³It would be like, in chess, putting the king at risk to protect a bishop. Does Fudge even know how important Harry is? Or does he just not care?²
	Harry now wondered if Dentus knew about the prophecy; he was reasonably sure John didnıt. He watched as Dentus responded. ³Albus did tell me, and Iım not surprised that youıre all aware of this, that thereıs substantial reason to believe that Harry will play a prominent role in Voldemortıs downfall. Considering that, Nevilleıs point is a very good one; it would be foolish to put Harry at risk for this kind of purpose. As for whether Fudge knows this, I very much doubt it. Albus would have known Fudge either wouldnıt believe it or wouldnıt keep it to himself.² 
	Harry noticed that if Dentus knew about the prophecy, he avoided referring to it, no doubt because of Johnıs presence. Harry assumed that Dumbledore had either told Dentus the first part of the prophecy, or conveyed the essence. He decided to speak up. ³Yes, but how much risk would I really be at? Especially if I had an Invisibility Cloak, or something like that, and can defend myself against the Killing Curse as well? What could they do?²
	³Harry,² said Hermione quietly and somberly, ³would you want Ginny doing this?²
	He hadnıt expected that question. He looked across the table at Ginny, and knew the answer was obvious. ³No,² he said, equally quietly.
	The others looked on with sympathy as Hermione nodded. ³And I donıt want Neville doing it, not for this kind of reason. Obviously, when we think about this, weıre going to have different standards for what we accept as risk for ourselves, and what weıre willing to have those we care about face. Harry knows this better than anyone, he spent a lot of last year struggling with it. It seems pretty clear that none of us thinks this is important enough for those we care about to risk their lives for it. Fudge can resign if heıs so worried about being killed. And as for what you said about Aurors, Neville, it would be a good point, except that you and Harry arenıt even official Aurors-in-training. What theyıre doing with you is purely personal on their part, nothing to do with their official duties as Aurors. Some of them, like Dawlish, choose not to be a part of it, and youıve said that they give up one of their days off every week to do it. I think that means that whatever obligation you have, you have to the Aurors whoıve trained you, not to the Ministry.²
	After a few secondsı silence, Harry said, ³As usual, itıs very hard to argue with Hermione. I assume this means that weıre pretty much agreed that this is not something weıre going to do?² He looked at the others, who by their nods or expressions indicated that they agreed.
	Dentus looked at them in turn. ³I have to say, I find it touching that what persuades each of you is the danger the others would face.²
	³Like Hermione said,² said Harry, ³we went through this a lot last year.²
	³You had ample opportunity,² agreed Dentus. ³I have a feeling Fudge would find that hard to understand, heıs never had to worry about anyoneıs life before. Of course, this means youıll have to tell him no to his face if he chooses to bypass the Aurors.²
	³I donıt look forward to that especially,² said Harry, ³but I find that if I think about Ginny being in that position, Iım pretty sure I can do it.²
	³Of course,² said Molly emphatically, ³Ginnyıs not of age, and there are no circumstances under which Arthur and I would have allowed it. But I was trying not to say anything, because I knew you six had to reach your own conclusions.²
	³Four,² Ron corrected Molly.
	³No, sheıs right, Ron,² countered Hermione. ³You and Pansy could start being able to do this anytime, especially now, and then youıd be in the same position. And this had to be a kind of group decision anyway.² Ron nodded his acknowledgment of her point.
	³He may not end up asking you anyway,² pointed out Dentus, ³or he might go through the Aurors, who would say no without even asking you, Iıd bet. But itıs good that youıve thought about it.²
	³We wouldnıt have been able to, if not for you,² said Harry. ³Thanks, we all appreciate it.²
	Dentus shrugged. ³If we had a leadership that I could be proud to be part of, it wouldnıt be necessary for you to be warned about that kind of thing at all.²
	³Well, that would be too much to hope for,² said Molly. ³Oh, have you two heard about Harryıs news from Hogwarts? Heıs replacing McGonagall as Head of Gryffindor House.²
	Dentusıs eyebrows rose. ³My, my, yet another youngest-ever record. My impulse is to congratulate you, Harry, though I see from your expression that condolences would be more appropriate. You didnıt want the position?²
	Harry wondered just how strongly his expression showed how he felt. ³I might not have minded so much if it happened next year, if I decided to stay. But you know how busy I was last year, and itıs only going to be worse this year, now that Iım teaching the N.E.W.T. classes as well. I really donıt need anything extra to worry about.²
	³Maybe,² said John, ³but it shows that McGonagall has confidence in you.²
	³No, it shows that there were no other former Gryffindors available who could do the job. She admitted that was the reason.²
	³No, youıre wrong there,² said Hermione. ³She put it that way so youıd accept it and not argue with her. But sheıs right, it is a serious responsibility. Do you really think sheıd give it to you if she thought you couldnıt handle it? Sheıd have done it herself even though itıs a conflict, or had John do it. Sheıd break tradition or risk a conflict of interest rather than make someone Head of House who was irresponsible or not worthy of the position. You know her, you must realize that.²
	Harry was silent, thinking about what Hermione had said. ³Sheıs right, Harry,² put in John. ³I know Professor McGonagall well enough to know that.²
	³Well, maybe Iıll go back and argue with her then, see if I can get her to have you do it,² replied Harry humorously. ³If you say so, Hermione. I just still donıt get it, really. I just donıt think Iım the best person for this. Iım not the type whoıs going to discipline people; Iım just as likely to say, Œwell, donıt do it again.ı²
	³Harry,² said Ron, ³Iım going to be serious for a minute, so listen carefully.² 
	Before he could continue, Pansy cut in. ³Thatıs my influence, Iım starting to work on him.²
	 ³Good idea to get started early, Pansy, thereıs a lot of work to be done,² put in Hermione.
	Ron gave Hermione an annoyed look, then turned to Harry and continued. ³See, this is what I get for trying to be serious. Anyway, you are good for the position, even if youıre not a disciplinarian. I doubt youıre going to expel anyone, no matter what they do. But remember when we flew the car to school, how Dumbledore made us feel, like weıd let him down? Especially the younger ones, youıll make them feel like that, without even trying. We wouldnıt have felt so bad if we didnıt respect and like Dumbledore as much as we did. Thatıs how they feel about you. They wonıt want to let you down.²
	Harry had never thought of it that way. As he digested this, Hermione said, ³Of course, heıs right, I hadnıt thought of that. I bet McGonagall understands that, and itıs part of her reason for giving you the position. Also, Iım sure she wants you to have some experience in a very responsible position, for the future, if you stay on.²
	Harry felt he should explain what Hermione meant. ³Iıd appreciate it if you didnıt repeat this to anyone,² he said, looking at Dentus and John, ³but Professor McGonagall told me that Albus wanted me to become the headmaster after she retires.²
	To Harryıs surprise, Dentus and John chuckled. ³I donıt think thatıs much of a secret,² explained Dentus. ³It may not have been in the Prophet yet, but I know he has mentioned it to a few people, including myself. I think he was laying the groundwork for it, putting the idea in peopleıs heads.²
	³All the teachers know thatıs what he had in mind,² added John. ³And before you ask, no, no one resents it or feels that you donıt deserve it. Itıs not a question of seniority. It has a lot to do with what Ron was talking about.²
	Harry found himself wishing the topic of conversation would change. He glanced up at Ginny, and saw from her grin that she knew how he felt. ³Well, I still donıt know what Iım going to do,² he said. ³But if I stay, then you have to be a teacher,² he added, to Hermione.
	³I probably will,² she said. ³I was going to tell you all, I was at the library today, and I ran into Professor McGonagall. We talked for a while. She was telling me that usually the headmaster or headmistress doesnıt teach, certainly not a full schedule. She said that she will teach Transfigurations this year, but she wants me to do it next year. She basically offered me the job. I said Iıd think about it, but Iım sure Iıll do it.²
	Everyone at the table smiled; Molly got up, walked over to Hermione, and kissed her on the cheek. She accepted congratulations, then Ron said, ³Wow, Hermione a teacher, who would have ever imagined it?²
	She gave him a wry smile. ³Thank you, Ron. I know thatıs as close to Œcongratulationsı as Iım going to get from you.²
	Sitting next to Hermione, Ron stood and leaned over. ³Congratulations, Hermione. I know youıll do great.² Then, to Harryıs great surprise, he too gave her a kiss on the cheek. He sat down to laughter, as people took in Hermioneıs stunned look. ³Pansy told me to do it,² smiled Ron, to more laughter.
	³I did not,² laughed Pansy, obviously pleased. ³And if I had, I wouldnıt have imagined that youıd actually do it. Now, that was a lot more surprising than her being Head Girl. I mean what you did, of course, not her being a teacher.²
	³Oh, youıre Head Girl?² asked John. ³I hadnıt heard, but yes, I would have been stunned if it hadnıt been you. Head Boy was Ernie, right?²
	Harry nodded. ³Right. How about you, Archibald, were you a prefect, or Head Boy?²
	³Both, I confess,² said Archibald. ³Always was ambitious, rule-abiding, that sort of thing.²
	³Which house were you in?² asked Harry.
	³Slytherin, of course,² replied Dentus. ³You are familiar with the 4-3-2-1 rule, arenıt you, Harry?²
	Harry and Neville nodded. ³Yes, the Aurors explained it to us,² said Harry. To his other friends, he continued, ³Itıs something they say about the Aurors and the Ministry. They say that the composition of Aurors by house works out roughly as 40% Gryffindor, 30% Hufflepuff, 20% Ravenclaw, and 10% Slytherin. And with the Ministry, itıs the exact opposite: 40% Slytherin, and so on. Apparently itıs very accurate, and has been for over a century.²
	³Yes, it means the Sorting Hat does its job pretty well,² agreed Dentus. ³And the higher up in the Ministry you go, the more Slytherins you find.²
	³What did you study at Hogwarts, Archibald?² asked Harry. ³I mean, what did you get N.E.W.T.s in?²
	Dentus raised his eyebrows. ³The usual things for becoming a politicianŠ History of Magic, Ancient Runes, Muggle Studies, Charms, and a few of the usual subjects. Why do you ask?²
	Harry shrugged. ³Just wondering.²
	Dentus smiled. ³Why, Harry, I think thatıs the first time youıve ever lied to me. You really should avoid it, or I could teach you, you could get better at it.²
	The others chuckled at Harryıs expression as he asked, ³Are you a­²
	³No, Iım not a Legilimens. But you have to remember, Iıve spent my career in a profession in which I dealt with truly professional liars, people who lie all the time, and for whom being good at it is practically a prerequisite for advancement. So, when you lie to meŠ I say this with affection, Iım sure you know, but you lie with all the subtlety and finesse of a four-year-old who denies having broken the vase which is lying in pieces at his feet.²
	Harry felt himself blushing as the others laughed yet again. ³All rightŠ I didnıt want to just come out and say this, but now I suppose I have to. Professor Binns isnıt coming back next year, and we need a new History of Magic teacher. I thought of you, that you would be good at it.²
	Dentus was obviously surprised. ³Why would you think that? Being a politician doesnıt necessarily involve the same skills as being a teacher.²
	³Itıs not because you were a politician, exactly,² answered Harry. ³Itıs becauseŠ youıve been teaching me about politics for a few months now. I have absolutely no interest in it, as you know, but you make it interesting enough that I pay attention and learn it anyway. It seems to me that being able to teach someone something when they donıt care whether they learn or not is very important in being a teacher.²
	³Is that from your perspective as a student, or a teacher?² John asked, amused.
	³Both, but more as a student,² said Harry. ³Iıve always felt that Iım lucky, that I teach a class thatıs very directly useful to someoneıs life. Well, okay, maybe more to mine than most peopleıs, but most students know that being able to defend yourself is very important.²
	³Well, Harry, I will say that Iım flattered,² said Dentus. ³I would never have thought of it. I may be a bit rusty on my history, but I suspect with some study, I could get up to speed. I have been enjoying my retirement, however, and would hate to give it up, even for a few years.²
	³But you would have remained a politician for a while, wouldnıt you, if the thing with Voldemort hadnıt happened?² pressed Harry.
	Dentus appeared amused at Harryıs enthusiasm. ³Youıre pushing a little hard,² he advised. ³You want to back off, give me time to think about it.²
	³See, even now youıre being a teacher, telling me the best way to persuade someone of something,² Harry responded. ³Sorry, I didnıt mean to push you. Iıd just like to see it, and not just because I want to help Professor McGonagall find someone.²
	³I know, and I appreciate it. It would be interesting, to teach you in an actual class.²
	³Actually, Iım not taking History of Magic anymore,² Harry pointed out. ³I failed the O.W.L., and had to cut back on my classes to be a teacher last year.²
	³Ah, I see. Well, letıs make that a condition of doing this, then. If I end up doing this, then you have to take my class.²
	³Archibald, I would really want to, but my scheduleıs very tight as it isŠ² Harry trailed off, then thought again. He was very busy, but he really did want to have Dentus teaching there, and it was only two more hours a week. Harry made a decision. ³All right. If you come as a teacher, Iıll take your class.²
	Ginny raised her eyebrows. ³Wow, you really do want him to come.² To Dentus, she said, ³He really is busy. I should know, Iım the one who didnıt get to spend as much time with him as I would have liked in the last few months.²
	³It would be nice to have a proper History of Magic lesson, though,² Harry mused. To Dentusıs puzzled expression, Harry explained how Professor Binnsı classes were regarded. ³So, it would be a bit like it was for me last year, replacing Umbridge. You couldnıt possibly do worse.²
	³Itıs always nice to benefit from low expectations,² said Dentus wryly. ³Oh, speaking of herŠ you may be interested to know that apparently, sheıs beginning to peek her head out from behind the rock sheıs been hiding under. Since returning from Hogwarts, sheıs kept a very low profile, practically invisible, though she never resigned her position as an undersecretary. She lost a lot of whatever influence she had. Now sheıs starting to talk to people again. I assume sheıs trying to determine how much of the influence she had before she can get back. If I had to guess, Iıd say that Albusıs death has emboldened her to come out of hiding.²
	It had to happen sometime, Harry thought. Ron spoke up, asking, ³Can she really come back now? After torturing Harry, and setting those dementors onto him? Is everyone at the Ministry going to just ignore that?²
	³Unfortunately, Ron, now that the dementors arenıt under Ministry control, it would be very hard to prove that she did that, even though you heard her admit it,² said Dentus. ³But it may be possible to do somethingŠ Harry, would you be willing, if interviewed by the Prophet, to give details of what she did that year?²
	Harry shrugged. ³Sure. What good would it do, though?²
	³Well, obviously, you have a status now that you didnıt have two years ago,² explained Dentus. ³What she did to you is going to look a lot worse to people now than it would have then, and anything you said would be believed now, while it wouldnıt have been then. It could beŠ made clear to her that now is not the best time for her to make a comeback, while if she waited until, say, after Voldemort is defeated, then the timing would be better for her.²
	³Ah,² said an obviously satisfied Ron. ³Blackmail.²
	Dentus gave Ron a faint smile. ³Politics, Ron. Worse things than that happen all the time. This is exactly the sort of thing that your father, to his great credit, wants no part of. I myself prefer to only do it in the service of what I consider to be a very good cause, and this strikes me as one.²
	³I will say, Archibald,² said Arthur seriously, ³Iıve heard what she did, and I have no qualms about this being done, moral or otherwise.²
	Molly said nothing, but her expression made it clear that she agreed with her husband. John said, ³I suspect youıd have no trouble getting a lot of quotes for the article from the Hogwarts teaching staff.²
	Harry felt that he should give his explicit approval, since he understood it would be done on his behalf. ³If this is something you can do, Archibald, Iıd like you to do it. I canıt imagine that her coming back is going to do anybody any good.²
	³I understand, Harry,² said Dentus. ³Iıll look into it, let you know what happens.²

	Three hours later, after Dentus and John had left and with Arthur and Molly upstairs, the six students were in the living room talking. Harry and Ginny sat at one end of the sofa, his arms around her as she sat as close to him as possible while still facing the others. Ron and Pansy were at the other end of the sofa, her leaning against him. Neville and Hermione sat in chairs, holding hands. Harry wondered if he and Ginny were being even less reserved about physical closeness in front of the others, since now that Ron and Pansy were together, no one had to feel left out.
	³So, what did you all think of Dentus?² Harry asked the others.
	³Pretty impressive,² answered Hermione. ³Iıd say youıre lucky to have him helping you. I can really see how heıd be a good teacher, I hope he accepts.²
	³Me too, Iıd even pay attention in History of Magic,² agreed Pansy.
	³I liked how he called you on lying,² smiled Ron.
	³Yeah, you would like that,² retorted Harry. 
	³You know he was just teasing you, Harry,² said Ginny, moving a hand off his arm and holding his right hand. ³I think he knew why you did that. But yeah, I liked him too. And Iım glad heıs willing to do that thing with Umbridge.²
	Ron made a noise of disgust. ³When he mentioned her name, I almost said, Œdamn centaurs,ı but I didnıt want a lecture from Mum.²
	³Iım not sure sheıd have given you one, Ron,² said Ginny. ³We told you some of what she said the night Percy was killed. She knows Umbridge tried to have Harry killed, and itıs not that different. She might have even been with you. Iım not sure.²
	Hermione looked at Ron. ³So, you wished the centaurs had killed her? You truly wish she were dead?²
	Ron thought for a few seconds. ³Yes, I do. In a way, itıs like youıre asking me whether I approve of people who kill people being executed by the government. She tried to have Harry killed, so should she die for that? I know Harry doesnıt agree with me. He didnıt let Sirius and Remus kill Pettigrew, and what he did was even worse than what Umbridge did. If Iıd been in his position, Iıd have let them do it.²
	Harry thought back to that event, about how heıd felt. ³You might be right, Ron, but Iım not sure you can really know something like that until youıre in the situation, when itıs your decision whether someone lives or dies. Thereıs a realŠ I donıt know how to say it, pressure, maybeŠ you know what I mean, youıve been in dangerous situations. Itıs similar, but different. Itıs like, you really find out how you feel about something, and in my case, it was something different than what I thought it would be.²
	Ron thought again. ³I see what you mean, and maybe youıre right. All I know is thatıs how I feel now, and I think I would in the situation. You wouldnıt, Hermione? You led her to the centaurs, after all. You mustıve known what could have happened.²
	Hermione looked uncomfortable. ³Thatıs not exactly something Iım proud of, Ron. I mean, I would do it again, to save Harry, butŠ itıs a bit like with Harry and Goyle in January. If Harry had another way, he would have done it, and so would I. She could easily have been killed. I can see why you say she deserves it; I canıt disagree. But I was glad that Dumbledore went in there and saved her. It took some of the load off my conscience.² 
	Ginny looked at Ron curiously. ³Would you kill her, Ron? If you could, if you wouldnıt get caught, no one would knowŠ would you?²
	Ron looked almost disappointed at his own answer. ³Iım not sure; I have a feeling I wouldnıt. But I should, if I want her dead; itıs almost like I just donıt have the nerve to do it myself.² Ron glanced at Pansy, and his face hardened. ³But one thing I do knowŠ if I had a chance to kill Malfoy, I would.² Harry saw Pansy look up at him, her expression seemingly both grateful and concerned.
	³I would too, Ron,² said Hermione. ³I think we all would, if we could, because we all care about Pansy. We know that sheıs in danger as long as heıs alive. But let me ask youŠ would it be because of what he might do in the future, or what he did in the past?²
	Ron raised his eyebrows. ³Does it matter?²
	She spoke quietly. ³Thereıs probably no right answer to that. I think it does, anyway.²
	³Then I guess I couldnıt answer right away,² he said. ³I just know that the threat to Pansy is what makes me so certain.² He held her a little more tightly as he spoke. 
	Harry didnıt think he could kill anybody even if he wanted to. He was sure that using the energy of love would prevent him from doing so, but he could understand how Ron felt, as was sure the others could as well. He wondered how he would feel if someone had made the same vicious threats to Ginny as Malfoy had made to Pansy. 
	He was still thinking about it when he went to bed that night, and he asked Fawkes to sing after he did his Occlumency exercises. He wondered whether Ron might find it as helpful as he would.

*  *  *  *  *

	Harry groggily looked up at the alarm clock, which read 7:08. It was set at 7:30 to prevent them from oversleeping, especially on days Harry was with the Aurors, but they had not yet slept long enough to need it. He looked over at the sleeping Ron and decided to have some fun. He got up and nudged Ron, saying, ³Wake up, Ron, hurry up. Weıve got that big Transfigurations exam today, remember.²
	Ronıs eyes shot open. ³Oh, bloody hell, I­² He took in his surroundings, and Harryıs smiling face. He exhaled, lay back, and gave Harry a look of great annoyance, though Harry was sure it was mostly annoyance at himself for being taken in. ³Harry, have I ever told you how incredibly funny you are?²
	³No, you havenıt,² replied Harry, playing along even though he knew where Ron was headed.
	³And it turns out thereıs an excellent reason for that,² Ron said, following up as Harry had expected. As they changed from their pajamas into their regular clothes, Ron asked, ³So, Dumbledore talk to you last night?²
	Ron had asked this most every morning since they had returned to the Burrow. Sometimes Harry answered seriously, and sometimes he made a joke; he assumed Ron had started asking regularly as a running joke, or to see what kind of answer Harry came up with. Today Harry said, ³Yes, we talked about sex.²
	Harry got his reward, which was a split-second look of surprise, followed by Ronıs attempt to look casual, as though he hadnıt been fooled at all. ³If you donıt want to tell me what he said, just say so.²
	Harry chuckled. ³Wouldnıt surprise me if he did, actually. If he doesnıt, itıs because he doesnıt have anything to say about it, or because he knows Iıll be embarrassed. Well, no, he wouldnıt care that I was embarrassed.² They finished dressing, but Harry stayed in the room, not heading right downstairs as usual. ³No, we talked about the stuff that was talked about at dinner last night.²
	³Ah, so it was kind of heavy, then. Do you want to wake up the girls, tell them too?²
	Harry hesitated. ³No, I might tell you differently than Iıd tell them. Some of it had to do with you.²
	Standing in readiness to go downstairs, Ron sat on his bed and looked at Harry expectantly. ³Well, go ahead.²
	Serious now, Harry said, ³A lot of it had to do with what you said, about wishing Umbridge were dead.²
	Ron nodded slowly. ³He thinks I shouldnıt wish that?²
	Harry tilted his head. ³Not that, exactly. He probably does think that, but he wouldnıt say you shouldnıt wish for it, because heıs not very judgmental, especially since he died. No, itıs more that he thinks youıreŠ he talked about it for a while, and itıs kind of hard to say simply and quickly. He says youıre kind of damaging yourself, like I temporarily damaged myself when I did the Cruciatus Curse on Lestrange, only in your case itıs much longer and slower. And, he thinks, more dangerous, because you­not just you, but anyone who has similar feelings­donıt realize what youıre doing. While what I did was like touching a hot stove, he thinks what youıre doing is more like very slow poison. It wonıt kill you, but itıll hurt you.²
	Ron looked puzzled. ³But itıs not like I obsess over it, constantly thinking about how Iıd love to see her dead. Also, itıs just thinking, not actually doing, like in your case. Sorry,² he added, not wanting to rub Harryıs nose in what he had done.
	³I know what you mean,² agreed Harry. ³I said the same thing to him, and he explained why he thinks this. I only sort of understand it, so I may not be able to say it to you very well, but Iıll try. 
	³The basic gist of it seems to be that thoughts are more powerful than we realize they are. We think theyıre harmless, because except with magic, we think things or wish things and they donıt happen. Thoughts are one thing, reality is another. We can think one thing and do another, and we see what we did, not what we thought. He said the dangerous thing is that if we think something, it sort of creates a foundation for the idea that it might happen someday. It steers us in a certain direction. Like, if youıre on a diet and you always think about how much you want to eat something fattening, youıre more likely to do it eventually, but if you can manage not to think about it, you probably wonıt do it. He said, thoughts lead to actions, and thoughts lead to words, which lead to actions. He also said, ŒThe line between wishing someone dead and actually killing them is far thinner than most people would like to believe.ı Heıs afraid that by having that wish, youıre doing something destructive to yourself and donıt realize it.²
	Harry could see that Ron was disturbed by the idea, and that he took it seriously because it came from Dumbledore. ³So he thinks that I should just change my mind, that I shouldnıt wish her dead anymore? I can just do that?²
	Harry shook his head. ³Heıs not trying to tell you what you should or shouldnıt do. Itıs more like, if youıre going to think this, or wish it, you should be aware of what youıre doing, of the danger. He said it was like a slow decay, so slow that most people donıt notice it. But with us, we six, itıs more dangerous, because we get put in situations where we could have to make important, life-or-death decisions with not much time to think. If weıve primed ourselves to think in a certain way, it makes us more likely to act in that way, in the situation.²
	³Is he afraid that Iım going to kill someone?² asked Ron, surprised.
	³He didnıt say that, but it does kind of follow from what he said. Or, at least, you put yourself in danger of doing so, if you donıt do whatever you do with a lot of conscious thought. Bear in mind, a lot of this didnıt really sink in with me, either, so Iım not going to be able to say it nearly as well as he did. I do know that he meant that even if you donıt end up killing or hurting anyone, thinking that way still harms you.²
	³So I assume he thinks the same thing about my being willing to kill Malfoy? Because Iım not changing my mind about that.²
	³He said thatıs not the same thing,² explained Harry, ³because itıs very conscious. Having that desire does damage you, as would actually killing him, but you would do it to protect Pansy, you would cause yourself harm to keep her from harm. Thatıs a conscious decision, you know it would hurt you. What you think about Umbridge, you donıt know will hurt you. That was the main difference, according to him.²
	³So,² wondered Ron, ³this advice was mainly for me, not for you? You wouldnıt kill Malfoy if you could?²
	Embarrassed, Harry said, ³Well, I kind of hesitate to say what he said about me, because Iım afraid itıll seem­²
	³­like you think youıre better than I am,² Ron finished. ³I promise I wonıt think that, Harry. I would like to know.²
	Reluctantly, Harry nodded. ³The fact is, I couldnıt kill Malfoy if I wanted to. I accept the fact that using the energy of love wonıt let me do it. In a way, it was a good thing that the thing with Lestrange happened, especially when it did. It was like being immunized, he said. Having the experience of doing it made me decide firmly not to do it again, and that helped me become able to use the energy of love. Also, he said Fawkes wouldnıt have chosen me if I could want a person dead. Phoenixes dislike anger and violence, they canıt deal with it. Remember after the department store attack, when we were in that room at the Ministry? Fawkes usually shows up if Iım having a hard time, to help me, but he didnıt then. It was because I was angry, angry at Albus, angry at the situation. He couldnıt be around me then; he showed up later at the Burrow when I had calmed down. Anyway, back to the main point, Albus said that when I threw myself into feeling love, during the Voldemort thing last September, that I made a mental shift that changed my whole life, I just didnıt know it then. He said I committed myself to a different way of thinking, that it was a positive example of the importance and power of thoughts. I focused on love so intensely, and for so long, that it changed who I was, in a way.²
	³Hard to argue with that,² said Ron thoughtfully. ³I guess I see what he means. Of course, I donıt have this huge incentive to change the way I think, like you did.²
	³Thatıs true,² agreed Harry. ³I donıt think he thinks you will, he just wanted you to be aware of it.²
	³Well, Iıll certainly think about it, anyway. Be kind of hard not to. Well, what do you say we get on down to breakfast?² Harry nodded, and they headed out. ³Oh, and buck up, Harry, maybe heıll talk to you about sex tomorrow.²
	³If he does, I promise to tell you all about it, in detail,² Harry joked as they started down the stairs.
	³Even if itıs about you?²
	³Sorry, I meant to say, I promise not to tell you about it.²
	³Thatıs what I thought you said.²

*  *  *  *  *

	Trailing behind Kingsley, Harry walked into the dining area of the Aurorsı training center four days later. Neville and a half-dozen Aurors were already there, waiting for the house-elves to bring lunch. ³Well, he did it,² announced Kingsley. ³Took his first bout from me dueling.² As Harry sat down, Kingsley playfully mussed his hair. ³Ah, they grow up too quickly.²
	³Especially him,² agreed Jack Temble, sitting next to Harry. ³Congratulations, Harry. Thereıs more than one Auror who never takes a bout from him.²
	³So, who won the pool?² asked Neville.
	Tonks looked disappointed. ³There wasnıt one, dammit. Somebody should have thought of that.²
	³Well, we canıt have a pool for everything,² observed Jack.
	³Seems that way sometimes,² said Neville.
	Tonks grinned. ³Heıs just annoyed that we had one on how fast heıd learn to Apparate.²
	³No, Iım annoyed because you felt you had to tell me how Harry did before I tried,² replied Neville, in the same spirit. In a slight imitation of Tonksı voice, he went on, ³Oh, and Harry did it on his first try, Neville. No pressure, though.²
	Harry was too embarrassed to laugh, but the Aurors did. ³Aurors have to be able to handle the pressure, Neville,² joked Kingsley.
	³Probably she was just remembering it because she won the one on me,² said Harry to Neville.
	³I won his, too,² said Tonks happily. ³Picked twenty minutes, only a minute off.²
	³Twenty minutes is very good, Neville,² said Kingsley, obviously impressed. ³A lot of us didnıt do it that fast. You canıt go by Harry, heıs one of those people who screws up the average.² Neville had a small smile, but didnıt respond; Harry assumed he was just giving Tonks a hard time, but didnıt want to admit it.
	³You must have had to do a lot of paperwork for this,² observed Harry. ³Not only getting him permission early, but also an exception from the ARA.²
	Kingsley shrugged. ³Yeah, but it makes perfect sense, like it did with you when we did it then, just for a different reason. Being able to use your spells makes him a potentially important resource. Weıve done it for Hermione and Ginny, too, we were going to ask you to talk to them, see when they can make it in. We want to give them a half-day of Apparation training, pretty much what we just did with Neville.²
	Harryıs first thought was that Ron would be very displeased that his younger sister would be able to learn to Apparate before him, but Harry thought it wasnıt the best thing to say to the Aurors. Instead, he said, ³Iım sure theyıll be happy to. Weıll talk to them.²
	³Good,² said Kingsley. Looking uncomfortable, he continued, ³Look, thereıs a promise we had to make, that we were pressured to make, in return for doing that. It was to relay a request from Fudge, a request that you should feel complete freedom to reject. He wants­²
	³­us to use the spells to protect him,² Harry finished, then saw Kingsley looking more surprised than heıd ever seen him look. ³Yeah, we heard about that. We decided we werenıt going to do it.²
	³Good for you,² said Jack firmly. ³Sniveling cowardŠ²
	Kingsley was looking from Harry to Neville, seemingly trying to work out how they had found out. ³Boy, youıve got some good contacts. Not many people knew about that. But yes, Iım glad you said no. If youıd said yes, Iıd have tried to talk you out of it. I was really angry that they even made us promise to ask in return for making sure that Neville and the others could Apparate, which is a perfectly legitimate request. Well, Iım glad that now I can tell them I asked, you said no, and thatıs that. But I wonıt tell them that you knew already, Iıll let them think you thought it over.²
	Harry wasnıt sure he cared whether Kingsley let them think that or not, but he knew it was probably better to do so. ³Did you have anything in particular in mind with Ginny and Hermione, after teaching them to Apparate?²
	³Nothing specific, no,² replied Kingsley. ³Just that their abilities make them potentially valuable, and for better causes than protecting politicians. I donıt want to have a situation where their help could be very useful, but the ARA hinders them from traveling. Oh, and Harry, you almost donıt need this because you have Fawkes, but we arranged this for both you and Neville. You both have the same exemption from the ARA that Aurors have. As we already explained to Neville, we canıt Apparate casually, but we can in the course of our duties as Aurors, though we try to avoid it if we can. You two will have the same status. You may not be Aurors, but there may be times when youıll need to Apparate as if you were, so now you can. You donıt have to justify it to the Ministry, just to us.²
	³I understand, thanks,² said Harry. ³Although Iım not sure what situation­²
	He was interrupted by a very loud alarm that seemed to be coming from not only the room they were in, but every adjacent room as well. Startled, he saw the Aurors leap to their feet and Disapparate; all were gone in less than a second. He looked at Neville, now the only other person in the room. ³What the hellŠ do you know what just happened?² He had to shout for Neville to hear him above the alarms.
	³Itıs their pendants, someoneıs­² Neville cut himself off as the alarms suddenly ceased, and he was shouting in the silence. Changing to a normal tone, he continued. ³You remember how our pendants have that adrenaline alarm? Well, theirs do too, of course. One of theirs just went off.²
	Harry felt his heart sink, as he understood that at least one Auror was in mortal danger. ³Fawkes!² he shouted, and Fawkes appeared. ³Can you take me to wherever that happened?² Fawkes settled onto the table in front of them as Harry tried to clear his mind so he could understand whatever Fawkes might want to communicate to him. He immediately knew the answer, though, because if Fawkes could take him, he would be in the air, tail feathers sticking out. Harry listened anyway. Neville stayed quiet, knowing what Harry was doing.
	Half a minute later Harry exhaled, frustrated. ³He canıt,² he said to Neville. ³I should have known he couldnıt, but I had to be sure. He was just letting me know that Iım really the only person whose location he can simply know. He also let me know that the closer I am to a person­emotionally closer, not physically closer­the more easily he can know where they are, even if I donıt, but itıs not instant. He has to focus, itıs harder. Itıs as if where I am is a bright beacon, because weıre bonded, and the people Iım close to are very faint, but visible, because of their connection to me. Probably you and the others are the only ones he could do that with. Well, maybe Molly and Arthur, too.²
	³So, obviously, if you knew where it was, he could take you,² Neville clarified.
	Harry nodded. ³Damn, I wonder what happened.²
	³I think we have to assume there was another Death Eater attack,² Neville speculated. ³Maybe a few went out to the scene and ran into some trouble, maybe there were more lying in wait, or something.²
	³I wish we could do something besides just