Chapter 107
“Albus, I warned you!” The enraged Minister of Magic, hands clasped behind his back, slowly paced the Hogwarts Headmaster’s office. “There are already six injured people in the hospital wing, and the culprit still hasn’t been found!”
Dumbledore winced slightly at Fudge’s insolent tone but remained silent, allowing the enraged wizard to speak. A couple of hours earlier, another attack on students had occurred at the school, and this time the victims were none other than Gregory Goyle and Elvira Smith. Unfortunately, Diana Malfoy and Rigel Hellsing were the first to sound the alarm when their vassals failed to return to the common rooms, and within minutes, they had managed to raise alarm throughout Hogwarts. And when the bodies of the injured children were found, these same girls raised alarm throughout Wizarding Britain.
Before midnight, Amelia Bones arrived at the school with a whopping fifteen DMLE investigators, followed by Barty Crouch Sr. with two dozen Aurors, and the icing on the cake was the appearance of the Minister for Magic and the Head of the Board of Governors. While the law enforcement officers combed the school for possible evidence and witnesses, Fudge immediately began accusing Dumbledore of negligence and inaction. Even Malfoy was surprised by the Minister’s behavior, choosing not to interfere and standing silently to the side the entire time, studying the contents of the Headmaster’s personal library. Besides this influential pair, another wizard, Sirius Black, was present in the office; he sat quietly on the sofa and glanced guiltily at Dumbledore.
“Did you know the Malfoy heiress has already told Rita Skeeter about everything?! What am I going to tell the press tomorrow?!” Fudge continued to speak in a raised voice, glancing sideways at the temporary Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. “While an unknown person is attacking students, the professors who are supposed to be keeping them safe are engaging in debauchery! And where?! Right here in this school! And all this, Albus, with your connivance!”
Dumbledore frowned and glared at Black. Not only had this lecherous bastard once again decided to spend his night shift in Aurora Sinistra’s arms, but he’d also managed to get caught! The Slytherin prefects witnessed a half-naked Sirius running out of the astronomy professor’s private quarters after the alarm was raised. Naturally, they immediately reported this to the arriving law enforcement officers, who reported it to the Minister, who seized the opportunity to rib the headmaster.
This latest attack even amused Albus, as Fudge had practically accused him of Black’s inability to keep his dignity in his pants. After all, all of Wizarding Britain knew about the amorous escapades of the heir to the most ancient and noble family, and if not for the title of Master of Combat Magic, which he had earned, he would have been killed or at least castrated long ago. Dumbledore had no intention of lecturing the horny dog about morals and family values; he was far more concerned that Sirius wasn’t making advances toward the young Hellsing. True, to achieve this, the headmaster had to have a talk with Black. Dumbledore promised the negligent father that if he started pestering Rigel with “paternal affection,” he would instantly find himself on the steps of Hellsing Manor—thankfully, Fawkes remembered where it was. The newly-minted Defense Against the Dark Arts professor was impressed and from then on tried to ignore the girl, which pleased the light wizard.
“I propose we release Mr. Black,” Malfoy said quietly while the Minister of Magic was catching his breath. “We’ve already seen his unworthy behavior and disregard for his duties.”
“Be jealous in silence, Lucius,” Sirius snapped and straightened his robes.
“I don’t envy you,” the blond lord grimaced. “I rather sympathize with your wife and daughters, who were unlucky enough to have such a husband and father.”
“And this is what a former Death Eater, who knelt before a pathetic half-blood and licked his boots, is telling me?” Black smirked in response. “Lucy, maybe you licked something else from him? What does the Dark Lord’s arse taste like?”
“And I’m being asked such a question by an Animagus wizard whose animal form is a mangy cur?” Malfoy’s grin spread wickedly. “Sirius, how often did you lick your balls and arse as a dog?” The blond lord immediately looked worriedly at Dumbledore. “Headmaster, I’m extremely concerned for the health of Hogwarts students, so I suggest you immediately check Professor Black for fleas and worms!”
“Let’s check the members of the board of trustees for a stylish tattoo?” The black-haired wizard jumped up from the sofa. “Lucius, roll up the sleeve on your right arm!”
– Enough! – Albus crushed the disputants with magic. – Adult wizards, and you behave like first-years! Mr. Black, you are free to go!
“Goodbye, Mr. Minister, Director.” Sirius walked proudly out of the office.
“Cornelius.” When the door closed behind Black, the light wizard addressed the minister in the calmest possible tone. “You know perfectly well that the lives and health of the injured students are not in danger; we just need to wait until the end of June. The mandrakes will ripen, Professor Prince will brew the potion, after which we will learn the name of the attacker, and then, within the law, of course, we will determine his guilt and punishment.”
“This is taking too long!” Fudge barked. “The parents of the injured children demand immediate action from me!”
“Please…” Dumbledore gestured toward the door. “I am ready to provide any assistance, and if necessary, we will call an extraordinary meeting of the Wizengamot tomorrow and involve the Department of Mysteries in the investigation.”
“No, Albus, you misunderstood me.” The Minister of Magic smirked and pulled a roll of expensive parchment from his pocket. “The esteemed wizards demand that your inaction cease immediately. It is precisely because of your connivance that Mordred knows what is happening at Hogwarts!”
“Cornelius, have we already discussed this issue, or…” The Light Mage feigned surprise. “Have they decided to fire me?”
“Not exactly…” The Minister of Magic hesitated slightly. “In a secret ballot, the majority of the board of trustees voted against your resignation.”
“Hm… Quite expected.” Dumbledore allowed himself a satisfied smile and leaned back in his throne-like chair.
“Mr. Dumbledore, the Board of Governors has made this decision not because they consider your leadership of Hogwarts to be brilliant or even satisfactory…” Malfoy looked at the Headmaster with a saccharine smile. “The noble wizards understand how much time and energy you devote to the school, and if you are dismissed, you will be able to devote much more attention to your political activities and the affairs of the Ministry of Magic.”
“Thank you, Lucius, many are truly dissatisfied with Mr. Dumbledore’s performance as Headmaster of Hogwarts.” Cornelius Fudge nodded to the blond wizard and approached the light wizard’s desk. “And the reason lies not in his lack of professionalism or advanced age, but in simple fatigue.”
– Tired? – The Illustrious Lord and the light wizard asked this question simultaneously.
“Exactly!” The Minister of Magic beamed. “A week ago, I went into the Education Department and learned to my horror that the Headmaster of Hogwarts hasn’t taken a holiday in 37 years, since 1955! Lucius, can you imagine? Mr. Dumbledore has practically been living at work for years now! And that’s not even taking into account his active work in the Wizengamot and the ICM.”
“Indeed, Mr. Dumbledore’s hard work and diligence are worthy of respect,” Malfoy nodded thoughtfully. “But such a workload can undermine the health of even a great light wizard.”
“Lucius, I thought exactly the same.” Fudge smiled and handed the headmaster an expensive scroll of parchment. “Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, in accordance with Order 04K0 of the Education Department of the Ministry of Magic of Magical Britain, you are hereby sent on paid leave.”
– Why the f… – The Headmaster of Hogwarts was genuinely indignant, but the Minister of Magic interrupted him.
“From May 7th to August 29th, 1992.” Cornelius pulled a heavy bag of jingling coins from his pocket and carefully placed it in front of the bearded wizard. “Albus, your vacation pay.”
– Hm… Good. – Dumbledore carefully read the official document, but could not find any flaw in it. – I will hand over all matters to Minerva tomorrow.
“That won’t be necessary.” Fudge smiled again. “To avoid increasing the already enormous workload on your deputy and the other Hogwarts professors, the Ministry of Magic has appointed a temporary acting Headmaster. Albus, while you’re on leave, this wizard will conduct a thorough review of the school’s records and determine your effectiveness as Headmaster of this educational institution.”
“And who is this distinguished wizard?” Albus chuckled and glanced sideways at Malfoy, who was feigning interest as he leafed through an ancient tome on Transfiguration. “Although… It’s not hard to guess.”
– Me? – The blond wizard looked up from his book, and the mask of arrogance on his face cracked, revealing to everyone present a look of genuine surprise and incomprehension. – Cornelius?
“Oh, come on, Lucius, how could I appoint you to such a responsible position without warning you?” The Minister of Magic began to reassure the wealthy lord. “Such a job requires an experienced manager and steward, after all, Hogwarts is the only school in Wizarding Britain, and the future of our country depends on its well-being. That’s why I’ve decided to take on such a heavy burden myself.”
“Thank Merlin…” Malfoy exhaled. “Cornelius, if you need help, you can count on me.”
“Lucius, I knew you were a true patriot and could always be relied upon!” Fudge smiled contentedly and, approaching, shook the illustrious lord’s hand. “Furthermore, you are a brilliant diplomat, an experienced lawyer, and an excellent manager. I was not mistaken in you!”
– Um… Cornelius… – The blond lord had a bad feeling, and he took a small step towards the fireplace. – What are you getting at?
“What do you mean?!” Fudge feigned surprise. “Ruling a country takes a tremendous amount of time and energy, and for me, the well-being of the citizens of Magical Britain is paramount! Therefore, by the will of the Minister of Magic, I appoint you as Acting Headmaster of Hogwarts. Lucius, you are an unrivaled and talented wizard, and I trust you completely. You will have no trouble bringing order to this school and providing a competent assessment of Mr. Dumbledore’s performance as Headmaster.”
“Cornelius, this is too much responsibility…” Malfoy took another step towards the fireplace. “I have no experience at all and I might not live up to it…”
“Nonsense.” The Minister of Magic interrupted the cunning aristocrat. “The order has already been signed and approved in absentia by the Board of Trustees and the Department of Education.”
– I don’t… – Malfoy stood rooted to the spot.
“Lucius, thank you again for your invaluable contribution to the development of Wizarding Britain. Our country depends on wizards like you!” Cornelius shook the perplexed aristocrat’s hand again and headed for the fireplace. “Unfortunately, I must be going now; tomorrow morning I have an important meeting at the Pharmacy Regulation Department. We will be discussing Mr. Macmillan’s initiative to standardize paper wrappings for fragrant wormwood and glass jars for storing carnivorous slugs.”
“Thank you,” Malfoy replied through clenched teeth. “Cornelius, may I know the names of those noble wizards who nominated my humble candidacy for this important position? I would like to personally thank them for the honor.”
“Of course! I’ll send you a list tomorrow morning, along with detailed instructions and reporting forms. And keep in mind, any decisions are made only with the approval of the Acting Headmaster of Hogwarts, that is, me.” The wizard in the bowler hat had already scooped up a pinch of Floo powder and turned around. “Albus, have a nice rest. Lucius, write when you’re ready. Dear wizards, good night.”
The fireplace flames flared green, and the Minister of Magic vanished, leaving two pensive wizards in the room. Albus carefully examined the stunned Malfoy and chuckled amusedly. Cornelius thought he’d fooled everyone, and the light wizard wasn’t about to dissuade him. Dumbledore was well aware of the impending action, as he had his people not only on the Board of Governors but also in the Education Department. Dumbledore knew perfectly well that he wouldn’t be fired and would likely be asked to return to Hogwarts by the summer, as the interim headmaster simply couldn’t take it any longer. Albus stole a glance at the portraits of the former Hogwarts headmasters and chuckled softly. Malfoy would soon find out why they were always asleep.
The Light wizard wasn’t worried about the school. Firstly, the deans loyal to him remained there, and secondly, no matter how arrogant a jerk Malfoy was, he wouldn’t harm the school his children attended. And thanks to the vacation that had suddenly fallen out of the sky, Dumbledore would not only be able to rest but also take care of Ministry matters he hadn’t had time for. At the same time, he would be able to strengthen the position of the Light Party, since the leader of the Dark Party would be fully occupied with Hogwarts’ affairs.
– Mr. Malfoy, would you like some tea? – Dumbledore politely addressed the aristocrat.
– Do you have anything stronger? – The illustrious lord looked at the director from under his brows.
“No need.” The Hogwarts Headmaster dramatically examined the enormous pile of papers on his desk. “If we start now, we’ll be there in time for breakfast. I think you should warn your wife that today, as in the coming months, you’ll be spending your nights away from home.”
“Mordred…” Malfoy plopped down in the nearest chair and said quietly. “Narcissa will kill me…”
***
The day after the attack on Elvira, I went to breakfast incredibly angry and sleep-deprived. I was once again convinced that all wizards are crazy and sometimes behave extremely illogically. Before the Easter break, all the students were literally pissed by the Slytherin Horror and could only move around the school accompanied by adults. This made sense, since an elusive villain was roaming Hogwarts, and no one wanted to be trapped in a magical coma until the end of June. However, a couple of days after the break, everyone simply abandoned this rule! And this is completely illogical, since the villain was never caught! But the prefects and older students, with the tacit consent of the deans, stopped accompanying the little ones, who were only too happy to have this new freedom of movement.
Seeing everyone’s general sloppiness and indifference, I decided to play it safe and somehow protect my friends. To this end, I wove a dozen cute leather bracelets that would alert me if their owner was in danger. Implementing such a plan turned out to be no easy task, and I had to consult with the Order’s artifact makers several times. But, as they say, patience and hard work make a man a monkey, so after almost two weeks, I managed. The most difficult part was linking these crafts to the control artifact, but I managed that, too. From now on, if one of my friends was in danger, one of the colored crystals on the wide bracelet dangling from my left wrist would begin to heat up and glow.
However, all my efforts were in vain! Yesterday, when the Scumbag attacked Elvira, the purple stone on my bracelet didn’t react at all! I knew for sure this system was working, because whenever Ron or Justin entered the boys’ dorm, their stones would begin to warm up slightly and glow. Could it be that the Scumbag didn’t mean the girl any harm? But then why did he attack? Or does this bastard know a way around this simple, yet very reliable, defense? In any case, it doesn’t matter anymore, because my friend is in the hospital wing, and this bastard is freely wandering around the school.
As I approached the table, I glanced at the Slytherin table and waved at a gloomy Diana and the Black sisters sitting next to her. Yeah, we caused quite a stir yesterday. When Elvira didn’t return to the common room at the appointed time, I got worried and pulled the Marauder’s Map from my bag. A couple of minutes of searching, and the dots labeled Smith and Goyle were found in the third-floor gallery. At first, I shamefully thought the lovebirds were having a romantic date, but then I remembered how old they were, and I suddenly felt no longer in the mood for jokes. I immediately called Diana and informed her of my suspicions, then woke Percy. Just five minutes later, the combined Gryffindor and Slytherin rescue teams met on the third floor, but found only two pale, half-dead bodies.
While the prefects were casting Patronuses at the Heads of House, Malfoy managed to call my father and the Minister of Magic, and I reported the incident to my mother and Maria Black. By the time Dumbledore arrived on the scene, Diana was already chatting with Rita Skeeter, vividly describing the chaos going on at the school. Our efforts were not in vain, and within half an hour, Hogwarts was flooded with Aurors and D.M.E. investigators, but they were useless! This useless herd wandered the school corridors all night, pretending to work! I spent the entire night monitoring these useless idiots through the Marauder’s Map and even discovered a pattern in their movements.
As I walked past the worried students, I couldn’t figure out who I was angrier at: myself for failing to protect my friend, or the useless clowns from the Ministry of Magic.
“I’m telling you for sure, Smith gave herself to Goyle right there in the corridor, and for that, the Slytherin Horror punished them both.” McLaggen’s quiet voice reached my ear. “And rightly so! Some Mudblood seduced the pureblood heir.”
“Cormac, are you accusing a vassal of the sacred Hellsing family of debauchery?” I stopped and grabbed the third-year student by the shoulder. “Or were you there, holding a candle?”
– Um… Hellsing… – The guy turned around and looked me insolently in the face. – That’s what everyone says, so I…
The broad-shouldered third-year didn’t have time to finish, as he took a knee to the kidneys and then slammed his head on the table several times. That wasn’t enough, so I dropped the limp, struggling body to the floor and repeatedly introduced his face to the toes of my shoes. I genuinely wanted to jump on his useless head, but I overcame the insane urge and left the bloody idiot alone.
“Hellsing, would you dare challenge him to a duel?” Potter’s mocking voice came from behind. “Real wizards defend their honor with a wand, not a Muggle fistfight.”
“You’re right, Potter.” I turned around, smiled sweetly at my brother, and pulled my trusty MP5 from under my robes. “But I’m no ordinary witch, I’m a member of the Order of Protestant Knights, and we prefer to punish our enemies without the showy clowning.”
“Do you think duels are a sham?!” The indignant bespectacled man stepped forward. “You’ve been wiping the dueling platform with your robe for a month now and you haven’t beaten me once! You’re a cowardly weakling!”
“Harry, winning and killing are two different things.” I looked seriously into those green eyes, so familiar, yet so alien. “You were taught to win from childhood, but I was always taught to kill. Do you understand the difference?”
Without waiting for an answer, I turned around and silently took my place at the table. I simply didn’t want to continue this stupid conversation, and besides, I was so angry and upset that I could barely contain myself from wringing this insolent asshole’s neck. Yes, Harry isn’t the nicest person, but he’s my blood brother, and killing him is a terrible sin, especially since today I was about to perform a sacred act for which I’d prepared for so long.
– Riya, how are you? – My best friend put her hand on my shoulder. – Maybe we should postpone it?
“No!” I looked firmly into his milk-chocolate eyes. “Today is the anniversary of Myrtle’s death, and today we are sending her off to the Maker’s Hall!” (Author’s note: I know that canonically, Myrtle died on June 13, 1943, but the date has been changed for the sake of consistency in this work.)
“You’re right,” Mia smiled sadly. “Otherwise we’ll have to wait another year…”
“Dear students! I need your attention for a moment!” Our conversation was interrupted by Dumbledore’s loud voice, rising from his desk. “It pains me to say this, but in these dark times for the school, I am forced to leave. This is not my wish, but the will of the esteemed Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge.” The bearded old man sighed heavily and looked sadly at the students. “Children, forgive me. I have worked tirelessly for the good of Hogwarts for almost forty years, but today the Ministry of Magic is ordering me to take leave… It turns out even the headmaster is entitled to rest, and the officials decided not to wait until after exams. Forgive me again, but as Chief Warlock of Magical Britain, I am obliged to uphold the laws of my beloved country…”
Amidst a general gasp of shock and some students’ outraged cries, the headmaster continued his mournful speech. I couldn’t care less about the bearded old man’s words; I understood perfectly well that Dumbledore had simply been temporarily suspended for his accumulated mistakes and would soon return. At that moment, I was more concerned with Elvira’s fate and the upcoming rite of repose for her restless soul. So I continued mechanically eating my porridge and listening to Dumbledore, but by the end of his speech, he managed to surprise even me. I simply hadn’t expected Lucius Malfoy, who had been sitting at the professors’ table with a haughty expression the entire time, to become the acting headmaster.
As soon as the blond lord rose from his seat, a deathly silence fell over the Great Hall, broken by a sparse round of applause from the Slytherins. I decided to support our family friend, so I stood up and started clapping, and naturally, Mia, Justin, and… everyone else joined in. Looking at us, the Slytherins rose in unison and greeted the interim headmaster in the proper manner. A couple of minutes later, silence reigned once more, and everyone stared with interest at Lucius Malfoy, who nodded silently and sat back down.
“Well, I’m sure I’m leaving you in good hands, so I’ll see you soon!” Dumbledore bowed politely and vanished in a flash of fire.
“Rigel, why were you applauding that peacock?” Weasley turned away from the teacher and looked at me in confusion. “But he’s a former Death Eater?!”
– Ron, it was basic politeness. – I smiled at my friend. – And why are you so against Malfoy?
– What do you mean? – The red-haired guy even jumped up from his seat. – He’s going to favor the Slytherins!
– Does he need it?
– Of course, don’t you understand that?! – Ron even blushed with indignation. – His children are in Slytherin and now he will turn a blind eye to their pranks!
“Do Diana and Romulus often break the rules?” I looked questioningly at the redhead. “Or will Lord Malfoy shield all the Slytherins out of solidarity?”
– What? – Weasley froze for a second. – Solidarity? What’s that?
“Ron, calm down, I’m sure nothing will change at Hogwarts with the interim headmaster,” Mia said soothingly to the indignant red-haired boy.
“Girls, shut up!” Brown’s quiet voice rang out.
I wanted to be indignant, but I heard the quiet and extremely interesting speech of Malfoy Sr.:
“… mercenaries will be on duty at Hogwarts around the clock and will monitor security. If these wizards insult you or offend you in any way, immediately report it to the nearest professor.” Lucius took a breath. “Also, with the consent of the Minister of Magic, I am rescinding Headmaster Dumbledore’s order banning corporal punishment. From now on, no detentions or non-magical scrubbing. From now on, negligent students will be flogged, in public! Regardless of their background or influential relatives! I will personally oversee this! Any other questions?”
Naturally, there were no questions, as many understood that Malfoy was one of the most influential wizards in Wizarding Britain and was not to be trifled with. And if he said that violators would be beaten, then so be it. So, to the cheerful laughter of Filch, who came up to the teachers’ table with a whip, the students began to silently and thoughtfully leave the Great Hall, especially since classes had been cancelled for the day and everyone had been sent to the common rooms.
– Perfect day. – I smiled at Mia. – Shall we go?
– I agree. – Her best friend nodded in response. – And what will we tell the professors?
“It’s all the Creator’s will.” I looked seriously into my best friend’s eyes. “We’re not trying for ourselves…”
“And for His glory and for the sake of a restless soul.” The girl hugged me tightly. “I’m ready…”
“Where are you all going?” Percy asked us on the stairs. “The Acting Headmaster of Hogwarts has ordered everyone to the common rooms.”
– Will you take me to the toilet? – I nodded towards the approaching third floor. – Maybe you can hold my skirt too?
– Hellsing… – Our headman was embarrassed. – As always… No shame, no conscience.
– Do I need to remind you about that one trip to Hogwarts? – I looked insolently at the red-haired senior.
“You didn’t see anything,” Percy pointedly turned away. “Just like I didn’t see the two second-year girls who didn’t make it to the common room.”
“It’s a pleasure doing business with you.” I moved to the edge of the stairs. “A tireless stallion.”
“Are you going to remind me of this for the rest of my studies?” the red-haired class monitor grumbled.
– Of course! – I smiled slyly in response. – We’re friends, after all.
– Go ahead already… – The red-haired guy shook his head. – I’ll probably cover for you…
Mia and I nodded in response and descended the stairs on the third floor as discreetly as possible, and a couple of minutes later, we entered Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom. Without waiting for the restless soul to appear, I began placing candles on the floor, while my best friend hung a silver cross on the wall and glued a picture of the Creator to the ceiling.
“Myrtle, are you ready?” I asked the ghost as I lit the last candle. “Today you died, and today your torment will end.”
“I’m afraid…” came from the far booth.
“Myrtle, are you kidding me?!” I said, my voice audible and outraged. “We’ve already discussed this! I’ve already made arrangements with the Bishop and the Creator’s Apostle! They’re waiting for you upstairs, and you’re acting like…”
“I’m ready…” A nervous, translucent girl in glasses and a school robe appeared in front of me. “What should I do?”
– Do you see the circle of candles? – Myrtle nodded. – Stand there.
“Rigel, Hermione…” The girl spoke quietly as she took her place among the consecrated candles. “I’ve always lived in fear, and because of it, I lost everyone I loved… But I’m incredibly grateful to you and…” The ghost was a little embarrassed and smiled sincerely. “I’ve only heard about this and I don’t know how to…” Myrtle hesitated, and for a second her eyes lit up. “I bless you, with all my cowardly and worthless soul…”
– I accept. – I smiled back.
Kneeling down, I yanked the elastic out of my hair and, shaking my head, straightened my hair. Last summer, in a fit of rage, Mia and I got our hair cut into bobs, or whatever the correct style is; I’ve never been much of a hairstylist. Anyway, before the school year started, our hair barely touched our shoulders, but over the years, it’s grown past our shoulder blades, a beautiful sight. After all, a braid is a girlish beauty, so Mia and I decided to stop experimenting with our hairstyles and will stick to this length from now on.
Creator, what thoughts are creeping into my head from excitement… I am performing this ritual for the first time and forgive me, a sinner, if something is wrong… Know that I sincerely believe and sincerely wish happiness for this restless soul.
“Mia, are you ready?” I looked excitedly at my kneeling friend and clutched the crucifix tighter in my left hand.
– Of course. – The girl smiled and took a large silver cross from her bosom. – Begin.
“Myrtle, stay still.” I turned my gaze to the translucent girl. “Father Benedict said it would hurt a little at first…”
– Rigel… – The ghost interrupted me. – While I was alive, I experienced so much pain that I’m used to it…
I didn’t answer and spent a couple of minutes gathering my thoughts to pray wholeheartedly to the Creator. When I felt ready, I simply began reciting the prayer I’d memorized, hoping He would hear me:I raised my head and looked at the Holy Face glued to the ceiling, which caused it to glow slightly, and bloody tears began to flow from its eyes…
The candles burned even brighter, and a bright white glow began to form around Myrtle…
The light around the ghost girl grew even brighter and began to envelop me and Hermione… Meanwhile, I continued to whisper…It was becoming increasingly difficult to speak, but I didn’t stop, because I knew there was no turning back… Before my eyes, the bright glow turned into a white flame and engulfed Myrtle… At that very second, I was deafened by a terrible scream of pain and suffering… I immediately reached forward and squeezed Mia’s hand until it crunched, and she bit her lip until it bled… Everything is right… We are the initiators of this ritual, and this girl’s pain must pass through our bodies. If there were more of us, it would be easier, but there are few believers in Hogwarts, so we have to endure… Creator, help us and this restless soul… In a hoarse voice, I continued to whisper:
