Marlene quite liked being back at Hogwarts, especially now there wasn't anyone else around. She could imagine herself being one of the ghosts, floating from room to room, discovering secrets, and Marlene had to try hard to ignore the Slytherin voice in her head that told her that this was the time to have a good look around. She was here to meet with a new Order Member and determine what their place would be. Dumbledore had been quick to recogise Marlene's talents when it came to reading people, and Dorcas Meadowes was not the first person she had met with during the past month. It was always an interesting experience, however. Many new Order members were surprised to see her, some even angry. She was a Slytherin. Not a Pureblood, but those who belonged to the House of snakes tended to suffer close scrutiny. Marlene didn't mind. She had long since proven her worth as a member of the Order, and no matter who did or didn't believe her, Dumbledore had her unwavering loyalty.
Stopping in front of the old Transfiguration classroom, Marlene let herself in, her heels clicking softly on the floor. She nodded at Dorcas in greeting. Though she had been already filled in on the details and knew that Dorcas was a Ravenclaw who had been two years ahead of her in school, Marlene was now able to fit the picture to the facts. She had seen Dorcas a few times in the hallways during her time at Hogwarts, she recalled, but they had never had cause to talk. Until now.
"Marlene McKinnon, yes," she said, holding out her hand to shake. "I believe condolences are in order. I was very sorry to hear about your father." Her piercing blue eyes looked over the woman in front of her, taking in her drawn face. The war had touched many of them. It was a true shame.