For Umbridge, the next four hours were an endless nightmare.
The door to the Academic Affairs Office kept opening.
"Deputy Director, Mr. Filch has requested three crates of new restraining shackles. Here's the product brochure..."
"Put it there!"
"Deputy Director, Professor McGonagall's compensation list for wear and tear on the desks and chairs in the Transfiguration Classroom..."
"Put it down!"
"Deputy Director, Madam Hooch has requested an advance on the grounds maintenance funds, because the rain has caused damage to the turf that magic cannot repair..."
"Get out! Leave the form!"
As the sky gradually darkened, the magical lamps in the office lit up automatically, casting a pallid light over Umbridge's already bloodless face.
She felt as though her right wrist no longer belonged to her, and the excessive drain on her magic left her head splitting.
Yet the mountain of documents had not shrunk at all.
"How many more?"
She asked weakly, her voice on the verge of tears.
Victoria Green (the Slytherin assistant), who had returned at some point, glanced at the pocket watch in her hand.
"Four hundred and thirty-two remaining, ma'am. Considering that your signing speed has already dropped by forty percent, I suggest you pick up the pace. Otherwise, the house-elves will miss the last supply carriage from Hogsmeade."
"I can't go on... I need to rest..."
Umbridge slumped over the desk, her pink sweater now thoroughly rumpled.
"I need some tea... I want to see the Minister..."
"Unfortunately, the communication channels are currently occupied."
Victoria calmly shattered her hopes.
"What do you mean?"
Umbridge jerked her head up, her eyes unfocused.
"An hour ago, Director Black requisitioned all the owls in the Academic Affairs Office, saying he needed them to report the results of today's special disciplinary crackdown to the Board of Governors."
Victoria