Tamblin mulled over Nott's words and couldn't find fault with them. He knew that Dumbledore and Voldemort might have different methods but the aim was always the same: power. The Demosthenes had carefully shepherded their resources through history by making the pragmatic choices with regards to power-mad princes. His father had chosen poorly and it had nearly destroyed the family line. But had those who had supported Dumbledore done any better? No. And Cascata's story was all too common. Those who were neutral but caught between. Casualties to Dumbledore and Voldemort's ambition.
He was walking by the hospital wing when Lisa Turpin and Mandy Brocklehurst came out holding a couple of vials. Lisa looked up, saw him, and waved.
"Hey, Tamblin!"
"Uh, hello... Lisa. What's that?" Tamblin pointed at the vial she was holding.
Lisa looked a little embarrassed.
"Oh it's just a little...um...potion."
"I can see that."
"I've...I mean we've both had trouble sleeping recently. Everything is just too scary with students getting attacked. Madam Pomfrey gave us these. She said they'd help us to relax before sleep."
Tamblin peered at the innocent-looking clear liquid.
"Really?"
"Yeah. Why, do you need something to help you sleep too?"
Tamblin thought.
"Hrrm. Maybe. Would you mind if I borrowed a small amount of yours?"
"No, not at all."
Lisa smiled again and Mandy rolled her eyes and sighed noisily. Even though he was trying to avoid being around her the attention was a great temptation. She radiated it like warmth. He felt almost human.
Tamblin reached into his cloak and pulled out an empty vial. Lisa uncorked hers and carefully poured a small amount into Tamblin's vial. As soon as she'd put the cork back in Mandy started tugging on her arm.
"Come on Lisa, let's get back to the common room."
Lisa waved.
"Bye, Tamblin!"
As soon as they were out of sight Tamblin held the vial up to the light to examine it.