Plagued Logs

The crowds gathered around in the grounds of Hogwarts in silent respect for the fallen. Families, friends, loved ones united in the soft sun of the autumn afternoon as McGonagall stood in front of the cemetery gates, the tip of her wand pressed against her throat to spread her voice amongst the crowds.

"We gather here today to remember those who gave their lives in the fight against darkness, so that we may continue to live in peace. It is our duty to make the most of the opportunity provided for us by the sacrifice of the ones we love.

Not a soul amongst them will be forgotten for as long as Hogwarts stands tall. Forever shall their monument remain a beacon of peace amongst all witches and wizards. I invite you to share a moment to remember the names of the fallen now..."

Slowly, clearly, her voice steady despite the tears that welled in her eyes, Minerva McGonagall read aloud the names of every soul who died at the battle, every young witch or wizard who was torn from their parents arms and unable to survive the tortures of Azkaban, every Auror who died in the pursuit of freedom from oppression, every man, woman, and child who lost their lives at the hands of darkness, and would never see the light of the world they had fought for.

As she neared the end of the list, a beautiful song began to rise from the centre of the graveyard. The golden phoenix statue began to glow, wisps of golden flame rising from its wings. The song of the phoenix echoed across the crowds, a song of lament and terrible beauty, one that had been heard once before across the grounds of Hogwarts.



"...and Albus Dumbledore."

Fawks burst forth from the statue in a blaze of golden sparks and took to the sky, feathers of bright ruby and amber. It seems his appearance was a surprise even for McGonagall, who paused and watched the phoenix streak across the sky and away, never to return.