The Professors had decided to investigate the matter, but there were also concerns about the safety of the students. So the Headmaster, along with a few most senior Professors had decided to proceed to the forest, while the others stayed behind securing the castle, even though there had been no breach in the wards. But with so many students, one could never be too cautious. That's why the prefects had been given strict orders to not let anyone leave the Great Hall. Students were not even allowed to go back to their dormitories. Head students were instructed to conjure sleeping bags and blankets for anyone who asked, even though nobody could sleep because the air still felt like it was irradiated with something otherworldly.