Chapter 16: Across the Lake
The train screeched to a halt, the bustling energy of students filling the platform. Nero stepped onto the cobblestones of Hogsmeade Station, his senses alive with the crisp, cool air and the distant sound of water. Lanterns swayed in the breeze, casting flickering light across the crowd.
"Firs'-years! Firs'-years over here!"
A booming voice rose above the chatter, and Nero turned to see the towering figure of Rubeus Hagrid. The half-giant stood head and shoulders above the throng, his wild mane of hair illuminated by his lantern.
"That's Hagrid?" Ember whispered, her eyes wide with amazement.
"He's... bigger than I imagined," Alaric added, though there was no fear in his tone, only wonder.
Hagrid's name was known to the magical family that attended Hogwarts.
"Come on, now!" Hagrid called, waving the first-years over with a broad grin. "Follow me, we'll be takin' the boats across the lake!"
Nero, Ember, Lilith, and Alaric moved as part of the crowd of first-years, weaving through the sea of older students heading in a different direction. Hagrid's presence seemed to steady the group as he led them down a winding path toward the lakeshore.
As they approached, the still, glassy surface of the Black Lake stretched out before them. The moon cast a silver sheen over the water, and on the far side, the majestic silhouette of Hogwarts loomed, its turrets and towers glowing with golden light.
"Wow," Ember breathed, her usual energy giving way to awe.
Even Lilith, usually composed and guarded, seemed momentarily captivated. Her gray eyes softened, reflecting the shimmering lake.