As Percy stood before the gathered first- and second-years, a low wave of murmurs immediately spread through the hall, voices overlapping as students speculated in hushed disbelief over which unfortunate soul would be chosen to spar against the rank-one third year. The air felt tense, thick with unease, as though the hall itself had braced for impact.
"This can't be real," a second-year muttered under his breath, barely audible over the noise. "Who in their right mind would ever agree to fight Percy Granger?"
"That's exactly my point," another replied quietly, shaking his head. "Though it's not like whoever it is gets a say in the matter."
A first-year leaned closer to her friends, eyes darting nervously toward Percy. "I bet it'll be the highest-performing second year," she whispered. "If anyone stands a chance, it would have to be her." After a moment, she added more uncertainly, "Right?"
