A Spring Rain

Inside the Headmaster's office.

The lazy Phoenix lay sprawled on the windowsill, its eyes narrowed to slits as it occasionally looked out over the grounds, then at the people talking in the room.

The portraits of past headmasters waited quietly in their frames, their hands folded before them. Some faced forward, while others turned their heads slightly. Every one of them wore a composed and kindly expression.

Steam curled from the tea in the exquisite porcelain cups, while the silver instruments on the desk puffed out vapor as well. The warm mist had a refreshing effect. Scrimgeour took several deep breaths, and his groggy mind, dulled by a sleepless night, cleared somewhat. Even the soreness in his body eased.

Dumbledore sat back in his chair behind half-moon spectacles. He was still wearing a pale blue silk dressing gown embroidered with stars and moons, its fabric hanging naturally in soft, smooth folds.

"You must give me an explanation, Albus!"

Scrimgeour raised his teacup and gulped down a mouthful, then let out a long breath. "Muggle universities and numerous geological institutes detected abnormal fluctuations. People in several nearby communities felt distinct tremors. At least several hundred people saw beams of light illuminating the sky. The Muggle Government even intends to establish a special investigation team. To contain the fallout, my staff were dragged out of bed in the middle of the night and still haven't had any rest."

"Keep calm, Rufus."

The old man leisurely added sugar to his tea, dropping in four or five cubes before finally picking up his spoon and stirring without haste. "Regarding what happened last night, I have good news and bad news. Which would you like to hear first?"

"Albus Dumbledore! I am in no mood to play some pointless choice game."

"Very well. I hope