Omen of Death

Since the meeting began, the longest stretch of silence yet descended. Everyone stared at Amosta Breen, but not a single person made a sound.

Amosta's proposal had gone beyond mere fancifulness. It was simply inconceivable!

"Ah-ha!"

Then, all of a sudden, Phineas Black, Sirius's great-grandfather, shouted from the portrait frame hanging on the wall.

"Wonderful, Amosta! A brilliant idea! There couldn't possibly be a more suitable candidate. I wholeheartedly agree!"

A wave of support rose one after another. For the first time, Headmaster Dippet, who had always been at odds with Phineas, agreed with him. He clapped vigorously for Amosta's idea and joined his colleagues in voicing his approval.

Dumbledore did not seem especially surprised by Amosta's proposal. Yet when Amosta actually voiced it, the light in his bright blue eyes behind his half-moon spectacles flickered. He seemed somewhat hesitant, but after glancing at Amosta's unwavering expression, Dumbledore ultimately did not speak in opposition.

The tension in Professor McGonagall's face finally eased. She cast a sidelong look at Karkaroff, whose sallow cheeks were gradually reddening, and the corners of her mouth curved upward.

Perhaps Moody was one of only two people at the table who understood what Amosta's proposal truly meant. He did not object, and a detached indifference drifted through his gaze.

Ludo Bagman's hesitation was understandable to everyone. As the Ministry of Magic's sole official attending this meeting, Ludo felt he ought to raise the issue. But this proposal came from Amosta, the man who held a great many of his secrets in his grasp, so he wisely remained silent.

Madame Maxime, from whom Karkaroff had expected support, did not say a word for him either. She understood Amosta's proposal perfectly: it was punishment for Karkaroff's interference with Hogwarts's young champion. This was no longer simply about choosing