The atmosphere in the War Room was tense as Rufus Scrimgeour, Severus Snape, and Minerva McGonagall gathered with the other staff and Aurors to discuss the latest developments. Harry’s information about the voices and the Basilisk had been a significant breakthrough, but now the focus shifted to identifying the person responsible for opening the Chamber of Secrets.
Rufus paced slowly in front of the gathered group, his mind racing through the possible scenarios. He had already pieced together that Ginny Weasley was behind the attacks, but revealing this now would be premature and potentially disruptive. Instead, he needed to steer the investigation in a way that would lead them to the truth without exposing his own knowledge.
“As we continue our investigation,” Rufus began, his voice steady and authoritative, “it’s clear that the person who opened the Chamber of Secrets must be a student. Based on the evidence and Harry’s observations, it’s unlikely that a staff member would be involved, particularly since all of us were present and accounted for during the first attack.”
A murmur of agreement and concern rippled through the room. Snape, leaning against the wall with his usual air of aloofness, raised an eyebrow. “If the culprit is indeed a student, we should focus on those who were not accounted for during the attacks. It’s possible they could be involved.”
Minerva McGonagall, standing with her arms crossed, looked unconvinced. “I refuse to believe that any of my students would be capable of such an act. They are under a great deal of stress, but I cannot imagine any of them resorting to violence.”
Rufus nodded thoughtfully. “I understand your concern, Minerva. However, we must consider all possibilities. Given the seriousness of the situation, it’s crucial that we explore every lead.”
Turning to McGonagall, Rufus said, “I would like your cooperation in this matter. Could you please assemble all the students in the Great Hall? We need to account for their whereabouts and ensure that none are missing.”
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McGonagall nodded reluctantly. “Very well. I will see to it immediately.”
As Minerva left to gather the students, Snape leaned in, his voice laced with sarcasm. “I wouldn’t say that. Those idiotic Gryffindors are capable of any stupid thing.”
McGonagall shot him a withering glare. “Severus, I’d appreciate it if you would refrain from making such remarks at this time.”
Snape’s expression remained unchanged. “I merely speak the truth.”
Minerva muttered something under her breath as she exited the room, her frustration evident. Rufus watched her go, knowing that this process would likely be uncomfortable for everyone involved, but it was necessary to get to the bottom of the mystery.
Once McGonagall had left to assemble the students, Rufus turned to the rest of the group. “While Minerva is organizing the students, let’s review the evidence we have so far and consider our next steps. It’s essential that we approach this with caution and precision.”
The other staff and Aurors nodded in agreement, and discussions began anew as they reviewed the facts and potential leads. Rufus kept his focus on the task at hand, knowing that the key to solving the mystery lay in carefully analyzing the students’ alibis and behavioral patterns.
As they prepared for the assembly in the Great Hall, Rufus couldn’t help but feel a sense of urgency. The longer the Chamber of Secrets remained open, the more danger the students were in. He needed to ensure that the investigation proceeded swiftly and that the true culprit was identified before any further harm could be done.
In the Great Hall, the students began to gather, their faces a mix of confusion and apprehension. Rufus watched from the sidelines as McGonagall and the other staff worked to account for each student. He knew that the moment of truth was approaching, and with each passing minute, the tension in the castle grew thicker.