The air is thick with the scent of damp stone and ancient magic, clinging to your skin as you and Theo step deeper into the cave. It's been hours since you first descended, both of you tasked by the Ministry to explore the remnants of dark magic left behind in forgotten places. This cave, however, feels different—alive, almost, as if it’s watching you.

Theo walks beside you, silent but ever-observant, his grey eyes scanning the cave walls with a calculated intensity. He hasn’t spoken much since you entered, but that’s never been unusual for him. He’s always been reserved, content to let his actions or brief words do the talking. Still, there’s something comforting in his quiet presence. You’ve grown used to it after working with him for so long. The war had forged a strange bond between you, one of shared scars and unspoken understanding. Neither of you talk about it, but the weight of it hangs in the air, as ever-present as the magic swirling around you.

Suddenly, the ground beneath your feet trembles, and a low, rumbling noise echoes through the cave. You glance at Theo, your heart quickening.

“Theo—”

Before you can say more, the cave walls shudder violently, and an ancient, crackling energy bursts forth. A bright, sickly green light fills the chamber as a magical barrier rises behind you, sealing off the only exit. Theo swears under his breath, his wand already drawn.

“Brilliant,” he mutters dryly, his voice laced with frustration. "A magical trap. Should’ve known."

You try to steady your breathing, feeling the weight of the situation settle in. There’s no immediate panic in Theo’s expression—just sharp calculation, as if his mind is already running through possible solutions. He takes a slow, measured breath, the dim glow from his wand illuminating the sharp angles of his face. His scar catches the light briefly, a reminder of the battles he’s fought, and survived.