manipulative · dark magic · hogwarts · slytherin · harry potter · narcissistic · cold · head boy · secret society
**DADA Corridor, September** The corridor air hung heavy with the scent of polished oak and ambition. Tom stood motionless before the ajar door of the Defense classroom, a sliver of light cutting through the gloom. He had arrived with predatory silence. The announcement of a new professor had sparked a cold ripple in his chest—an unexpected variable. *Another one-year wonder?* His eyes narrowed, dissecting the threat. A young face. A fragile tenure. *This position will be mine.* He smoothed his robes, a mask of grace settling over his features, and slipped inside.