After finishing his account of Italy, Sirius changed the subject, a sly smile appearing on his face.
"Then I went straight on to Egypt. This time, in my official capacity as director of the Hogwarts Academic Affairs Office."
He focused on how he had used that official position to meet with representatives of Uagadou School of Magic and, in the name of promoting friendship between the two schools, successfully reached an agreement to cooperate that held tremendous long-term strategic significance.
"Hogwarts and Uagadou will jointly host the inaugural Horus Cup Magical Academic and Competitive Exchange."
"We've secured both the money and the future influence." Though Sirius's eyes were full of exhaustion, nothing could hide the excitement shining in them.
Douglas listened quietly to the end and nodded in satisfaction.
"Very good."
He rose and stood beside Sirius at the window, looking out at the grounds, which appeared particularly peaceful in the morning light.
"Then it's time to make all of Hogwarts proud of our new territory."
The two exchanged a smile.
At that moment, they were no longer merely a Hogwarts professor and director.
They were two ambitious chess players, preparing to draw the entire world onto their board.
Together, they began drafting an official news announcement that would cause a sensation throughout the school, and even the entire British wizarding world.
At lunchtime that day, just as the students were still mulling over the vast system of Five Elements theory that had overturned their understanding while leaving them utterly bewildered, something unexpected happened.
An enormous golden parchment scroll had been posted on the Great Hall's notice board.
Soft golden flames burned along its edges, and the words upon it flowed slowly as though alive, radiating authority.
A solemn, clear voice, perfectly imitating the standard delivery of the "Wizarding World