As all students have already heard...

[alt_mcgonagall]

In light of recent events, exams and Defense Against the Dark Arts lessons have been cancelled. All other lessons shall continue as one might expect.

I have heard the most absurd rumors regarding what occurred last night. To put these wild speculations to rest, then: Hydra Lestrange was found to have been possessed by a malicious spirit, which was also controlling the actions of a basilisk hidden deep in the castle's plumbing system. Through courage, daring, and research, Draco Malfoy, Ron Weasley and Harry Marvolo deduced these facts and sought adult assistance in resolving the situation. However, they discovered that Gilderoy Lockhart - our former Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher - was a snake in the grass. He forced them to accompany him to confront the basilisk, and when he was hurt in the pursuit, Mr Marvolo took the initiative and despatched the beast. 

The potion to awaken the Petrified individuals has been administered, and they are slowly recovering in the Hospital wing - as are Hydra Lestrange and Ginny Weasley, who you may recall was missing last night as well. Professor Carrow, naturally, has been cleared of all wrongdoing in these matters.

As a result of these events, the Lord Protector has come to Hogwarts Castle. While He will not be available for the majority of the day, He will grace our table at supper tonight. A feast shall be held in His honor and all students are requested and required to attend in their best.

Comments

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[alt_poppy]

'However, they discovered that Gilderoy Lockhart - our former Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher - was a snake in the grass.'

That's as opposed to the snake in the pipes, I take it, Minerva?

To be honest, while I'm sure he'd have fancied himself a python, Gilderoy Lockhart has never been more than a slow worm in a well-manicured garden.

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[alt_sirius]

Poppy - is Harry all right?

I suppose Minerva's a little fussed with Voldemort there and all.

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[alt_mcgonagall]

Entirely safe - although, I gather, only by the grace of phoenix tears.

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[alt_sirius]

And he really went against a basilisk? By himself?

I -

I mean to say. I ought to be cross at him for taking such a foolish chance, but I can't stop grinning, all the same.

He's James's son, all right.

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[alt_mcgonagall]

And a true Gryffindor.

I managed to hide the sword and the existence of the phoenix from the Lord Protector; Marvolo, fortunately, is sensible of the fact that his Father would not enjoy knowing that his son is a true Gryffindor - and that none of his dictums can suppress it.

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[alt_molly]

I know. Oh, Minerva, this actually brought tears to my eyes. It makes me think of what Frank always says--go, go, Gryffindor!

It means that at least some of James and Lily must live on in the boy. And if the Lord Protector has taken him as his ward but still can't corrupt his essential nature...there may be hope for the rest of us yet.

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[alt_poppy]

He is all right, Sirius. But as Minerva has hinted, he suffered a bite and would undoubtedly have died in the Chamber had it not been for the phoenix's timely intervention.

I had very little opportunity to speak to the boy, you understand, but I did examine him and found him whole save for a few scrapes and bruises. He was most impressed with the phoenix, but then Malfoy put his nose into the office and the boy stopped mid-phrase and said not another word. I rather think he's decided not to say anything to them about it, which seems very wise.

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[alt_mcgonagall]

Punning, Poppy?

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[alt_poppy]

I was grateful for the chuckle your phrasing inspired.

I wish I thought I would never again have to give Him a report on my treatment of that boy's injuries. Thank goodness it was nothing dire this time. I'm quite certain I couldn't have suppressed the business of the bite and the phoenix if he'd thought it more than a formality to question me.