At that moment, in the Magical Research Institute at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Dumbledore, Grindelwald, Nicolas Flamel, Snape, Fiennes, and Horace Slughorn were engaged in a heated discussion.
All six were leading wizards in the current Wizarding World with a profound understanding of Horcruxes or life itself, and each had his own views on Horcruxes.
"That's not right, Severus. I don't think that's how it works. Oh, of course I know you've touched on the realm of the World of the Dead, but believe me, I have plenty of thoughts on death myself." Fiennes vigorously shook the magical manuscript in his hand. "I believe death isn't a process, but a state. That's the key."
Just as he was about to continue, a vibrating buzz abruptly interrupted his train of thought.
Mobile phones had yet to become commonplace among these wizards, so naturally, there was no rule about switching them off during meetings.
"Professor Slughorn!" Fiennes frowned at Slughorn. "I don't think this is a good time to fiddle with your magic mirror. Interesting though that magical item may be, Lockhart clearly can't offer you any more useful information. You should be focusing on our discussion."
Professor Slughorn glanced at the magic mirror with an odd expression, then held it upright to face everyone. "Perhaps you'll all find this interesting. A line of text has appeared on it."
—Shocking! Anton's grand expedition! Viewers around the globe are invited to join in!
Fiennes raised an eyebrow and exchanged a glance with Snape. Both knew something about Anton's "gray magic." In fact, they had long suspected that Anton would certainly need that peacock Lockhart as a host to help guide the gathering of collective consciousness.
Dumbledore and Grindelwald had discussed this privately as well. Grindelwald had once remarked with great emotion