yeah, I hear ya. Like I said, probably wishful thinking. If he's gone, he can't die. Because in all reality, I think if he plays a role, JK will kill him, which makes me very sad. I agree that his character is important; he has been an absolute constant in Harry's life thus far. I think it would be really stupid of her to kill him though; I know she'd be thinking she's showing everyone what happens when you make the wrong choices, but it would be a much better lesson to have him switch sides. Prove that the choices really are what make us who we are, like she had Dumbledore say. Anyhoo... I just hope he doesn't die. :)