The Overture to Destruction 4

In this era, many people followed Voldemort.

But quite a few also worshipped Dumbledore.

He was the wizarding world's idol.

When Cedric Jorkins approached with his head lowered and his mind heavy with worry, he initially failed to notice the person by the roadside. It was not until he was nearly about to pass the tall figure by.

That he instinctively glanced up.

That single glance made him freeze on the spot.

"P-Professor Dumbledore?!"

Jorkins's voice rose in shock, trembling with disbelief.

His eyes widened as he stared fixedly at that face—a face that had appeared countless times on Chocolate Frog cards and was even more deeply imprinted in his memories of his student days. "Oh, g-good evening, Headmaster Dumbledore. I... I just wanted some air. Today... something happened." Instinctively, he did not want to mention the details.

Yet he also seemed to yearn to confide in someone.

Dumbledore seemed to snap out of his thoughts only then. He turned, his gaze falling upon Jorkins's face. A trace of perfectly timed contemplation first appeared, then shifted into gentle recognition and concern.

Even after all these years, even though the other man had become an influential figure in the wizarding world, that distinctive authority and wise bearing belonging to a Hogwarts Transfiguration professor.

Remained as clear as ever.

"Mr. Jorkins, Ravenclaw, class of 1970?" Dumbledore's voice was as steady and gentle as ever, carrying a reassuring strength. "To be honest, I didn't expect to run into you here. Out here alone so late? You look... rather unwell." He pretended to know nothing.

Once his identity was confirmed, Jorkins's heart beat even faster. This was not merely a chance encounter with a respected teacher—it came just after he had experienced something so terrifying, involving Death Eaters and a mysterious powerful wizard! His