David sat slumped in the soft armchair across from Professor Dumbledore in the headmaster's office. A steaming cup of hot chocolate rested on the desk before him, half-drunk. The room was cozy but lively.
To David's left, a Phoenix sat on a perch, its molting feathers giving it a tired appearance. Yet, the majestic bird perked up the moment David entered, chirping softly until he offered it a piece of meat. On a nearby shelf, the Sorting Hat muttered indignantly, reprimanding David for not having visited since his sorting ceremony.
Across the desk, Professor Dumbledore sat quietly, his sharp blue eyes twinkling behind his half-moon spectacles.
"Professor?" David called, breaking the silence.
"Oh!" Dumbledore snapped out of his reverie, smiling warmly. "David, have you rested?"
David nodded. "I have. Now, can you finally explain what's going on?"
Dumbledore chuckled. "Of course. But where should I begin? Perhaps from the start."
Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, his expression turning serious. "When Voldemort was defeated, most people believed he was gone forever. But I knew better. Voldemort was not truly dead."
David frowned. "But, Professor, didn't the reports say he was completely destroyed? How could he survive?"
"His body was destroyed," Dumbledore explained, "but his soul endured. Professor Snape confirmed this for me. The Dark Mark—Voldemort's symbol on his followers' arms—never disappeared. It was proof that he wasn't gone."
"Why didn't others realize this?" David asked, surprised.
"Some suspected, but many refused to believe it," Dumbledore said, sighing. "The fear Voldemort left behind was too great. Denial was easier."
"Is that why you're preparing Harry?" David pressed. "Because of the prophecy?"
"Yes, but not just the prophecy," Dumbledore admitted. "There were other signs that Harry was destined for this role. But he's not ready yet. He has much to learn, and my job is to help him realize his potential."
David hesitated. "Is that why you set up those trials on the fourth floor? Were they for Harry?"
Dumbledore smiled mischievously. "Ah, so you've been exploring forbidden areas. Shall I deduct points from Gryffindor?"
David rolled his eyes. "If you deduct points for that, Gryffindor might end up with none."
Dumbledore laughed. "You're right, David. Those trials are meant to prepare Harry and his friends. They're tests, not obstacles for Voldemort. And I have safeguards in place to ensure Voldemort cannot take the Philosopher's Stone."
"But what if Harry fails?" David asked.
Dumbledore leaned forward, his eyes twinkling. "Then, my boy, I will step in. I may be old, but I am still the greatest wizard of our time."
David couldn't help but smile. "And what if Harry refuses to step up?"
Dumbledore studied David intently. "Then perhaps you, David, will have to help. But I believe Harry will rise to the challenge. Love is the greatest magic in the world, and he will fight to protect those he loves."
"Was that Voldemort in the Forbidden Forest today?" David asked, his tone cautious.
"Yes and no," Dumbledore replied. "It was his soul, tethered to another's body—a host."
"Professor Quirrell?" David guessed, recalling the strange man always wrapped in a scarf. "It's him, isn't it?"
Dumbledore nodded, looking impressed. "You're sharper than most. Yes, Quirrell is Voldemort's host. But Quirrell doesn't know that I'm aware of his secret."
David groaned. "You let him stay here, knowing that?"
"He's under my watch," Dumbledore reassured. "Quirrell cannot move freely, and I am always one step ahead. His arrogance and impatience will be his downfall."
"Professor," David asked, his voice steady, "what role do I play in all of this?"
Dumbledore looked at David with a rare seriousness. "At first, I hadn't planned for you to be involved. But your unique talents have changed my mind. You've proven today that you're capable of great things."
David frowned. "But I don't want to be involved."
Dumbledore smiled gently. "I understand. But sometimes, we don't get to choose. Voldemort's return will affect everyone, whether they want to fight or not."
David sighed, realizing the truth in Dumbledore's words. "Fine. But promise me you'll keep me safe."
"You have my word," Dumbledore said warmly. "Now, go get some rest. You've had a long day."
As David turned to leave, Dumbledore added, "Oh, and one more thing—don't share today's events with anyone. Harry must face his journey in his own time."
David nodded reluctantly. "I won't say anything."
"Good. And feel free to visit my office more often. Fawkes and the Sorting Hat seem quite fond of you."
David smiled faintly as he left, feeling a mix of exhaustion and unease. His life at Hogwarts was growing more complicated with each passing day. Yet, deep down, he felt a flicker of determination. If love was truly the greatest magic, then perhaps he had a fighting chance after all.