SABAISM | H. POTTER

TWENTY. | THE END OF SECOND YEAR

The ternary lions, enveloped in mud and slime, stood in Dumbledore's office, a subdued picture of triumph and tension. Their eyes flitted to Fawkes, who was majestically perched on a pedestal behind the Headmaster's desk. Gemini Lupin-Black broke the silence, her voice tinged with newfound respect, "Before we dive into the thick of it, I'd like to express my appreciation for birds. They really are quite fascinating."

Albus Dumbledore chuckled, the warm sound brightening the atmosphere. Much like her mother, Gemini possessed an uncanny ability to illuminate even the darkest moments with her lighthearted quips. "Indeed, Miss Lupin-Black," he responded, his eyes twinkling behind his half-moon spectacles. "Fawkes would surely appreciate your recognition. After all, it's not every day one encounters a phoenix in such a delightful state." As he turned his focus to the tattered diary resting on the polished mahogany desk, a wave of awe washed over him. "Ingenious. Simply... ingenious. Tom Riddle was undoubtedly one of the most brilliant students Hogwarts has ever seen. I taught him myself fifty years ago."

As nostalgia swept over Dumbledore, he continued, "After he left, I occasionally heard whispers of his exploits—dark rumors that faded with time. When he resurfaced as Lord Voldemort, many had almost forgotten the clever Head Boy he once was."

Gemini scoffed lightly, the rebellious spirit in her reflected in her words. "With all due respect, Professor, Hermione Granger is the most brilliant student Hogwarts has ever seen, and she's only in her second year." The comment elicited a smile from Dumbledore, but he shifted the conversation back to the matter at hand.

Ginny, nestled behind the trio and partially eclipsed by her parents, offered her own input, "I didn't know it was dangerous! I found that diary in my cauldron." She cast a quick glance at the older Gryffindors, hoping they would understand her innocence. "It was the day we all went to Diagon Alley... I've had it ever since." Her cheeks flushed at their worried expressions as she continued, "But I understand if...given everything that's happened... if you—"

"Wiser wizards than you have been deceived by Lord Voldemort, Miss Weasley," Dumbledore interjected softly. "No, I think you've endured enough. However, might I suggest a bit of bed rest and a large mug of hot chocolate? That's what I find cheers me up on days like these."

"Minerva, would you kindly escort Arthur and Molly to the hospital wing?" Grandma Minnie, lifted her gaze and shot a sharp look at Gemini, responding, "Certainly, Albus." As the quartet exited, the resonating voice of Molly Weasley echoed down the stone halls. "A diary that writes back to you! Honestly, Ginny! Haven't I always told you? Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can't see where it keeps its brain!"

Gemini whistled under her breath, turning back to Dumbledore. "So, I'm assuming my dad has been informed?" At his confirming nod, Gemini turned to her two friends, her face lighting up. "Well, it was nice knowing you both. Please send my love to Hermione! Trust me, if you think my reaction was bad... just wait." Dumbledore chuckled at her playful sarcasm, and once again, his attention turned gravely back to the trio.

"Now, you three realize you've broken perhaps a dozen school rules in the last few hours?" he reprimanded. Gemini mused, offering a lighthearted shrug, "A bit of a record, don't you think? Freddie and Georgie will be proud."

Nevertheless, Dumbledore pressed on. "You do realize there's enough evidence to expel you all," he stated with a hint of seriousness.

The trio, catching the weight of his words, chorused, "Yes, sir." Just as the specter of expulsion loomed over them, Dumbledore's blue eyes twinkled behind his spectacles. "Therefore, it seems only fitting that you each receive Special Awards for Services to the School. And—let's see—yes, I think I shall award each of you two hundred points, which should comfortably secure Gryffindor the House Cup."