Rosmerta looked out over the scenic landscape towards the setting sun. It was still early, about four in the afternoon, but it was nearly midwinter. Yule would come soon, and with it a fresh round of customers. Truthfully, Rosmerta preferred company to money, but she had to earn her money somehow.

Then, much to her surprise, a small girl- or at least someone too young to have their license- Apparated right in front of the steps. Standing up, Rosmerta gave the girl the once-over. The light was fading, and all Rosmerta could be sure of was that the girl looked a bit perplexed.

"Excuse me, but do you know where I can find Albus Dumbledore?" Realizing that the child was speaking to her, Rosmerta collected her scattered wits.

"Up at Hogwarts, of course. But how do you know him?"

"Hogwarts?" the girl asked, the confusion evident in her tone.

"The castle, of course. It's only a short way up the path, but don't you think you should wait until tomorrow? It's late for a little one to be traveling up the path. And cold."

"I have to go," was all the girl said. She all but ran up the path towards the enchanted castle. Rosmerta wondered what it was she had been clutching in her hands, so tight, as if it was her only link to life.