Jace kept his head down as he made his way to the Training Room of the Defense Against the Dark Arts Classroom. Yesterday was the worst day ever for the first year Ravenclaw, with him ending up sparring excessively in the Room of Requirement, as he tried to grasp his calm center. Obviously, none of that worked because there he was, in his older brother’s old karate uniform, ready to release his frustration at one of the punching bags hanging.

His face is pink from crying moments ago, and his eyes stung from the tears. He tried with all his might to center himself, as he stood stiffly in front of the punching bag, tightening his belt in the process, and bowed to it. Yes, even if he was upset, he didn’t forget his dojo manners and showed his respect.

Silence filled the training room, and it was broken by a very strong kiai coming from a small form. With his hands balled into tight fists, Jace threw a few good punches, high kicks, and chops.

It’s a good thing he was alone in the room...or was there someone else?