Harry at the Funeral
Leaving the other funeral guests, Harry, feeling numb, paced around the lake. He couldn't comprehend never speaking to his Headmaster ever again. He would never again see Dumbledore sitting in his chair during a feast or catch a glimpse of him during a Quidditch game. He felt hollow and cold. He climbed up a rocky embankment and sat down, the lake spread out in front of him, glittering in the sunlight. Suddenly he felt the prickling sensation of someone watching him. He looked behind him and squinted into the shadow cast by a massive rock. As he looked, something metallic caught his eye. A small object was lying on the ground. It looked like a cigarette lighter, except a little bit longer, and as he kept looking he realised with a jolt that someone was holding it. As his eyes got used to the shadow, they focused on something long and silver that seemed to glow. It moved as he heard the voice. "Harry! Quickly come over here. It is imperative that no-one sees you!". Harry jumped up and hurried over into the shadows. Albus Dumbledore was sitting with his back against a boulder, papers and books spread around him. He smiled grimly up at Harry, and patted the matted grass next to him. Harry sank weakly down next to him, his heart pounding. "Professor... What..?" "Not now Harry. We must be quick! I must apologise for putting you through the ordeal of my presumed death. I had to make sure Voldemort believed your grief, or else my plan could not be successful. I am now free to search for horcruxes, and I ask you to accompany me along the way. I need your help". "Yes Professor, of course!" Harry said immediately. Dumbledore looked at him, smiling broadly, "Excellent! I knew I could count on you Harry! Now let's get planning!".