As soon as I dip my head into the liquid, I am unexpectedly drawn into her.

A few seconds later I land on all fours in a huge meadow.

I cautiously feel my way forward.
Isn't that.. Dad?
why is he sitting in the dark?
Alone.

While sneaking towards him as quietly as possible, I noticed that the stars were shining particularly brightly that night.

The black lake, on the other hand, ripples quietly.

"Dad. "I whisper his name softly and walk towards him.

I know it's just a memory but it feels so real.
His black eyes look thoughtfully into the distance.

They reflect the same pain as two hours ago in the great hall.
some of his tears find their way out and drip onto the floor.
This sight is like a knife stabbed in my heart. I hate it when he suffers like that.
My tears roll down my cheeks too.

"My child!" he whispers and looks at me.
How does he know I'm here? it's just a memory.
A small smile forms on his lips.

,, Mouse, listen to me carefully! These memories I'm about to show you are for your eyes only! someone else would get a curse because I specially prepared them that way. ", he explains to me without wasting any more time.

He is silent.

Scene change

I find myself back in the great hall, but the sight makes my blood run cold. in front of the teacher's table is none other than Albus Dumbledore himself.
As always, his long white hair is hidden under his blue starry hat. He majestically raises his left hand in the air to get the students' attention. Suddenly it's quiet. Professor Dumbledore gives my dad a long look before beginning his usual speech.

What did that mean?

,, Welcome to
Hogwarts! And to you old hands, welcome back!", he greets his students enthusiastically and lets his eyes wander around. I hear some laughing around me.

,,So. Now, dear first graders, to your house distribution. Professor McGonagoll, it's your turn!" he prompts my Head of House gently, setting a chair for her in the middle.

I look around curiously. my eyes catch on someone in surprise.
Among the first graders I see my younger self.
Moment. That was my first year.
Why is he showing me this?

At that moment I feel a hand on my right shoulder.

I slowly turn my head to the side, but I can't see anyone. Oh, I'm just imagining it. Immediately, I shake off this strange feeling. When I want to look ahead again, a cold wind blows past me. I'm surprised to find that all the windows are closed.

What's going on here?

With wide eyes, I have to watch as fear drains my body. Then my heart beats unnaturally fast.
,, Sh sh. No fear! it's me. ", I hear a silent whisper in my ear. A pleasant shiver runs down my spine.
This voice.
Isn't that...?
dad

After that I close my eyes.

I'm ready.