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Josephine approaches the Ravenclaw table and notices Dorcas holding a newspaper, which is unusual since she rarely reads it. As Josie gets closer, she glimpses the headline: "Muggle family killed, The Dark Mark found." Concern fills her eyes, and she quickens her pace to reach Dorcas.
"Hey," Josie greets with a smile, gently pushing the paper down. "Your family is going to be fine," she reassures.
Dorcas sighs, expressing her fears. "I hope so, but it's just... scary."
They stand a bit apart from their other friends at the breakfast table. Pandora is engaged in conversation with Regulus, who seems guilty, while Evan and Barty stare at the paper.
Dorcas turns to gesture at the article. "I feel bad, but I can't help being scared when I see this."
"Don't worry, Dorcas. They'll understand your fear, and if they don't, fuck them," Josie assures her.
Dorcas lets out a small laugh. "Thank you, Jo."
They move closer to their friends, and Josie greets them. "Hello, guys."
Regulus and Pandora glance away from Dorcas, followed by Evan and Barty. Dorcas reassures them, and they all relax.
Dorcas changes the topic, eager to discuss the upcoming Quidditch games in November. She turns to Josie and asks, "You're coming to my first game, right? Ravenclaw versus Gryffindor this weekend."
"Definitely," Josie nods in agreement.
Dorcas smiles at her before her attention shifts to something behind Josie. Josie turns to see what grabbed Dorcas's attention and finds Marlene approaching.
Josie laughs and says, "Go if you want to."
After Dorcas nods and leaves, Josephine finds herself amused at the thought of seeing them face each other in the upcoming Quidditch game this weekend.
As she glances over, someone taps the table—it's Regulus.
He raises an eyebrow. "Do you want to walk to class together?"
She nods and grabs her bag, rising from the table. Regulus follows her as they make their way out of the Great Hall.
"We have patrol tonight, yeah?" he asks.
"Yes," she confirms.
"I might be a little late," he adds.
She tilts her head curiously. "Why?"
"I have to do something beforehand," he replies.
"Right," she says, narrowing her eyes slightly but choosing not to question him further.
Her thoughts shift to another topic—whether or not she wants Dumbledore to teach her Occlumency. It would be beneficial, but she doesn't want Dumbledore invading her mind. However, if he is the only option available, she will have to consider it. She also realizes she still hasn't read that book on Dark Arts, even though it is considered forbidden at Hogwarts. Her thirst for knowledge compels her to read it, regardless.
