Blurred War

After returning from his visit with Ministry officials, Dippet wore a solemn expression when he re-entered the Great Hall and asked the professors and staff to follow him. He asked the prefects to keep watch over the rest of the students while the professors were away. He would take them all to a nearby classroom and wait until they were all present before addressing them.

He informed them of his meeting and that, regrettably, they were recommending that the school be shut down until a culprit could be identified. He would ask the professors and staff's opinions on the matter, saying that he would like to do whatever possible to keep the school open. And, in the meantime, what were they to do with the children? He also asked if the investigation following Miss Glumwiddle's discovery had given them any new information.

Also present at the meeting was a large bowl of sweets and the remnants of Dippet's stash of firewhiskey. It was obvious that he'd already had a bit himself.

On an unusually sunny and warm day, the start of the air raid siren at 3 pm sharp would likely catch a number of students unaware. While there were no real bombs this afternoon, Professor Viridian would supply simulated explosions outdoors -- enough to send anyone taking a walk by the lake or practicing their Quidditch next to the school inside.

As discussed, there were no changes to the House designations during the drill -- Slytherin and Gryffindors were to report to Slytherin and Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaw to Hufflepuff. Due to the recent attacks, there was a noteworthy added staff presence in the Common Rooms. Once in their designated locations, students are to report to their assigned prefects or their stand-ins to take roll.

The only students not required to participate were those in the hospital wing. In spite of having done this several times already, a handful of younger Ravenclaws are missing, presumably lost on their way to the Hufflepuff Common Room. A first year Hufflepuff boy goes from student to student, clinging to shirts, skirts, arms, legs, etc. A third year Gryffindor girl starts crying when she has to use the bathroom and cannot find anyone to go with her. A Slytherin fourth year spreads a rumour that she saw one of the Gryffindors trying to attack her friend in spite of the additional professors present.

Students will be allowed to leave the Common Rooms at 5.30 for dinner.