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She sat alone in her compartment for the entire journey to Hogwarts, relishing the solitude. It gave her the chance to read a few pages of her book, although the constant movement of the train made her feel a little sick at times.
Now, Josie finds herself seated at the Ravenclaw table, her back turned toward her table as she observes the first years being sorted. Mentally, she places bets on each one, trying to see if she can guess correctly. It's a little game she plays, and she often finds herself quite accurate.
A sudden touch on her arm makes her jump and quickly turn to face the source.
"Cas, you scared me," Josie breathes out, her hand resting on her chest to calm her racing heart.
Dorcas simply winks in response.
"Why are you sitting with me? Shouldn't you be sitting with Pandora?" Josie inquires, her curiosity piqued. Dorcas usually sat with Pandora on the other side of the table.
"I wanted to talk to you," Dorcas shrugs, offering no further explanation.
Josie's eyes narrow slightly, but she decides not to press the matter. She knows that if she brings up her doubts or insecurities, Dorcas will transform into a protective best friend and launch into a lecture. Sometimes it's better to keep things to herself.
The Sorting Hat announces the final student's placement, proclaiming, "HUFFLEPUFF!"
The table claps politely, and then the room falls into silence as Dumbledore ascends the podium to deliver his speech.
Clearing his throat lightly, Dumbledore begins, commanding the attention of the students, esteemed professors, and members of the magical community gathered.
"Today, I stand before you as Albus Dumbledore, your Headmaster—a humble servant of knowledge and an advocate for unity," he begins, his voice carrying a sense of wisdom and authority. "The year is 1976, a pivotal time in our history, filled with uncertainties, challenges, and choices that will shape the future. It is during such moments that the strength of our character, the power of our choices, and the unity of our purpose become paramount."
"As we navigate the ever-changing tides of the wizarding world, let us remember the core values that have guided us for centuries—wisdom, compassion, and courage," Dumbledore continues, his words resonating with the audience. "These virtues, if embraced, will serve as our compass in times of darkness and our beacon of hope in times of despair."
He smiles warmly, his half-moon glasses perched slightly higher on his nose.
"I would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest students as well as welcome back those who have graced Hogwarts before," Dumbledore addresses the crowd.
His piercing blue eyes briefly meet hers, and she quickly averts her gaze. Dumbledore always has an air of mystery about him that makes her uneasy. She never fully trusts him to keep everyone safe. It seems like he knows something she doesn't, and she despises being on the receiving end of such knowing looks. Josie acknowledges that Dumbledore undoubtedly possesses more knowledge than her, but she dislikes the feeling of being scrutinized.
