Silence From the Castle Finally Ends

21 June 1754

Perhaps we shall never know why the professors and students at Hogwarts School have refused contact with those outside the castle for the past school year, although speculation from parents and the Board of Governors abound. Mercurio Medfast, governor for four years and father of two Hogwarts students, commented for the Hogsmeade Harbinger, "It is of our opinion that Headmaster Blacio is hoping to make use of the affection we have for our families through this misguided and immature show of temper. My children would most certainly have returned for Christmas and Easter if under their own power. What he hopes to prove by exerting his authority is unknown."

Indeed, the Headmaster and his staff prove elusive for those seeking comment regarding the silence over the course of the term, which only seems to further the speculation that Dark Magic was performed upon the students in residence at the bequest of the Head. Head Boy and seventh year Slytherin Herald Escalante, class of 1753, agreed to speak to the Harbinger, although his untruths made any testimony implausible. Herald Escalante insisted that he was still the Head Boy, despite his supposed graduation a year ago. Ravenclaw Daniel Westbrooks, supposed sixth year, refused opportunity to comment, insisting he had OWLs for which to prepare, and Hufflepuff Amarantha de Talone, also class of 1753, would only say that they had been asked by the staff not to speak with journalists.

Lies? Refusal to speak? The Harbinger begs the indulgence of its readers in this story, as hard facts are impossible to find. What we know is that this is a mystery that may never be solved, especially with students sworn to secrecy and professors playing as willing pawns in Blacio's game.