Compared with the fragmented version of the past Wizet had pieced together from Aberforth Dumbledore, Dumbledore's account was clearly more coherent, filled with deeper self-reproach and irreparable regret.
He did not excuse his youth or ambition. He merely recounted how power and ideals had blinded him, how he had neglected his family responsibilities, and the share of guilt he bore for that conflict.
To some extent, Dumbledore and Aberforth Dumbledore displayed remarkably similar expressions when recounting the past, both burdened by self-reproach and irreparable regret.
Under normal circumstances, Aberforth Dumbledore would recount the past in fits and starts while drinking strong liquor.
After downing a glass, he would angrily curse Gellert Grindelwald a few times.
But Dumbledore, at this moment, had only endless sorrow. His body was slightly hunched, as though he were drinking from a bottomless cup of Despair Potion.
After finishing that part of the story, he let out a long sigh. Beyond sorrow, his bright blue eyes now held an unprecedented clarity and resolve.
His tone was equally resolute. "Wizet, I need you to do me a favor!"
Wizet met Dumbledore's gaze without the slightest hesitation. "No problem!"
Dumbledore exhaled again, as if trying to expel the last traces of luck and illusion. "In truth, both you and I know that everything here..."
"Including her!" He turned to look at Ariana's figure. "Could all be a trap set by 'My Lord.' We must remain wary of that!"
"When I was searching for Horcruxes, my obsession nearly led me to make an irreparable mistake, and nearly hurt you as well."
He unconsciously clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white. "I know what my weakness is. Standing here, looking at her... I truly cannot guarantee that I am completely clear-headed."
"I have made far too many mistakes in