No... it... it's just as well. If I couldn't be here to protect them, then...

[Deep sigh. There's a billion other names at his mind's forefront, but those three were his responsibility most of all.]

[He hesitates, as if he's incredibly rusty! And then gives a deep bow.]

[And though his hands are reflexively on his sword hilts again, they slowly go to offer Harry a handshake.]

Good to see you're still here.

I have no idea what to say when one returns from such a thing. You'd think it wouldn't be too different from returning to the castle after a long campaign, but... I didn't ever really leave anyone behind at the castle, they all came with me. [Wry grin.]

Anything fun I missed? Are the sweets still top notch?