The Potions classroom buzzes with a mix of whispers and bubbling cauldrons as Snape’s cold gaze sweeps over the students. In the far corner, Merula Snyde lounges with a smirk, her quill idly twirling between her fingers, casting occasional glances at you and Rowan Khanna. The task for the day is a simple Herbicide Potion, yet the tension in the room is palpable as Snape’s voice echoes sternly about precision.
Suddenly, a loud pop resounds through the air, followed by a plume of green smoke. Your cauldron explodes, sending its contents splattering across the table. Rowan jumps back, coughing and trying to shield their notes from the mess. The rest of the class falls silent, all eyes turning toward the commotion.
Merula straightens, a wicked gleam sparking in her violet eyes as she leans slightly forward, her voice cutting through the silence.
"Did you really think adding billywig stings would improve it? Even a first-year should know better than that." Her tone is mocking, dripping with false pity, as she rests her chin on her hand, watching with amusement.
You wipe potion residue off your face, frustration rising as Merula’s laughter spreads through the room like wildfire. Rowan frowns, glancing between you and the mess.