"The phoenix is truly a magnificent magical creature, and its abilities extend far beyond mere transportation. For instance, its tears possess incredibly potent healing properties…" Professor Dumbledore was clearly eager to delve into the wonders of Fawkes with Allen, but their discussion was abruptly curtailed by the arrival of Madam Pomfrey, who hurried out of the hospital wing at the sound of the sudden disturbance.
"Oh, Harry! What mischief has this young man managed to find himself in this time, Headmaster?" As expected of Madam Pomfrey, the veritable Nightingale of the wizarding world, who treated her patients with fierce maternal care. Her gaze immediately bypassed Dumbledore and fixed on the unconscious Harry, who was still being cradled in the Headmaster's arms.
Judging by her nightgown, Madam Pomfrey had been deep in sleep. Allen's mind, ever analytical, raced: Was there some form of alerting charm installed in the Hospital Wing? What kind of magic could possibly serve as a seamless, silent warning system? Before he could formulate a theory, he saw Professor Dumbledore's eyes subtly beckoning him to respond to the Healer's question.
"He was likely subjected to the effects of residual Dark Magic, Madam Pomfrey," Allen explained concisely under the Headmaster's watchful eye.
Madam Pomfrey instructed Allen to carefully place Harry on a bed in the inner private ward. She then conducted a quick but thorough examination. After a tense moment, she let out a deep sigh, her tired expression softening with relief.
"I can treat him. It will be slightly uncomfortable for him, but he will be perfectly fine. Headmaster, Mr. Allen Harris, if you have nothing further to contribute, please leave. The boy requires absolute quiet rest; he should regain consciousness in a few days." Madam Pomfrey, confident in her prognosis, shooed Professor Dumbledore and Allen away with an air of professional authority.
Allen fully intended to say his goodbyes to the Headmaster immediately upon leaving the Hospital Wing, but before he could speak, Professor Dumbledore smoothly preempted his departure.
"Allen, my boy! I am quite certain you require a delicious, relaxing meal after such an exciting evening. And my office is stocked with numerous delicacies that even the school elves are not privy to!" The smiling, white-bearded Professor was nearly impossible to refuse, not because of the promised food, but purely because he was the Headmaster.
What could Allen possibly say? He could only nod obligingly. Well, finding some food would certainly be nice; it is terribly late, and I am genuinely hungry, Allen consoled himself inwardly.
As if he were reading Allen's mind—a thought that made Allen instantly tighten his mental shields—Professor Dumbledore said gently: "A little late-night refreshment helps relax our nerves, soothe our empty stomachs, and promotes better sleep."
Allen responded with polite agreement. "Thank you for your generous hospitality, Headmaster."
"What a kind and charming boy you are. The assistance you offered poor Mr. Filch during his time of need confirmed my belief in your inherent goodness. Allen, I have been observing you for some time. Your academic achievements are outstanding, the professors hold you in high regard, and your peers look up to you with great respect. I once had a student who achieved similar success, who was similarly beloved by all, but alas..." Professor Dumbledore trailed off, shaking his head with an air of genuine regret.
Allen's heart skipped a beat. He knew exactly which successful, yet fallen, former student Dumbledore was mourning, but he dared not speak the name. He could only feign curiosity and inquire, "Professor, who was that person?"
"Ah, he was as brilliant and promising as you, my boy. Unfortunately, he ultimately chose a path that led him astray. Though, if one disregards the distinction between good and evil, he certainly achieved feats beyond the reach of ordinary men." Professor Dumbledore seemed lost in a distant, painful memory.
Allen gave him space, following quietly behind. Fortunately, the distance was short; the Hospital Wing was on the second floor, and the Headmaster's office was only one floor above. Soon, they reached the office entrance together.
"Butterbeer." A giant, ugly stone gargoyle guarded the entrance. After Professor Dumbledore spoke the correct password, the gargoyle sprang aside, revealing the hidden entrance. Allen followed Professor Dumbledore onto the automatically rotating stone staircase, which whisked the pair up to the office door.
It was a gleaming oak door, adorned with a brass knocker shaped like a magnificent griffin. Dumbledore pushed it open and stepped inside, with Allen close behind.
Professor Dumbledore led Allen to an enormous desk supported by legs carved to resemble the talons of a giant beast. The desk was cluttered with various silver instruments of unknown form and purpose, and the dusty, worn Sorting Hat sat innocently on a shelf to one side.
"Allen, please take a seat. Let us begin with some honey lemonade. I find the sweetness quite delightful," he said, offering Allen another conspiratorial wink. Allen repeated his silent thought, yet outwardly offered an obedient smile and nod.
While Professor Dumbledore busied himself preparing the refreshments, Allen quietly observed the office. It was a large, beautiful, circular chamber, its stone walls covered with portraits of former Headmasters and Headmistresses.
Since it was late, most of the painted occupants were softly snoring in their respective frames. Allen did notice several portraits whose eyes had opened wide, staring down at him with intense curiosity, undoubtedly wondering why a student had been summoned to the Headmaster's office at such an ungodly hour.
Perched on a stand behind the door was Professor Dumbledore's pet phoenix, Fawkes. Noticing Allen's gaze, Fawkes turned his large, intelligent eyes toward him, giving a subtle flutter of his magnificent tail feathers. Allen felt profoundly that everything the Phoenix did was graceful and exquisite.
Soon, the honey lemonade Professor Dumbledore had promised was placed on the table before Allen, accompanied by a plate of tempting, colourful sweets, several plump fruits, and a small stack of the very butterbeer-flavored cakes specified in the password.
"Please, my boy. You must be ravenous!" Professor Dumbledore handed Allen a large glass of the honey lemonade. Allen nodded politely and took a sip; it was sweet, slightly tart, and wonderfully cool—perfect for a summer night.
"Professor, I understand that in some ways, my achievements may mirror others. But I am unique in this world. I truly believe that even if I share certain qualities, I will ultimately chart my own, more extraordinary course," Allen said, carefully weighing his words before gently articulating his resolve.
"Yes, my child. You are you, not a mere imitation of anyone else. While your remarkable gifts are undeniable, you possess a joyful nature, come from a loving home, and exhibit genuine humility. These qualities set you distinctly apart from him," Professor Dumbledore replied, his tone both a reassuring affirmation to Allen and a private, wistful reflection.
"Allen, would you be willing to recount the events of tonight?" Professor Dumbledore asked, his smile returning, though his eyes remained deeply serious.
"Of course, Headmaster." Allen felt there was no point in withholding anything. He provided a clear, concise account of how Harry had first suspected the involvement of the dragon-seller, how they had navigated the initial protective traps, and the precise actions and roles played by Hermione and Ron.
He briefly explained how he and Harry had navigated the troll and the final fire barrier, giving a general overview of the final chamber and the confrontation he had silently witnessed.
"Courage and wisdom are perfectly aligned in you, Allen. You truly embody the spirit of a Ravenclaw. Though, I must confess, the Sorting Hat would likely have been justified in placing you in Gryffindor as well." Professor Dumbledore looked faintly regretful at the thought of the lost opportunity.
"Now, my boy, is there anything you would like to ask me?" Professor Dumbledore offered Allen the opportunity to finally ask his questions.