Hogwarts Legacy: The Price of Power

A Tight Corner

Dracaena, Ominis and Sebastian stood before Professor Weasley as she moved behind her desk, sinking down into her chair with a world-weary sigh. She waved a hand, and they settled opposite, trying their very best to look as baffled and innocent as possible.

"Were any of you in Upper Hogsfield last night?" she asked, without preamble.

"No," they all said, far too quickly, and Professor Weasley sighed again. She reached under her desk and pulled out a copy of the Daily Prophet, spreading it neatly before them.

Dracaena and Sebastian leaned over, eyeing the glaring headline with sinking hearts, the accompanying, moving portrait underneath depicting a snarling manticore swiping at a group of people.

MANTICORE ATTACK IN UPPER HOGSFIELD

Ministry Wizards Avert Catastrophe; Seven Villagers Perish in Tragic Encounter

In a shocking turn of events, the quaint village of Upper Hogsfield was thrown into chaos yesterday evening as a Manticore wreaked havoc upon its unsuspecting inhabitants. The peaceful ambiance of this wizarding community was shattered when the ferocious beast descended upon the village, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror as the Manticore attacked. Tragically, seven villagers lost their lives before reinforcements from the Ministry of Magic's Department for the Control of Magical Creatures arrived on scene. The valiant efforts of Ministry wizards, led by Auror-in-Chief Gawain Robards, were instrumental in containing the Manticore and preventing further bloodshed.

"I have never seen anything quite like it," said a shaken witness who wished to remain anonymous. "We are indebted to the brave wizards who risked their lives to protect us."

The swift and coordinated response of the Ministry underscored the importance of vigilance in the face of such threats. Minister for Magic, Gideon Nott, issued a statement expressing his condolences to the families of the victims and commending the bravery of the Ministry personnel involved in the operation.

"Our hearts go out to those who have suffered such devastating losses," Minister Nott said. "The safety and security of all magical communities remain our top priority, and we will spare no effort in ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future."

As investigations into the incident continue, residents of Upper Hogsfield are left grappling with the aftermath. Minister Nott has expressed his desire to ensure the safety of all those involved, and in particular has requested an update on the safety of the Hogwarts students said to have been present at the time.

"Students were there?" Sebastian asked, hesitantly. "Is that why you've called us in, Professor?"

Professor Weasley's expression was one of a woman who was very close to reaching the end of her tether. She shifted in her seat, her half-moon spectacles sliding down her nose, and she tapped the newspaper.

"Um..." Dracaena peered at it. "We... we read the article, Professor. I don't know what you're asking us."

"Speak for yourself," Ominis muttered, and traced his wand over the article. He hissed under his breath as he read, then sat back with a groan. "Seven people... how truly dreadful. What a tragedy."

"We... still don't know why we're here, Professor," Dracaena said, and Professor Weasley repeated her motion, tapping on the paper, her fingertip landing purposefully on the picture of the manticore.