Upon return to his office, he found Fred and George standing at his desk, their faces pale and stricken. They exchanged a glance, knowing the gravity of what they had done. Before Albus could speak, George blurted out, "Is he okay?" Albus turned to them, his eyes lacking their usual twinkle. He regarded them for a moment with a mixture of sadness and anger. "What were you thinking?" he asked, his voice heavy. "Your prank could have killed Professor Snape. He is alive, but he has a long road to recovery. He is burned terribly over the top of his body, and he has a severe concussion and a broken wrist. You caused this."
"We never meant for anyone to get hurt; we never thought he would fall. We are really so sorry," Fred said, his voice trembling. "It was supposed to be harmless, just for the laughs. "Harmless?" Albus echoed, his voice rising slightly. "Professor Snape is in the hospital wing with serious injuries. Your actions have consequences, boys. Severe consequences." The twins hung their heads. "We're really sorry, Professor," George said quietly. Albus sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "You will be suspended from Hogwarts for four weeks," he said finally. "Upon your return, you will serve detention twice a week with a professor of Professor Snape's choosing until he decides you have learned your lesson. And you will personally apologise to Professor Snape when he's feeling better." The twins nodded, their hearts heavy with regret. "Yes, Professor," they said in unison. "Go to bed, both of you." The twins nodded and turned away to their beds, riddled with guilt, and Albus returned to the hospital wing to look after his dear friend.