The dawn broke gently over the Beauxbâtons Château as students began filing through the ancient corridors, their steps echoing softly on the polished stone. Among them, Eira walked side-by-side with Marin, their conversation light but edged with the subtle anticipation of a new term.
Today was the first day of Magical Defense—a class many students approached with a mix of eagerness and apprehension. The subject was known to be demanding, the professor renowned for his strictness and unwavering seriousness.
As they approached the classroom, Eira noticed immediately how different it looked from last year. Gone were the softly lit tapestries and ornate furnishings; instead, the room now resembled a practical training hall. Thick stone walls lined with protective wards, spell-inscribed pillars, and a large, reinforced glass enclosure dominated the far end of the chamber.
At the podium stood Professor Gabriel Vaillant—a tall, imposing figure whose reputation preceded him. His black robes were immaculate, his gray eyes sharp and piercing beneath heavy brows. He gave no smile, no welcoming nod, merely surveying the gathering students with a quiet intensity.
As the last students took their seats, the classroom settled into a heavy silence.
Professor Vaillant's voice cut through the stillness.
"Welcome to your third year of Magical Defense," he began, his tone deep and measured. "This year, we focus on practical skills—the ability to protect oneself against magical threats, especially those that lurk beyond the classroom walls."
He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping the room.
"Today's lesson concerns defense against one of the most dangerous magical creatures known to wizards and witches—the Nundu."
A collective gasp swept through the students. Whispers of nervous excitement passed from one to another.
Eira's heart quickened. The Nundu was infamous, described in the oldest magical texts as a giant leopard-like beast whose breath was toxic enough to wither entire villages.
Professor Vaillant raised a hand, silencing the murmurs.
"The Nundu is a rare but deadly creature. It requires careful handling and formidable defensive magic. Today, you will learn the 'Repello Nundu' charm."
He gestured toward the glass enclosure, and within it, a massive shadow stirred. The sleek form of the Nundu was revealed—a huge feline, its golden fur mottled with dark spots, eyes glowing faintly in the dim light.
The creature exhaled slowly, a faint mist curling from its nostrils.
Professor Vaillant continued, "Repello Nundu is a specialized charm designed to repel or temporarily incapacitate this beast. It is not meant to harm, but to protect."
He demonstrated with a sharp flick of his wand, a pulse of shimmering energy striking the creature. The Nundu growled low, recoiling slightly but not retreating fully.
"Observe closely," he said. "The incantation requires precise pronunciation and a firm, focused intent. The energy must be channeled carefully to create a barrier or lull the creature into submission."
Turning to the students, he commanded, "Now, each of you will attempt the spell. Approach the enclosure carefully, take aim, and cast Repello Nundu."
One by one, the students approached hesitantly, their wands trembling as they muttered the incantation. Most spells fizzled weakly or missed entirely, eliciting soft groans or nervous laughter.
Marin stepped up with a grin, his voice loud enough to carry, "Well, let's see if I can save the day, or at least not get eaten."
He aimed his wand and cast the charm with exaggerated flourish. The spell struck the Nundu, causing it to blink in mild surprise but otherwise unimpressed.
Professor Vaillant's eyes narrowed.
"Mr. Marin," he intoned, "this is a serious lesson, not a performance."
Marin shrugged with a mischievous smirk, "Just trying to keep things interesting, Professor."
The class chuckled quietly, but Professor Vaillant remained stoic, unfazed.
When it was Eira's turn, she stepped forward with calm confidence. Her eyes locked onto the Nundu as she raised her wand.
In a clear, unwavering voice, she intoned, "Repello Nundu."
A radiant pulse of silver-blue energy surged from her wand, enveloping the creature in a shimmering shield. The Nundu recoiled, its growl softening to a low rumble before it settled back, pacified.
Professor Vaillant's gaze lingered on her, and for the first time, a subtle nod of approval crossed his austere face.
"Miss White," he said simply, "well done."
Eira returned to her seat, the quiet pride of accomplishment warming her.
The lesson continued in this fashion, the professor guiding each student through the process, correcting their form, encouraging focus.
Between turns, Marin whispered dry comments.
"Next thing you know, he'll have us petting the Nundu," he joked softly.
Eira smiled but shook her head. "Better focus—this is serious."
Professor Vaillant concluded the session with a lecture on the importance of respect when facing magical creatures, especially dangerous ones.
"Magic is not a weapon of destruction," he said gravely, "but a shield of protection. You must learn restraint, control, and above all, understanding."
As the class dismissed, students buzzed with excitement, some still shaking from their close encounter.
Eira and Marin left together, the morning sun bright on their faces.
Marin grinned, "Well, that was intense. Professor Vaillant may be strict, but he's got style."
Eira chuckled under her breath. "You know, people who've taken lives—or seen them taken—don't come out untouched. They get serious, guarded. And considering the professor's history in the last Wizarding War, it's no wonder he drills us so hard."
Marin smirked. "Rumor has it he lost his lover in that war. Quit as Head Auror the next day and came here to teach."
He gave a dramatic, almost dreamy sigh. "Men in love…"
Eira shot him a flat look. "Oh, please. You wouldn't know love if it hexed you in the face. You swap girlfriends faster than you swap socks."
"Hey!" Marin protested, grinning. "That's not—"
"You're thirteen, Marin," Eira cut in, rolling her eyes. "Merlin help us if you ever do fall in love. The poor girl will need hazard pay."