Nightfall

An ordinary lunch at Hogwarts took on something of the air of a feast because of Amosta and Hermione's return. Caught up in the cheerful atmosphere, most people in the Great Hall found their appetites greatly improved, and plate after plate on the long tables was picked clean as though it had been washed.

But this was still a schoolday afternoon. After eating and drinking their fill, the young wizards and witches left their seats and returned to their respective house dormitories. They needed to prepare the textbooks for their afternoon classes before hurrying off to begin them.

The professors likewise had no extra time for idle chat. After arranging with Amosta to have a drink at The Three Broomsticks Inn in Hogsmeade over the weekend and hear his detailed account of how he had wiped out that organization, they too began to leave one after another.

"Following your orders, Filch has inspected every parcel and letter sent to Hogwarts these past few days. Oh, I must say, the procedure was absolutely necessary. You wouldn't believe the things these students have bought through all sorts of channels."

Before leaving, Professor McGonagall pressed her lips together and said this, taking several angry breaths.

"Filch gave me a list of the prohibited items delivered to Hogwarts, along with the names of the students who bought them. He also provided what he considered suitable disciplinary recommendations, but I think it would be best if you made the judgment, Amosta. The list is in my office now. You may collect it after classes end, before dinner begins."

Having said that, pressed for time, she strode away without waiting for Amosta's reply.

Making a mental note of it, Amosta turned to Snape.

"Are you really not joining the staff gathering this weekend?"

"I have no