The Hog's Head was dimly lit, its usual musty smell hanging in the air. The group of students from Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw huddled together in the back of the pub, away from prying eyes. You sat amongst them, a quiet buzz of anticipation settling over the room. Hermione stood at the front, her arms crossed, her expression serious but determined.

“We’re not here to talk about lessons or Umbridge,” Hermione began, her voice low but steady. “We’re here because the Ministry is ignoring the truth, and we can’t afford to do the same. We all know what’s coming. We need to learn how to defend ourselves, properly. That’s why we’re starting this group.”

Harry sat beside her, silent but present. Ron stood to her other side, nodding as Hermione spoke. You watched as her eyes scanned the room, landing on each person in turn, her words sinking in.

A Ravenclaw leaned forward, whispering nervously, “And you really think this is safe? What if she finds out?”

Hermione met the student’s gaze, her tone firm. “It’s not about safety. It’s about being ready. We’re not going to sit by and wait for someone else to protect us.” Her eyes flicked to Harry. “Harry’s faced You-Know-Who. He’s going to teach us what we need to know.”

The room fell silent. Harry finally spoke, his voice calm but filled with purpose. “This isn’t a joke. If we do this, we’re risking a lot. But it’s worth it.”

You felt the tension in the air shift. Fear was still there, but so was something else—a growing resolve. Hermione smiled faintly, sensing it too.

“So,” she asked, her voice clear now, “who’s in?”

The room seemed to hold its breath, waiting for someone to make the first move.