Beyond the door lay an incomparably grand atrium, its dome so high it seemed to reach the clouds. Flowing, nebula-like magical lights shimmered across the ceiling, illuminating the entire space as brightly as day.
At the center of the atrium stood a massive statue—
An immensely tall oak tree, with a Thunderbird above its canopy, wings spread and gaze sharp.
Descending from the top, a Horned Serpent coiled around the branches, while a Wampus sprawled upon them, resting.
Upon the gnarled roots stood an ugly but smiling goblin, cradling fertile soil in both hands.
Countless golden words raced across the surrounding walls—continually updated magical statutes, security alerts, and international news briefs. Sometimes, they even formed enormous portraits of high-ranking Magical Congress officials.
Two officials in dark blue uniforms trimmed with silver were speaking in low voices beside the statue, their expressions as hard and rigid as granite.
But the instant Elsie entered, both men changed their expressions. Their eyes curved and their lips lifted into smiles. As if by prior agreement, they hurried toward the girl.
"Miss Vanderbilt!"
One of them, an official with impeccably combed hair and a badge reading "Security Coordinator," spoke first, his voice brimming with precisely measured enthusiasm:
"It's been a long time! Would you like me to notify the Chairman's office for you?"
Elsie nodded with a smile, then said, "No need. I didn't make an appointment before coming this time. I merely heard that Congress had caught an interesting prisoner and came to see the excitement."
"Oh, you mean that Scourer?" The official smiled knowingly. "I heard he was even an outstanding student at Ilvermorny. Truly unexpected."
Everything about him radiated barely concealed glee, and—quite obviously—he assumed Elsie had come to enjoy the spectacle as well.
The other official appeared more serious. He gave