After Albus spread the unfortunate news concerning Marcus to the professors an underlying atmosphere of worry filled the castle.
I could tell Albus was worried that something or someone in the castle was the catalyst for Marcus's disappearance.
I had several options in front of me. One option was to blend into the background of this investigation acting as if I was concentrating on locating the poor boy.
The next option would be to take an active role and regularly check into the investigation whilst acting like I'm trying my hardest to find out what happened. This would be the worst option, putting myself into the DMLE spotlight would be foolish.
Taking everything into account I think the third option is best, this option is the greater of the two previous options.
I will fade into the background for a couple of days, even express to Albus and the other professors that I need to cancel my classes to prepare for my divination.
Then I will meet with Albus after the divination gives me the 'heartbreaking' news of Marcus's passing.
The next part will be tricky, the soul contract I formed with Albus clearly states any information I provide to him regarding the upcoming dark lord and war must be the truth. But, what the contract doesn't include is if he infers facts from something I say.
This wouldn't count as me going around the deal as I won't be lying to him, it is not my fault if he hypothesized something from what I tell him.
Deciding my plan I stood from the desk I had situated in my room and left heading toward Albus's office. Tonight the professors are meeting to discuss the incident.
As I headed to his office I passed a couple of Prefects doing their usual rounds. Finally, I reached Albus's office, funnily enough, I think this was one of the few times I actually had to walk up here usually he sends Fawkes to fetch me.
Entering the office I saw I was the last Professor to arrive, I didn't even mean to be the last one this time.
"Morpheus, thank you for joining us," Albus said in a grand-fatherly tone
I half smiled, "I apologize for my tardiness I was focused on preparing for the divination I will perform to help locate Marcus and lost track of time,"
"You weren't late by much my friend, we shall visit your preparations soon as first I would like to address everyone," Albus said while waving off my apology
I greeted the few Professors who greeted me and then waited for Albus to begin the meeting.
"Before Winter break we had an instance of an unknown cure being used on a student, luckily the student Stiles Marr seemed to recover the next morning. Now we have news of a student behaving out of character and then disappearing soon after," Albus's tone was heavy
"I was negligent, we as educators and keepers of young students must ensure every threat to student life has been carefully investigated. It's too late now to investigate the unknown curse but, it is not too late to investigate Marcus's disappearance. If you can provide any help please do so, remember do not tell the students we wouldn't want to panic them," I was surprised at how well he maneuvered through his speech
"Starting now, I implore every teacher to pay closer attention to your students. As we have learned Marcus seemed to be isolated, alone, and friendless. It saddens me he experienced that in Hogwarts. Let us make an effort to not only educate and teach the wonders of magic but to help the children build bonds of friendship," Albus said
"If you have anything to add, please do so now," Albus said gesturing toward us
"I agree, I will make sure to talk to any of my lions I notice are having a tough time," Minerva said seriously
The other heads of houses parroted. I thought of something that could maybe aid us in this venture.
"Might I suggest the reopening of clubs? I understand there are already small student-run clubs but, if I understand the history books years ago Hogwarts had special clubs professors would team up on to create which facilitated friendships across houses," I addressed the room with a small smile
Albus seemed to reminisce, "Yes, when I attended Hogwarts there were clubs like you speak of. They were different than electives and had their own unique charm. Sadly, when old professors left the new ones never reinstated them, and then they disappeared as a whole. If some of you have free time, please consider this option,"
Filius nodded, "I might not be able to be a full-time member of the club as I have to balance my other activities but, I would love to step in when needed,"
The astrology Professor Abara stepped in, "I would love to create a club,"
"As would I," Professor Yowie who taught defense against the dark arts added
if I remember correctly he is a retired Auror.
"My colleagues, it sounds like we have a great lineup of Professors that can teach dueling. Abara, this would be a splendid opportunity to show a different side of astrology, Filius can step in on occasion as a former dueling champion," I said with a gentle smile
"Brilliant, My friend!" Abara said with a wide smile
"I'm concerned over the danger," Pomfrey said
"Nonsense, we can ease the students into it. There are many ways we can safely do this at the most you would need to heal some bruises or a headache," Yowie said agreeing with my idea
We then looked toward Albus for his opinion.
"Write a paper on how you plan to hold the meetings and I will review it," Albus said with a small smile
Seeing as no one was going to add anything I said, "Professors, Headmaster," my rare formal approach visibly threw everyone off
I had to hide my smile. Adding a formal tone would make my next words seem very important.
"I have a favor to ask, I'm preparing for a rather complicated divination to hopefully find Marcus's location. Since it is a very complicated method I will have to take a few days off. At most three, during that time I won't be able to teach," My tone was heavy as if I was deeply worried over Marcus's disappearance
Before I could finish my planned speech Albus cut in, "Professor Morpheus, if you think this will help the search I will cancel your classes for the required time. Finding Marcus is something we all want,"
Albus my friend thank you for interrupting.
Not needing to say my speech I turned to him and said, "Headmaster, I believe you wouldn't need to cancel my classes. In fact, what my students are working on right now is something you could be a great help in. If you have the time you could step in?" I suggested
"Oh do tell, Professors you may leave I'm sure you don't want to listen to this," Albus said with a gentle smile to the other professors
The other professors left while promising to create a plan for the dueling club soon.
When they left I told Albus about the current class plan, he seemed interested in my method of magic control.
"Interesting I never thought training wands could be used in such a way. I think I will take the time to step in for your class" Albus agreed
"Excellent, I will continue to prepare. I'll let you know the good news soon Albus," I smiled and left
At the corner of my eye, I saw him smile wryly at my switch back to informal. It was simply too weird for me to address people with all of these titles, especially when I'm much older than them.
-end-
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