Chapter Text
Prologue:
Hogwarts Castle, Greenhouse.
It’s a lovely morning at Hogwarts. The sun shines gently, adding a touch of warmth to the crisp spring air for those who step outside.
Zachary Fair, a fifth-year Gryffindor, leans against his workstation, impatient as ever. Lazy posture, foot tapping the floor in an erratic rhythm, he clearly wishes he were dueling in the courtyard instead of listening through a lecture. His uniform reflects his rushed morning: the robe is slightly off-center, the orange plaid vest beneath it is wrinkled, his tie is barely straight, and his shoes are loosely tied. He had clearly overslept and barely made it to class on time.
Now, half-listening as Professor Hewley explains the theory behind a new spell, one that will ease certain carnivorous plants, Zachary fidgets restlessly.
His best friend, Claude Strife, also a fifth-year Gryffindor, leans against the workstation beside him. In contrast, he's neatly dressed and paying attention, his posture composed and focused.
“Claudieee… I’m bored.” Zachary whispers in a whiny tone.
Claude doesn’t even look at him. He just rolls his eyes.
“So, what do you expect me to do?” he mutters dryly.
Zachary sighs.
“I don’t know! Can’t we just try the spell already? This theory stuff is such a nonsense!”
Before Claude can respond, Zachary grabs the open textbook from him and blurts out the spell, mimicking the wand movement, but mispronounces the Latin incantation entirely.
“Mister Fair! What are—” Professor Hewley begins, turning toward him.
But he's interrupted.
A sudden portal bursts open behind them.
In a quick flash of motion, Zachary and Claude, along with their belongings, are sucked into it. The portal snaps shut with a crack, leaving behind a stunned classroom and a panicked professor.