The beginning of a friendship PV Thomas Lancaster

The courtyard had quickly become one of my favourite places at Hogwarts. Compared to the busy corridors, it always felt much more peaceful. Students wandered between classes, chatted with friends on the benches, or simply enjoyed the fresh air before heading back inside. It was one of the few places where I could sit quietly and clear my mind after a busy morning.

With some free time before my next lesson, I decided to take advantage of the nice weather. I stepped out into the courtyard, taking a slow walk along the stone paths. The flowers planted around the edges were in full bloom, adding little splashes of colour against the grey castle walls. Every now and then, a gentle breeze stirred the leaves in the trees overhead, making the courtyard feel even more relaxing.

It was strange to think that I was already in my second year. During my first year, everything had seemed so unfamiliar, but now Hogwarts was slowly beginning to feel like a second home. Even so, there were still corners of the castle and grounds I hadn't properly explored. I wondered if I would ever truly know every hidden passage and secret the castle seemed to hold.

As I wandered through the courtyard, I found an empty bench beneath a tree and sat down for a moment. Resting my bag beside me, I let my eyes wander around the courtyard, watching students come and go while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. After some time, I took my book out of my bag, opened it to where I had left of and began reading.