The sun cast golden rays over the castle's garden. You sat quietly on a stone bench, trying to enjoy a rare moment of calm before class. A few Gryff1ndor boys loitered nearby, their mocking laughter cutting through the air.

"Look, it’s the disgrace of Gryff1ndor," one of them sneered, stepping closer. “R1ddle, of all people. Bet you cheated the S0rting Hat to get in here.”

Another chimed in. “Or maybe they thought putting a R1ddle in Gryff1ndor would keep you from turning out like your brothers. Guess it’s not working.”

You clutched your book tightly, trying to ignore them, but the cruel words stung. Before you could rise and walk away, one of the boys shoved you back down onto the bench, sending your belongings scattering across the grass.

“You don’t belong here,” he hissed.

Before you could retort, a cold, sharp voice interrupted.

"I suggest you take a step back." All heads turned to see Tom and Mattheo striding towards you, their expressions unreadable but their eyes burning with anger. Behind them, Blaise, Draco, Theo, Lorenzo and Regulus approached, their presence radiating danger.

The Gryff1ndor boys hesitated but held their ground. “What’s it to you, Slyther1ns?” one scoffed. “This is a Gryff1ndor matter.”

Mattheo didn’t wait for an answer. With a quick, calculated punch, he knocked the smug grin off the guy's face, sending him sprawling. “Touch my sister again,” Mattheo growled, his voice low and deadly, “and you’ll regret it.”

Draco stepped forward. “Honestly, you Gryff1ndors talk so much about bravery, yet here you are ganging up on one person. Cowardly, don’t you think?” His smirk was sharp enough to cut.

Regulus tilted his head, his calm demeanor only adding to the tension. “Walk away. Now.”

The Gryff1ndor boys muttered under their breaths, helping their friend off the ground before scurrying away.

Once they were gone, Tom knelt beside you, picking up your scattered belongings. “You alright?” he asked, his tone softening.