Seven Dragon Fangs Gather

It was Friday, June 12.

After several consecutive days of intense O.W.L. examinations, there was finally a brief lull. For most Slytherin students, it was a chance to catch their breath.

Skylar knew that Morrie and Hermione had an Ancient Runes exam that day, while everyone else was mostly preparing for the next one.

The Slytherin Common Room was unusually lively. Green flames flickered in the fireplace, casting shifting light and shadow across the stone walls. The air was thick with the smell of parchment, ink, and lingering exhaustion.

"I swear, if the next examiner asks me to explain the relationship between 'concentration of will' and 'spell stability' again, I'm snapping my quill in half right there." Pansy lounged in an armchair, rubbing her wrist without bothering to hide her irritation.

"At least you managed to finish writing." Daphne's voice was calm, though unusually weary. "The second half of the Transfiguration paper felt like it was screening future Ministry of Magic officials."

Nott sat in the shadows nearby, flipping through his notes. He gave a derisive snort. "That was the point. The exams are just an excuse. What they really want to see is who can stay clear-headed under pressure."

"Clear-headed?" Goyle looked up blankly. "I just want to sleep for three days."

Crabbe nodded in agreement, dragging a plate of snacks in front of himself as he mumbled, "Or four."

Millicent Bulstrode sat on the other side of the sofa. Rarely, she did not argue with Pansy, merely sighing. "I'm writing essays even in my dreams. When I wake up, I still think I've turned in my Herbology homework late."

A few soft laughs rose through the common room, and the tense atmosphere finally loosened somewhat.

Draco leaned beside the fireplace, looking considerably more relaxed. His fingers played with