Dumbledore was the first to applaud.
Once, twice, three times...
Applause gradually rose in the Great Hall. It was not particularly enthusiastic, but it was fairly uniform.
Gryffindor and Hufflepuff responded most eagerly. Ravenclaw was somewhat more scattered, while only a small number of Slytherins clapped a few times.
When the applause died down, Dumbledore rose again, and everyone's attention immediately converged on him.
"Thank you, Mr. Weasley, for your speech."
Dumbledore regarded the students warmly and said,
"Ensuring the safety of our students is indeed extremely important. I am sincerely gratified that the Ministry of Magic is willing to devote attention to this matter and put forward concrete measures."
"Please also remember—systems, measures, and our ancient castle walls—the fundamental reason they can protect our safety lies in the people who guard them."
He nodded to Percy and said,
"Please thank Minister Scrimgeour for me. Thank him for remembering, and for his concern."
"However, it is getting late."
Dumbledore raised an arm and said, "Would all Prefects please lead the students of their respective Houses back to their Common Rooms—off to bed, children. I hope you will all begin the new day tomorrow bright and refreshed."
"And I hope Professor McGonagall doesn't collect homework tomorrow!" Wade heard a student nearby mutter. "I don't know if I can finish my essay tonight!"
The long tables began to stir.
The scrape of chair legs against the floor rose and fell, mingling with the low hum of conversation.
Students got to their feet in twos and threes. Some stretched lazily, some gathered together to chat, while others yawned as they staggered toward the doors.
"Hey, Fred!"
At the Gryffindor table, Angelina Johnson waved openly at Fred. Her tall figure stood out amid the crowd, her dark skin glowing healthily in the candlelight.
"Angelina!"