At Number 12, Grimmauld Place, Sirius Black, who had just been on night patrol, realized something was terribly wrong the moment he received the warning from Phineas.
Even if the Dark Mark appeared above the Astronomy Tower, even if Death Eaters had truly infiltrated Hogwarts, it meant nothing in the presence of Dumbledore, who had already returned to the Castle. He could handle most situations on his own.
Yet, the Headmaster had still instructed Phineas to alert members of the Order of the Phoenix to reinforce Hogwarts. This meant Hogwarts might be facing genuine trouble, which was why extra hands were needed.
Chapter 1176