Early the next morning.
Will was enjoying breakfast in the Great Hall. He had just set down his bowl of oatmeal when a flock of owls flew in.
Like couriers, they brought the students of Hogwarts whatever they needed.
One example was the large box in front of Will, which two owls had carried together. It came in a gift bag from Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, drawing more than a few curious looks—no one had expected Will to buy prank gadgets, too.
But when Will opened the box, everyone around him understood—it was full of books.
Will briefly looked through the pile.
There were all sorts of titles, including Alchemy: The Great Mystery, Radiance of the Sun, Alchemical Ritual Studies, and Alchemy: The Chapter of Healing.
The one that interested Will most was an ancient-looking leather volume, the Scroll of Balance.
A small note was stuck to it: Will, we think this book was made for you.
Satisfied, Will packed the books away, ready to take them back to the Room of Requirement in a moment. Just then, another owl circled above his head and dropped a letter beside his hand.
His expression shifted almost imperceptibly at the seal—it belonged to the Howard family.
Will put the letter away. "I'll take these back to my room. You go ahead to class. I'll see you there."
Sylvia nodded. "All right, darling."
Will smiled, drew his wand, and tapped the box of books. It floated into the air and followed him out...
In the Room of Requirement, Will sat on the sofa and opened the letter from the Howard family.
His expression grew slightly grave. The Howard family would not contact him like this unless something had happened. Normally, Hobert would simply write to him personally.
Will unfolded the letter, his face darkening