The Cancelled Holiday

At first, Elizabeth had not known Potter or Black very well. After reading Pandora's novel, she had even considered getting to know them.

It was only after actually meeting and understanding them that she realized the true value of the disclaimer on the novel's first page: this book was entirely fictional.

It really was pure fiction. Even their personalities had undergone considerable artistic refinement—discarding the dross and inventing the essence—creating a brutal contrast between the polished versions in the novel and the flawed versions in real life.

By now, apart from occasionally picturing those two fairly decent faces, Elizabeth could neatly separate the characters in the novel from the people in reality.

"Artistic refinement still needs reality for inspiration. Come to think of it, you could try writing something yourself. Aren't the plots you come up with sometimes quite wonderful too?"

Laughing and chatting, the two left their dormitory for the Great Hall. This was supposed to be their final dinner of the year at Hogwarts.

...Or at least, it had been.

When Dumbledore solemnly announced that the holiday had been cancelled, the entire Great Hall erupted into noisy discussion.

Manus's side was no exception. Even Bellows could not help starting to rise from his seat.

What did he mean, the holiday of more than two weeks had been cancelled?!

What student could withstand such a shock?

"Quiet!"

Dumbledore cast Sonorus on his throat, his amplified voice temporarily suppressing the students' soaring discontent.

"I know that you may find this difficult to accept. This decision was equally difficult for us to make. Before I explain it in detail, however, there is another tragic matter I must announce..."

Dumbledore's tone grew increasingly grave.

"Just two days ago, Professor Staky was found brutally murdered in her home. The Dark Mark was left