The appointment of a new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor was necessary after Umbridge's removal. Professor Remus Lupin was asked to return, much to the students' delight. He brought a sense of competence and compassion that had been sorely lacking. Lupin's return was a welcome change, and he quickly set about restoring order and confidence in the DADA curriculum.
With Lupin back, Hogwarts felt like a safe place once more. The students could focus on their studies and prepare for the challenges ahead. Izzy, with Luna by her side, felt more determined than ever to make the most of her final year at Hogwarts.
Izzy and Luna sat together in the Room of Requirement, the ambiance calm and inviting after an intense training session in Umbreath. The magical room had adapted to their needs, providing a comfortable space adorned with plush cushions, warm lighting, and an air of serenity. Izzy's mind was still buzzing from her practice, but she felt a sense of peace being here with Luna.
Luna was curled up beside Izzy, her head resting gently on Izzy's shoulder. The tranquility of the room was a stark contrast to the chaos and tension they had faced with Umbridge. Now, with Professor Lupin back in charge of Defense Against the Dark Arts, things seemed to be settling into a more positive rhythm.
Izzy turned to Luna, her voice soft. "How are you finding the new Divination teacher?"
Luna looked up, her dreamy eyes meeting Izzy's. "Oh, Professor Firenze is wonderful. His lessons are so different from Trelawney's. He teaches us to see the future in the stars and nature, rather than just tea leaves and crystal balls. It's quite enlightening."
Izzy smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her. "I'm glad to hear that. It's good to have a teacher who brings a fresh perspective."
Luna nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, it's like he opens a whole new world of possibilities. And he doesn't get flustered when people don't see what he sees. He's very patient."
There was a moment of comfortable silence as they both reflected on their respective studies and the changes at Hogwarts. Izzy felt a sense of gratitude for these peaceful moments amidst the turmoil. She reached out, gently taking Luna's hand in hers.
"Luna," Izzy began, her voice filled with sincerity, "I'm really glad we have each other. You've been a source of strength for me."
Luna's eyes sparkled with affection. "And you for me, Izzy. You've shown me that it's okay to stand up for what you believe in, even when it's difficult."
Their connection felt stronger than ever, and in that moment, words seemed unnecessary. Izzy leaned in, closing the small distance between them, and pressed a gentle kiss to Luna's lips. The kiss was soft and tender, filled with unspoken promises and a deep, mutual understanding.
When they pulled away, Luna's cheeks were slightly flushed, and she smiled warmly at Izzy. "I love you, Izzy."
"I love you too, Luna," Izzy replied, feeling a profound sense of happiness.
They sat there in silence for a while longer, simply enjoying each other's presence. The Room of Requirement had provided them a sanctuary where they could be themselves, free from the pressures and expectations of the outside world.
Eventually, Izzy stood up, extending a hand to Luna. "Shall we head back? There's still a lot to prepare for our final year."
Luna took her hand, standing up gracefully. "Yes, let's go. I'm excited for what's to come."
As they left the Room of Requirement, Izzy felt a renewed sense of purpose.
The warm afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the Hogwarts grounds as Izzy made her way to the courtyard where Fred and George Weasley were often found. The twins were always up to something, their minds constantly churning with new pranks and inventions. Today, Izzy had a proposal that she hoped would benefit all of them.
She spotted the twins near a cluster of students, showing off a new product with their characteristic enthusiasm. As she approached, they looked up and greeted her with identical grins.
"Izanami! To what do we owe the pleasure?" Fred asked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
"Yeah, Izzy, you look like you've got something interesting on your mind," George added.
Izzy smiled, appreciating their energy. "Actually, I do. I wanted to talk to you two about your plans for the future. Specifically, your joke shop."
The twins exchanged a surprised glance. "How did you know about that?" Fred asked, a hint of suspicion in his voice.
Izzy shrugged lightly. "Let's just say I've got my ways. But that's not important. What is important is that I believe in your idea, and I want to help you make it a reality."
George raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you proposing?"
Izzy took a deep breath, getting straight to the point. "I'm offering to invest in your business. I'll provide the initial funds you need to get started, and in return, I want a part of the business. Think of it as a partnership."
The twins were momentarily speechless, a rare occurrence. Fred was the first to recover. "You're serious, aren't you?"
"Very serious," Izzy confirmed. "I've seen the potential in your inventions, and I know you can make this work. With the right backing, your shop could become legendary."
George rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "And what makes you so sure you want to invest in a joke shop? It's a bit risky, don't you think?"
Izzy met his gaze steadily. "I believe in taking calculated risks. Besides, I know talent when I see it. You two have something special, and I want to be part of it."
Fred and George exchanged another look, this time filled with excitement. "Well, we can't say no to that, can we?" Fred said, a grin spreading across his face.
George nodded. "Welcome aboard, Izzy. This is going to be brilliant!"
They shook hands, sealing the deal. Izzy felt a surge of satisfaction. She had always admired the twins' ingenuity and spirit, and now she was part of their journey to bring laughter and magic to the wizarding world.
As they walked back towards the castle, discussing plans and ideas for the shop, Fred couldn't resist asking, "So, how did you know about our joke shop plans, anyway?"
Izzy smirked. "A little bird told me. Let's just say I've got my sources."
The twins laughed, their excitement palpable. With their combined talents and resources, the future looked bright for Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.