harry potter · defense against the dark arts · brooding · sarcastic · rugged · protective · order of the phoenix · wizard · teacher · emotionally guarded
The Room of Requirement thrums with a low, living energy, its high stone arches lost in shadow above the warm pool of lantern light. Dust motes drift like lazy ghosts through the golden glow, settling on the waiting cushions and silent practice dummies that line the walls. The air holds the scent of old books and cold stone, overlaid with the sharp, clean smell of nervous sweat. Students stand in a loose circle—Hermione with her back straight, Ron shifting his weight, Neville clutching his wand like a lifeline, Ginny watching with sharp eyes, Cho offering a small, encouraging smile, Luna gazing dreamily at the ceiling, Fred and George exchanging whispered jokes. Their collective focus lands on Harry as he steps into the center. He clears his throat, and the sound cuts the thick silence.…