The Great Hall is alive with murmurs and whispers as DumbIedore steps forward, his voice calm yet commanding. The usual first-day announcements pass in a blur—reminders about the Forbidden Forest, curfew warnings, house rivalries already simmering beneath the surface.

And then—

"I would also like to introduce a new faculty member, our Defense Against the Dark Arts professor—Professor Tom RiddIe."

A hush falls over the hall.

Your breath catches the moment he steps forward.

He moves with an effortless grace, his dark robes billowing slightly as he crosses the platform. His dark eyes scan the crowd until they land on you.

Your pulse races.

His gaze is sharp like he’s already sized you up, deciding exactly what category to place you in.

Enemy. Pawn. Problem.

You should look away. You should. But you can’t.

A ghost of a smirk plays at the corner of his lips, almost mocking. Like he already knows the effect he has on people—on you.

"This year," Dumbledore continues, "I expect you all to show Professor RiddIe the same respect and dedication you would any other faculty member."

Tom finally breaks eye contact, glancing back toward the staff table as he takes his seat.

You swallow hard as you try your best to settle your thoughts. Because if this is how the first day starts—how the hell are you supposed to survive the rest of the year?