"Hey, don't look so down, mate." Will walked over to Fred.
"Will, a wand isn't cheap." Neither Fred nor George looked happy.
George hooked an arm around Fred's neck. "Our savings can take the hit. Worst case, we put a little more effort into earning money this term."
Seeing how carefully they watched their money, Will couldn't help speaking up. "Fred, trust me, you'll get a new wand. It might not feel as good as your old one, but you definitely won't have to pay for it yourselves."
"Why do you say that?" Neither of them had caught on yet.
"Your wand broke while you were dealing with a man wanted by the Ministry of Magic. That alone means the school or the Ministry has to cover what's really a small expense," Will explained.
Their eyes lit up.
Then Will immediately poured cold water on their hopes. "But look at Lupin's reaction. There may be more to this. If Black isn't the real criminal and was wrongfully imprisoned, you might have a hard time getting that money."
The Twins exchanged a glance, as if discussing how to make sure the case against Black stuck.
It was a normal school day at Hogwarts, so there weren't many people wandering around the Castle. The group drew little attention.
Soon, they had all climbed the Tower.
A little over ten minutes later, Fawkes perched on Will's shoulder, preening his feathers as though he had no interest in the other humans who had entered the room.
A heavy, uneasy atmosphere hung over the Headmaster's Office. The fire crackled in the hearth.
Dumbledore sat behind his broad desk. His blue eyes, behind his Half-moon Spectacles, were sharp and calm as he slowly surveyed everyone in the room.
His gaze lingered especially on the gaunt,