After leaving the Magical Menagerie, the group made their way back to the Leaky Cauldron.
When they entered the pub, Silan saw Arthur Weasley sitting by the bar, reading the Daily Prophet.
Noticing them come in, Arthur looked up and greeted them.
"Kids, how are you?"
"Pretty good."
Ron covered Scabbers and edged a little farther away from Crookshanks. "But Scabbers isn't doing too well..."
"He is rather too old."
Arthur put down the newspaper, and everyone saw Sirius Black's photograph on the front page.
Harry's gaze was unconsciously drawn to the picture. "They still haven't caught him?"
"No." Arthur's expression was extremely grave. "The Ministry has pulled us all from our regular posts to focus entirely on capturing him. But so far, there's been no progress at all."
"Kids, you need to be careful when you go out lately."
As they spoke, Molly squeezed through the pub entrance carrying armfuls of bags, followed by a large crowd of children.
"Oh, Silan, my dear boy!" Molly set her things on the table and hurried over to seize Silan's hand. "It's so wonderful to see you! Did you receive those gifts?"
"I did. Thank you very much," Silan said.
"That's good, that's good." Molly beamed. "Oh, right, there's another piece of good news I forgot to tell you."
Molly turned and pointed at the brand-new silver badge on Percy Weasley's chest. "Our family has produced its second Head Boy!"
Those words drew everyone's attention.
Percy proudly puffed out his chest, clearly enjoying being the center of attention.
"I'm sure you'll be the third, Silan." Molly's pride was unmistakable as she spoke. "I heard from the professors that your grades are excellent. And at such a young age, you've already received the Special Contribution to the School Award."
"This is a new