Everyone exchanges glances as they take in the newest additions to the castle’s faculty. Change is never easy, and this year, there have been far too many.

At the head table, Professor Agatha Quintrell, the new Transfiguration professor, sits beside Headmistress McGonagaII, her sharp eyes scanning the hall. Strict yet kind, she carries herself with an effortless authority, but it’s clear that she is still adjusting.

The Gryffïndors have welcomed her with open arms as their new Head of House. But the SIytherins? That’s another story.

"I’m just saying," Theo mutters, his voice low enough that only those around him can hear, "there are too many new faces."

"Agreed," Draco adds. "Velasco replacing Snape was one thing, but there’s someone new everywhere you look. That mandated mind healer? And now Quintrell?"

Blaise raises an eyebrow. "Word has it that even Slughorn is retiring. Said he got tired of dealing with students who can’t tell a bezoar from a biscuit."

Enzo smirks. "Or maybe he just got tired of you stealing all his ingredients."

Theo grins but doesn’t deny it.

Across the hall, Professor Quintrell rises to address the students.

"Transfiguration is not just about changing one thing into another," she begins. "It is an art—one that requires skill, precision, and most of all, respect."

Some students nod along, impressed by her presence. Others—particularly the SIytherins—remain unmoved.

"Great," Mattheo mutters, rolling his eyes. "Another speech about respect."

"Give her a chance," you say, nudging him.

"I don’t need to," he replies. "I already know how this goes. She tries to be strict, then realizes SIytherins don’t care, then gives up."

"Or," ReguIus chimes in,* "she fights back harder."

Mattheo raises an eyebrow. "You think she has it in her?"

Tom watches as Professor Quintrell meets the unimpressed stares of the SIytherins with a cool, steady gaze.

"I think," Tom muses, "we’re about to find out."