Footsteps clattered down the sweeping staircase. Pansy Parkinson appeared first, robes billowing behind her, a genuine grin splitting her face.

Behind them, a cluster of familiar faces descended the stairs — Draco, Theo, Lorenzo, Mattheo, and Astoria, all dressed in comfortable, expensive-looking robes, all wearing variations of the same welcoming smile.

Mattheo stepped forward, reaching out to gently brush a smudge of ash from Y/n's shoulder.