It was a message from Dumbledore.
A few minutes later, Will arrived at the Headmaster's Office.
Besides Dumbledore, the greasy-haired Potions professor was there too.
Will noticed that Snape looked rather displeased.
He did not ask any questions, however, and went straight to the seat prepared for him. Fawkes was resting with his eyes closed and, unusually, did not fly over to Will.
"What would you like to drink?" Dumbledore was pouring Snape a cup of black tea.
"The same as Professor Snape. Black tea will do, no sugar."
"I'm terribly sorry, Will." Dumbledore poured Will a cup as well, then shook his head. "I've been so busy lately, as you know."
"Oh, it's all right. I thought this would be Professor McGonagall's office by now." Will sat opposite Dumbledore and took a chocolate chip cookie from the tin in front of him.
"Minerva may have to stay in the Deputy Headmaster's Office a little longer." Dumbledore took another cookie from the tin and offered it to Snape. "But that isn't what we're here to discuss today."
Snape did not take it. "What exactly is this about?"
Unfazed by Snape's reaction, Dumbledore said, "Regarding what happened at the Ministry of Magic, neither of you received any advance word, did you?"
Will and Snape nodded—neither of them had heard a thing.
Will had thought Voldemort had given up on that prophecy orb this time. If Grindelwald had not tipped him off then, he would have been kept completely in the dark too.
"Perhaps Tom already suspects you." Dumbledore shook his head and popped the cookie into his own mouth.
Will and Snape exchanged a glance. Snape's expression was dark, while Will frowned in thought.
The atmosphere in the office grew tense.
"So, whatever happens over the next two months, both of