Hours after the battle had ended, the Dark Mark continued to shine and ripple over Hogwarts.

Ginny watched its progress from the Hospital Wing. At first it had shone a sickly green and stuck fast in its spot above the tower, but now it bobbed and swayed in the air and was fading away as the pink dawn crept over the horizon.

Tearing her eyes away from the window, Ginny looked around the hospital wing, which was teeming with people looking to be healed, supported, or informed. There was a sickly smell of disinfectant and blood, and the air was filled with wails and chatter and the occasional pop of some healing charm or another. Ginny let go of her mother's hand and rose, mumbling about the need for fresh air.

The hallways were no better. They were congested with students and teacher's looking for answers. As Ginny worked her way down the corridor, the crowds started to part and Ginny was acutely aware that her clothes had to be caked with blood. Though she knew that thanks to the Felix Felicis, it wasn't hers, she couldn't vouch for what those around her had to be thinking. Pushing through, Ginny found her way outside.

It seemed that was no place for a little peace. The grounds were swamped with black clad auroras, including a few that she knew from the Order. They each gave her curt, knowing nods before continuing on their way. Among the bustling auroras stood a blonde haired girl looking dreamily up at the sky. Ginny joined Luna, who was apparently looking at the same thing she had been staring at in the Hospital Wing. Luna didn't show any signs of recognition, but did tilt her head conspiratorially towards Ginny.

"A bit dirty, isn't it?"

A/N This is how my family deals with anguish. We mock it. I noticed how dirty the Dark Mark looks a couple days ago while my sister was rereading it. Maybe my mind has just sunk further into the gutter since the last time I saw it.