The New Marauders

James' fear

The third-year Gryffindors and Slytherins filed into the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, chattering amongst themselves. It wasn't just any lesson today-James Potter's dad, Harry Potter, was their new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, and everyone was buzzing with anticipation. Whispers of excitement and curiosity swirled around the room, though James pretended to be unaffected. His dad teaching his class was both cool and awkward.

"Settle down, everyone," Professor Potter said, standing at the front of the room, his voice calm but authoritative. The students quickly found their seats, glancing up at the man who had once been the Boy Who Lived, now teaching them how to defend themselves against the dark arts.

James sat with his fellow Marauders-Edward, Nate, Sam, and Luke-occupying a row in the middle of the classroom. He could feel the eyes of several Slytherins on him, but he kept his focus on his dad, trying to appear relaxed.

"Today," Professor Potter began, "we'll be tackling a creature that tests your ability to confront your fears. We're going to be working with a Boggart."

Murmurs spread through the class as they all realized what that meant. The students exchanged nervous glances, but there was also a flicker of excitement at the prospect of facing their deepest fears in the safety of the classroom.

Professor Potter gave a small smile as he continued, "For those who don't know, a Boggart is a shape-shifter that takes the form of whatever you fear most. The good news is, a Boggart can be defeated using the Riddikulus charm, which forces it to assume a humorous form. Laughter is the best way to overpower a Boggart."

James felt a small knot tighten in his stomach. He hadn't exactly thought much about his biggest fear, but now it seemed like he would have to face it in front of the entire class. He glanced at Edward, who had gone a bit pale. He knew that his friend's biggest fear was a Dementor-Edward had told him about it last year after hearing stories of his dad's encounters with them.

"Now, I need a volunteer," Professor Potter said, gesturing to the wardrobe at the back of the classroom, where the Boggart was contained. "Who's up for it?"

Before anyone could raise their hands, Nate Thomas piped up, "James should go first, Professor. He's got to set the example, right?"

A few students snickered, and James shot Nate a mock glare. "Thanks, mate," he muttered under his breath as he stood up, feeling all eyes on him.

Professor Potter raised an eyebrow, but there was a hint of amusement in his expression. "Very well. James, if you're ready, stand in front of the wardrobe."

James moved to the front of the class, trying to keep his nerves in check. His friends watched him intently, along with Sophie Ellis and Mia Longbottom, who were sitting just a few rows behind them. As he stood there, he couldn't help but wonder what form his fear would take. He had a suspicion, but facing it was another matter entirely.

Professor Potter flicked his wand, and the door to the wardrobe slowly creaked open. Out stepped the Boggart, which quickly morphed into a giant, slithering Basilisk, its eyes glowing dangerously, fangs bared. The enormous serpent hissed, and James froze, feeling a rush of fear course through him. He could hear the gasps from his classmates, but he forced himself to act.

"R-Riddikulus!" James shouted, his voice wavering slightly, but he waved his wand with determination.

The Basilisk's eyes crossed in confusion as its massive body shrank, its scales turning into bright, ridiculous colors like a rainbow. The fearsome serpent's hiss turned into a comically high-pitched squeak, and its fangs morphed into large, floppy rubber teeth. The class burst into laughter, and James couldn't help but smile, feeling the tension ease.