The noisy students dispersed. News of the Moon and the Moon Branch instantly eclipsed every other topic, becoming the hottest news of the moment. The students did not even have time to discuss something as outrageous as Taylor's temporary appointment as vice principal.
A moon voyage, a moon astronomy course, a moon settlement—these perfectly ordinary phrases became anything but ordinary the moment they were linked to the Moon.
After the crowd cleared, Professor McGonagall approached Dumbledore. She hesitated, but eventually asked in a low voice.
"Albus, why have you arranged things this way?"
"This way? Ah, I've always thought Taylor was mature enough to take on certain necessary duties."
Dumbledore answered with a genial smile, as though everything was under control.
Professor McGonagall shook her head slightly, her gaze sharp. "Although it was rather sudden, there's no question that he can handle it and shoulder the responsibility. What I don't understand is why he's going there on his own, while you aren't going to oversee the construction and exploration. You've been fascinated by the place from the beginning."
Dumbledore looked back at Professor McGonagall. His longtime, dependable colleague no longer seemed willing to let the matter drop as she once had. Her expression was resolute, as though she would not rest without an answer.
After a brief silence, Dumbledore shook his head slightly. "Conditions there may be harsher, but it's safer. I'm staying here because there are things I must do."
"Things you must do?"
"That's all I can tell you, Minerva. Taylor will be absolutely safe on the Moon. Even if something goes wrong here,
"he won't be caught up in it."
Dumbledore shook his head and fell silent, unwilling to reveal anything more.
Professor McGonagall exchanged a brief, questioning look with Dumbledore, then nodded. "Very well, if you