𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗻

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫

The Great Hall of Hogwarts was resplendent with candles floating above, casting a warm, flickering glow over the rows of long tables laden with food. The enchanted ceiling mirrored the night sky, dotted with stars and a crescent moon. It was the start of a new school year, and the excitement was palpable. The first-years, wide-eyed and nervous, sat at the front, glancing around in awe at the grandeur of their new home. Older students chatted animatedly, catching up on summer adventures and speculating about the upcoming year.
At the staff table, where the professors and headmaster sat, there was a noticeable new presence. Professor Vivienne Florere, the newly appointed Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, sat poised and serene, her eyes scanning the room with a keen interest. Her long, dark hair was swept back into an elegant twist, and her robes, a deep shade of midnight blue, seemed to shimmer slightly in the candlelight. There was an air of mystery about her, something that suggested she had seen and experienced more than she let on.As Professor Dumbledore rose to speak, a hush fell over the hall. His twinkling eyes swept over the students as he welcomed them back.

"Another year at Hogwarts begins," he said, his voice calm and reassuring. "I am delighted to see so many familiar faces, and to welcome our new students as well. Before we begin our feast, I have a few announcements."

He turned slightly to indicate Professor Florere. "It is my great pleasure to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Vivienne Florere. Professor Florere brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge, and I am confident she will be an excellent addition to our faculty."

There was polite applause from the students, though it was clear that most of them were more interested in the food that had yet to appear. However, at the Gryffindor table, three particular students were paying very close attention.

"She looks... interesting," Hermione Granger said, her eyes narrowed in curiosity. "I wonder where she's from. She doesn't look like she's from around here."

Harry Potter nodded, his gaze fixed on the new professor. "Yeah, there's something different about her. I can't put my finger on it."

Ron Weasley, ever the practical one, shrugged. "As long as she's not like Umbridge, I'll be happy. Can't be worse than her, right?"

Hermione rolled her eyes. "That's not exactly a high bar, Ron."As the feast began, with food magically appearing on the tables, the trio continued to watch Professor Florere intermittently between bites of roast chicken and mashed potatoes. They noticed the way she interacted with the other professors—cordial, but with a certain reserve. She spoke little, mostly observing and listening.After the feast, as students made their way to their respective common rooms, the trio lingered behind, hoping to catch a word with the new professor. They were not the only ones. A small group of Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs were also hanging back, curiosity evident in their faces.To their surprise, it was Professor Florere who approached them. She had a way of moving that was almost silent, like a shadow. Up close, they could see her eyes were a striking shade of green, sharp and discerning.

"Good evening," she said, her voice soft but clear. "I couldn't help but notice a few inquisitive looks. Is there something I can help you with?"

Hermione, never one to miss an opportunity, stepped forward. "Professor Florere, welcome to Hogwarts. We were just wondering about your background. You seem... different from the previous professors we've had."A small smile played on Professor Florere's lips. "Thank you, Miss...?""Granger. Hermione Granger.""Miss Granger. I am indeed different from my predecessors, and I suppose that is both a blessing and a curse. I have spent many years abroad, studying various magical traditions and defenses. Hogwarts is a new chapter for me, one I am very much looking forward to."Harry, emboldened by Hermione's boldness, asked, "What sort of places have you been to, Professor?""Many," she replied, a hint of nostalgia in her voice. "I have traveled across Europe, Asia, and even spent some time in Africa. Each place has its own unique magic, its own ways of dealing with the dark forces we all must face."Ron, who had been silent up until now, couldn't help but ask, "Have you faced many dark wizards then?"Professor Florere's expression grew serious. "Yes, Mr...?""Weasley. Ron Weasley.""Yes, Mr. Weasley, I have. And it is those experiences that I hope to share with you all, to better prepare you for what lies beyond these walls."There was a moment of silence as the trio absorbed her words. There was something in her eyes, a depth of understanding and a hint of sadness that spoke of battles fought and sacrifices made."We should get to the common room," Hermione finally said, breaking the silence. "Thank you for speaking with us, Professor.""Of course. I look forward to our classes together," Professor Florere said, giving them a nod before turning to head toward the staff quarters.