Hogwarts Needs You

"He will not be single-handed!"
"Oh yes, he will, Minerva! Hogwarts needs you!"

Oh, Albus, why did I listen? I should have helped you win the school back that night that the D.A. was discovered.

But then, I've always listened to you, and never once have I disobeyed a direct order from you.

Now I'm making excuses, aren't I? I should have helped you. Perhaps the truth was that I, Minerva McGonagall, was afraid. Oh, I know that you've never been found lacking in the area of self-defense. I know you would never let me be injured, or any other innocent. I suppose I didn't want to cross the line, and break any laws. I know it was for the greater good, I do. But I never considered that. In a moment of truth, I made the wrong decision. You were able to cope well enough on your own, and I wouldn't say it could have gone any other way, given your strength. But what if it had gone wrong?

Hogwarts needs me, you said? I won't deny that I have many powers, or that I am an excellent witch. But I find myself facing seemingly insurmountable odds. Without you. I must confess that your presence has always made me feel more secure. You know I have never fought alone. Oh, yes, the incident with the Chamber of Secrets...but at least then I had allies in the Ministry. Now I'm fighting a war on two fronts, and I have a precious few comrades, all of whom I can't openly associate with.

The staff begins to lose faith, Albus. Oh, they do try to be brave, of course, but I see those downcast looks they've been wearing since Dolores Umbridge cast you out of your own school. I don't know how long they'll last, what with inspections and of course, the constant annoyance that surfaces from the new laws being passed. If not for their sense of duty, and their attachment to the school, many would be gone by now. But then, you've always had a good eye for dedicated employees, and Hgwarts has that effect on so many teachers.

I feel so alone. Of course, that's silliness, as there are many other staff members and certain students who clearly advocate our cause. In our own way, we continue to defy the Ministry, but it seems such a small way of showing our distaste of the whole matter. I just can't help but to feel alone, even though I shouldn't. I am wise, yet it is your advice I have always relied. If I make a mistake now, then the entire school is effected. I have no guidance, and I have no one to lean on, now that you are gone. Albus, what does one do when one is alone? How do I go on?

I know my duties now. I must protect the students and the staff as best I can. And so I shall. But, Albus, Hogwarts needs you, too.