Fawkes sat alone in the dimly lit office of the former professor Dumbledore. It was the first day back to school, and the halls were full of students. Fawkes, however, had a job to do. He knew that Harry, Ron, and Hermione would soon be coming to work on their search, and there were certain things that Dumbledore needed them to see when they got there.
First, he set out Dumbledore's old wand. He had recovered it before they had moved the body. This wand would be of great use to Harry Potter. If he ever came face to face with Lord Voldemort, which was sure to happen, he would need a wand that would work properly against him. Harry's own wand was the brother to Voldemort's. In battle, Harry's wand would be no good.
Secondly, he found an old letter which had been written to the Headmaster many years ago, when he first took office.
Dear Professor Dumbledore,
Congratulations on your new post, as Headmaster to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Before you start, there are a couple things which must be brought to your attention.
To change to office password, simply write it down on a slip of paper and set it in the mouth of the gargoyle guarding your office. As you watch, it will be burst into flames and will vanish. If the password is a valid one, the gargoyle will blink its left eye once, if not, it will blink twice.
The portraits of the former Headmaster and Headmistresses must be left in their places on the wall. At times, they will seem to be of extreme annoyance, but it is vital that they not be taken off the wall. They are part of an ancient spell, which has been set on Hogwarts to help avoid unwanted visitors.
Make sure this letter is passed on to the next Headmaster or Headmistress that follows you.
Enjoy your new position as Headmaster.
Sincerely,
Professor Dippet
After this, Fawkes set to work on his final task for the day, selecting which memories in the pensive that Harry, Ron, and Hermione should see. There was the one of Snape's return from the Dark Side many years ago, the one of Lily and James' move to Godric's Hollow, in order to escape from Voldemort, and the one in which Sybil, the Divination teacher, had recited another prophecy, this one speaking of where the horcruxes would be located.
Fawkes was satisfied with his work, and with one last glance at the room, he took flight out the office window.
