PV Battered, Broken, but Breathing Closed

AJ's first ever duel as Captain of the newly formed Pride of Pendrast Duelling team had not exactly left Pendrast much to be proud of. He'd allowed his own nerves to get the better of him, not only fumbling a simple spell and scorching his hand but also missing and allowing himself to be firing lined by his opponents. Not great Captaining overall, and it had left him feeling pretty in the pits about himself.

He was dressed in normal school uniform. The only 'accessories' were a small plaster to cover a cut on his head he'd received when he fell unconscious, and a bandage on his hand to deal with his burn. It was after class hours at this point. AJ hadn't really been able to focus all day, his mind had been so preoccupied with what had transpired.

There was one person he hoped could shed some clarity on things, maybe help him improve. One of his heroes and inspirations. The elegant and powerful Professor of Defence against the Dark Arts, @Elaine Pendrast.

He actually wasn't sure if she'd still be in her classroom or if she would have gone back to her office already. To be honest, he wasn't sure if it would be ok for him to bother her with his problems. These thoughts made him hesitate as he held his hand up to knock on the door. He almost pulled away, almost went back to his common room and didn't bother with any questions.

Fortune favours the bold however, and you'll find none bolder than a Gryffindor.

He knocked gently on the door three times. Loud enough to be heard but not loud enough to be shocking. The door was already open a crack and so he gently leaned forward and pushed it open slightly. He cleared his throat, trying to focus on making his accent less prominent. He always tried to get close to the Queen's English when talking to Professor Pendrast. He never wanted to sound weird when conversing with her.

"Pru...Profehsur...Pu-Pendru-drast..." He slowly stammered out. His accent was...far from perfect.

"A-are ye-...yoo beesy? I-I was hopu-hoping! Teh...to ask you somethe-thing!" It was certainly difficult, but he was trying his best. He let the door remain a little more ajar as he stepped back. He hadn't even looked to see if she was definitely in there.

He hoped she was, otherwise he'd look like a right idiot.