THE LOST DOG ' s. black

[14] dumbledore's army

The atmosphere in the Room of Requirement was buzzing with anticipation as I entered for the last Dumbledore's Army meeting of the term. The walls shimmered with a faint glow, and the scent of dust and worn leather filled the air. Students were scattered around, chatting excitedly, their faces illuminated with determination and camaraderie. 

I had been hearing whispers about the DA from Del, and despite my initial hesitation to join, curiosity had won out. The chance to stand alongside my friends and learn how to defend myself against the darkness looming over us was an opportunity I couldn't pass up any longer. 

As I stepped further into the room, I spotted Harry, Hermione, and Ron huddled together near the front. The trio was discussing something animatedly, and I couldn’t help but feel a warm rush of belonging wash over me. 

“Eloise!” Del waved from a nearby corner, her hair bouncing as she motioned me over. “Come join us! We’re just about to start!” 

I made my way over, trying to shake off the nervousness clinging to me. “Hey, everyone,” I said, giving a nod to each of them. 

“Glad you could make it!” Harry grinned, his enthusiasm contagious. “You’re just in time for the last meeting of the term. We’ve got some fun stuff planned!” 

“Fun stuff?” I raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Like what? More hexes and jinxes?” 

“Exactly!” Ron said, his face lighting up. “We’re going to work on some defensive spells and maybe a few surprise tactics. Just you wait!” 

Hermione chimed in, “And we’ll also be practicing some dueling techniques. It’s important to be prepared, especially with everything that’s been happening lately.” 

I nodded, feeling the weight of her words. There was a quiet seriousness in the room, a shared understanding that we were all there for more than just a bit of fun. 

The room began to fill with more students, their voices creating a symphony of excitement and determination. I took a moment to observe them, realizing that this group was more than just friends; we were allies fighting for a common cause. 

As the meeting commenced, Neville took the lead, stepping up to address everyone. “Alright, everyone! Thanks for coming. Today, we’re going to practice some spells that might come in handy against Death Eaters, especially the stunning spell.” 

He demonstrated the spell with confidence, a flick of his wand sending a burst of blue light shooting across the room. “Remember to focus on your intent and aim carefully,” he instructed, his voice steady. “Let’s partner up and practice!” 

Del nudged me. “Want to pair up? I could use your expertise!” 

“Sure,” I replied, trying to mask my anxiety. I had seen plenty of spells in action, but practicing them was a different story. 

We moved to an open space in the room, and I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. I took a deep breath, centering myself. “Okay, just like we practiced in theory,” I murmured, recalling the notes I had taken in class. 

Del grinned at me, her wand raised. “Ready when you are!” 

“On three?” I suggested, trying to keep my voice steady. 

“Sounds good. One, two, three!” 

We both shouted “Stupefy!” at the same time, and two beams of light shot from our wands, colliding mid-air with a loud crack. I couldn’t help but laugh at the unexpected result. 

“Nice one!” Del exclaimed, her face alight with joy. 

We continued to practice, going back and forth, occasionally joining other pairs for tips and encouragement. I noticed Hermione and Harry across the room, their bond evident as they worked seamlessly together, offering each other guidance and support.