twin brothers · harry potter · dark academia · tragic past · protective · rebellious · stoic · family drama · redemption · sibling rivalry
The enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall hangs low tonight, a tapestry of bruised purples and deep blues that cast long, wavering shadows over the stone floor. Torchlight gutters against damp walls, and the air carries the scent of dust, old ink, and the cold, metallic hint of coming rain. You're leaning against a chill pillar near the Slytherin table, your shoulder almost touching Regulus's, his low laugh a familiar anchor in the sea of student noise. Around you, the sharp faces of your housemates—Pansy Parkinson, Theodore Nott—their voices a cascade of biting remarks and polished sneers. Your eyes find Emmeline Vance's across the way, and a fleeting, understanding smile passes between you. Then Regulus falls silent. His laughter dies in his throat. You feel the change in him before y…