I like where this is going... I have just one minor quibble, but it's based entirely on one of Jo's post-publishing comments, and easily still accurate. That is, that Jo has said that Slughorn led the charge of townspeople, and also some Slytherins that were of age (the theory being, that being Slytherins they would make sure of their number and then attack when they thought they could achieve the most surprise and effect). I believe this is because she barely realized she'd screwed up her own point about how the houses had to get past their differences with that omission, and wanted to set things straight.
So it's not only Snape and Slughorn who fought for the battle among the Slytherins. However, it's quite possible that given their strategy, that house didn't suffer any losses in the attack.
(Plus you're disregarding Jo's thing about Harry and Ron not going back, but tell you the truth, so do I-- I think Harry would love to try to have a normal-ish year of school for once, though it's up to you whether or not he gets it, of course.)

Author's Response: Thanks for the review! I had no idea of the 'post-publishing' comment of Ms Rowling's regarding Slughorn leading the townspeople's charge. Huh. I had thought I'd read all of them! I can see why she would say that (as you say, to correct her own omission). Oh well. I guess it's not included now. But I'll go with your theory that none of them died and so my memorial service could still be accurate. :) And you're quite right, I am completely disregarding Ms Rowling's comments that Harry immediately became an auror under Kingsley. Call it poetic license or something Stay tuned. I'm been a bit blocked with the latest chapter, but I so want to finish this story, so more should be coming soon. cj

I was thrilled to read another great chapter to your wonderful story. Yours was my first H.P. Fanfiction and still one of my favorites. In fact, I started over from Chapter 1 when this latest piece came out. So a big proposal scene coming up . . . I wonder who that could be? I can’t wait to read more. Sorry I didn’t get the review to you in time to give you another Valentine present. Keep up the good work.

Author's Response: I love the gift of a review no matter the day of the year! Thank you so much for your kind words. When I hear that someone appreciates my story it makes me want to write even more. So thanks for the nudge to continue the current chapter. I have it half written! The problem is deciding whether to make it a short one and hurry on to the proposal in another chapter, or include it all and make it super long. Stay tuned. cj

I know i just reviewed, but i have to again. this story is just so amazing. I love fred, so i'm really glad that you put him in here. Its great that your one of the few authors that get a lot of reviews, and answer all of them. Thanks for the terific story.
-m

Author's Response: Thanks for the gift of another review! I'm fond of Fred as well. DH was difficult for me when he died. I was a bit in denial at first about it! And thanks for your words regarding me answering my reviews. I figure if someone has gone to the trouble of reviewing, the least I can do is take the time to answer. I truly appreciate my readers and reviewers! btw - check out my one-shot fic "Waiting" if you like Fred. He makes a cameo in that one. cj

*wipes tears away* I can't wait for more

Author's Response: Awww...I'm glad it moved you. More will come, but not for a while. This next chapter is not written at all yet. I'm a bit blocked at the moment I'm afraid. Stay tuned though. cj

this is the best Fan story , i have ever read...
a must read to every potter fan

hats off to you..........

Author's Response: Thanks so much for your kind words. I truly appreciate your review. I think you emailed me as well, is that right? cj

I really do love this story because it is such a perfect continuation of DH. The memorial service was just how I would picture it, and I'm glad that Harry was so vocal about Snape. It's so fitting to his character. I loved the joke George makes too! Great chapter. Can't wait to read more! :)

Author's Response: Thanks very much, Amanda. I'm glad the memorial is just how you imagined it would be. Keep reading adn reviewing! I'm working on the next chapter already. Wish me well. cj

i love that you are having his portrait moved. although the faculty all chased him and ran him off he in fact stayed on at hogwarts until the very end to protect the students from voldemorts deatheaters, not encourage them. im glad you chose to write it this way.

Author's Response: Aww shucks. Thanks. I had thought originally that Snape would have been in the office from the start (hence my idea in my story "Aftermath"). When I read Ms Rowling's thoughts, though, I figured this would have been in-keeping with her wishes. I'm glad you agree. cj

OMG IT'S BACK! I havn't seen this in ages! I'm so happy I love this fic so much! Oh joy and rapture! More as soon as you can? Please?

Author's Response: Yes! It's back. I was so stumped with part of the service, so took forever to update. I'm thrilled that you are pleased it is back though. I have nothing down for the next chapter, actually, so the next update will take a while unless I get much uninterrupted time on the computer (highly unlikely with only one good computer in the house). However, the one after that is completely finished! Stay tuned! cj

Another lovely chapter--thanks for continuing your saga and allowing us to live on with Harry & friends. I particularly liked George's claim that he was in the photo--EXACTLY what Fred would have done... Becky

Author's Response: Thanks so much for your review. I;m thrilled you think the comment was in-keeping with the twins' personalities. cj

this was a great chapter, it made me cry but still it was great one of my favorites so far can't wait for your next update

Author's Response: Thanks so much. I have mixed feelings about making you cry. I'm sorry for your being upset, but I am grateful that my writing created an emotional response! Stay tuned. cj