Delyth Snape

The Boggart

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As I walked into the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in my stomach. My father's words echoed in my mind: "He is a fool. Incompetent. And dangerous." My gaze drifted to Professor Lupin, who stood at the front, his face marked by scars that caught the light in a way that made them seem almost alive. I found myself wondering how he had gotten them. Was it a battle? An accident?

"Class, today we'll be facing a Boggart," Lupin announced, his voice calm and reassuring. "They take the form of whatever you fear most. The trick is to make it laugh. You'll use the spell 'Riddikulus.'"

I watched as he demonstrated, summoning the Boggart from a cupboard at the back of the room. It emerged as a moon but Lupin quickly transformed it.

"Who's next?" Lupin asked, and I felt a wave of nerves wash over me.

Students stepped forward one by one, facing their fears. A Slytherin faced a giant snake, which Lupin promptly turned into a rubber chicken, much to the delight of the class. 

Then it was Cedric's turn. He stepped up confidently, but as the Boggart emerged, it transformed into a snarling creature that looked like a dragon. Cedric quickly shouted, "Riddikulus!" and the creature morphed into a fluffy kitten that meowed adorably. Laughter erupted once again, and Cedric grinned, returning to his seat with a triumphant air.

Next, it was Ernie's turn. He approached the cupboard with a slightly nervous look. When the Boggart appeared, it took the form of the sea. For a split second, I thought he might falter, but he quickly cast the spell.

Finally, it was Hannah's turn. As she stepped up, I could see the nervousness etched on her face. The Boggart emerged, and gasps rippled through the room. It took the form of a disheveled version of herself—hair wild and wearing pajamas. Laughter erupted from the class, and I could see Hannah's face pale. She stood frozen for a moment, then turned and ran out of the classroom, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Wait!" I called, instinct kicking in as I dashed after her. 

I looked for her and finally, I found her in the bathroom leaning against the wall, sobs racking her body.

"Hannah, I'm so sorry," I said, my heart aching for her. "It's just a Boggart. It doesn't mean anything."

"It felt so real," she cried, wiping her eyes. "I can't believe everyone laughed. I'm never going to that class again."

I locked the door in the bathroom and sat next to her as she rested her head on my shoulder. Once she was feeling better I accompanied her to the common room. 

The bell rang, and I was late for class. I was walking so quickly I didn't see Lupin. 

"Oh I'm sorry, I didn't see you, Professor."

"Delyth! I was just looking for you. How is Hannah?" He asked with genuine concern behind his eyes.

"She's troubled," I replied, my tone distant and cold. The image of Hannah crying in the bathroom appeared and I was suddenly angry at him. 

Lupin nodded, understanding flickering in his eyes. "It can be tough facing our fears, especially in front of others. Assure her, they will forget about it by tomorrow."

"Maybe it wouldn't have happened if you'd been more competent," I said, the bitterness creeping into my voice before I could stop it.

"Delyth," he replied softly, his tone measured and surprised., "I know you must be upset about what happened to your friend." He paused. "And I understand. Maybe I should have been more careful, Boggarts can be hard to handle."

I considered his words, feeling a mix of anger and empathy. "That's alright Professor." I looked at him in the eyes and left with the feeling he wanted to say more, but I was late to Potions. 

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