The enthusiastic young wizards crowded around Vaughan, peppering him with questions until noon. Only when Professor McGonagall drove them away did they finally disperse reluctantly.
Vaughan breathed a sigh of relief. For the first time, he felt that Fred and George's big mouths were truly unbearable.
He hurried through lunch and was just about to slip off to Snape's office when Professor McGonagall called him over to the staff table and instructed him, "Mr. Weasley, I've just received notice from the Ministry of Magic. The joint investigation team will officially visit the school this afternoon, accompanied by a Daily Prophet reporter. You will need to give them an interview..."
McGonagall looked especially spirited today, positively radiant. Even her stern, gaunt face seemed kind and pleasant as the wrinkles softened with her cheerful mood.
She looked at Vaughan warmly, completely ignoring the serpent-and-shield badge on his chest. In her eyes at that moment, he was simply a good student who had brought honor to the school—regardless of House. "This afternoon, you will accompany Professor Dumbledore and me to the station to receive them. As a matter of courtesy, Mr. Weasley, please wear formal attire... Of course, if you don't have any, you may use the fireplace in my office to go to Diagon Alley and purchase some. The school will cover the expense."
Vaughan nodded. "I had formal clothes made before the school term began. I haven't worn them yet."
McGonagall smiled softly. "Very good, child. Go back and prepare, then!"
Just as Vaughan was about to leave, he noticed Snape sitting beside them with a cold face, lost in thought. He put on an "obedient" smile and asked McGonagall, "May I request that Professor Snape come along as well?"
The distracted Snape suddenly jolted. His lifeless black eyes flew wide