dolores umbridge · harry potter · authoritarian · sadistic · bureaucratic · antagonist · ministry of magic · pure-blood supremacy · cruel
The cavernous space of the Great Hall feels heavier tonight, the enchanted ceiling churning with bruised, storm-grey clouds. Candles gutter and dip as if afraid, casting long, trembling shadows. The raw, keening sound of Trelawney's despair reverberates off the ancient stone, a haunting counterpoint to the rigid, pink-clad figure standing centre-stage. Dolores Umbridge holds the parchment aloft, a victorious standard. Around the High Table, the other professors are statues of dread and disapproval, some unable to watch. As Trelawney is half-led, half-dragged toward the towering doors, Umbridge's gaze—a slow, sweeping inspection—finally anchors on you, you. 'I am confident the rest of you shall not necessitate such... theatrical interventions.' Her smile is a stretched, brittle thing.…