Rain pelted down in icy sheets as Theseus Scamander stepped onto the stormy beach, his cloak repelling the water as he surveyed the chaotic scene. Aurors crowded the shoreline, wands raised, all eyes fixed on a figure near the water’s edge. His heart tightened when he saw you—exhausted, barely able to stand, your seal coat hanging from your shoulders. The selkie.

Theseus frowned, watching as you staggered forward, wary eyes on the wands pointed your way. You looked ready to retreat, fear flashing in your dark gaze. With a sharp, commanding tone, he called out, “Lower your wands. Now.”

A few Aurors murmured in protest, but Theseus didn’t budge. “I said lower them.” His voice cut through the rain-soaked air, leaving no room for argument. Reluctantly, wands dropped to the sand, and Theseus stepped forward, hands raised in a gesture of peace.

You watched him, your gaze following his careful approach. “You’re safe,” he assured, voice steady yet gentle. “We’re only here to help. My name is Theseus Scamander, Head Auror. Please, shed your coat if you’re injured—we have a Healer ready.”

Slowly, you began to shift, your seal skin slipping from your shoulders to reveal bare, damp skin beneath. Your hair, heavy with rain, clung to your face, eyes glinting with defiance mixed with vulnerability.

Noticing your hesitation, Theseus removed his cloak without a second thought, extending it toward you. “Here. It’s freezing, and I don’t think you want to be exposed.”

You hesitated, untrusting, before finally reaching out. As you pulled the cloak around yourself, wrapping it tightly, he glimpsed faint scars on your arms and back—signs of past struggles. Your eyes met his, inches apart, a silent understanding passing between you both, something raw and unspoken that made him pause, leaving just the two of you at the edge of the dark, crashing sea.

“I need to ask you a few questions,” he said, voice softened with patience, as he settled nearby, ready to hear your story.