THE AFTERMATH | RON WEASLEY [BOOK FOUR]

2. MANY MOONS AGO

"What are we doing in–" she peered up at the sign reading, "Ashford."

Gene was just about prepared to let go of Dumbledore's arm, regaining the strength to stand alone. 

"Meeting a friend." Dumbledore smiled knowingly, "But first, I should like to speak with you about something." he said.

"Of course, sir." Gene nodded. "What is it?"

"I hope you'll forgive me for mentioning it, Genevieve, but I am pleased and a little proud at how well you seem to be coping after everything that happened at the Ministry. I think both Sirius and Ophelia would have been very proud of you."

Gene hadn't spoken about the day ever, not out loud and she certainly didn't like to think about it. The pain still felt rather raw in her chest, and she could feel it aching to just think about it.

"It was cruel that you and Sirius had such a short time together. You should have known your parents from the very beginning. And for that, I am sorry. Though I know there is not much I can say to make that pain go away."

"It hasn't been easy, sir," Gene shook her head, swallowing hard. "I don't like to think about it, much less discuss it, but I don't think he would want me to shut everyone out. I could die any minute, after all."
She remembered the prophecy, sending a chill down her spine. She didn't like to think of that either.

"But when I do, I want to go down fighting for my loved ones. Like my parents did." she said assuredly, bringing a great smile to Dumbledore's features, his wispy moustache curling ever so slightly.

"You are your fathers daughter." he chuckled, his uninjured hand squeezing Gene's own with affection. "Another suggestion, Genevieve, is that you tell Mister Weasley and Miss Granger about the prophecy. Granted you haven't already?"

And at this, Gene tore her eyes from Dumbledore's blue ones, boring into her own, in the way they did when he knew that he was right, which also happened to be all of the time.

"Well, no. I didn't–"

"– want to worry them?" he asked, smiling. "I fear we have passed that stage many moons ago, wouldn't you agree, Genevieve?" he continued and Gene breathed a laugh at this before, "My final suggestion for the night, is that you continue your private lessons with Professor McGonagall."

Gene froze, because she didn't realise Dumbledore knew. Then, she remembered that he knew everything.

"Really?" she mumbled.

"Yes, Genevieve. Therianthropy is different to becoming an Animagus or being born as a Metamorphmagus, you see. You certainly won't have to register with the Ministry, and I shall make sure of that. It needn't take you years to perfect the Animagus process either, for it is in your blood."

Gene's head lifted in surprise, "You know?"
"Gene," Dumbledore almost appeared offended, "Of course I know. I know everything." he used her own words, and Gene's eyes widened slightly.

"But I warn you," he said, "it will not be easy. I need to know you are ready, Genevieve. Dark times lie ahead. There may come a time when your friends are in need, and you must act fast. There won't be time for hesitation or deliberation."

"I understand, sir. I am ready. I know I am." she nodded.

Dumbledore broke into a smile, "Very good. I shall inform Professor McGonagall immediately." he nodded, his eyes lighting up as he spoke now, "Ah, look! There goes our friend." he said, causing Gene to follow his gaze.

Her eyes travelled over the length of the platform opposite them, seeing a small cafe with Harry talking to a girl inside, and a ticket office that was seemingly closed down for the night.