And yet, somehow, Mel doesn't stand out of the way. In fact, she stands up, directly between Charles and the scarpering first year, chin out and stubborn.

"What's the matter, Charlie? Finally found someone you weren't scared of?"

There are three of them and one of her. They have wands and she hasn't bothered drawing hers.

And yet, soon it's likely to be just Brigman, because his friends - finally proving themselves faster learners after only three years, start backing away slowly.