Chapter 6
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, it all belongs to JK Rowling…I'm merely an obsessed fan with ideas stuck in my head.
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Leila found Daphne impatiently waiting outside a carriage for her; she had her arms folded across her chest. Leila picked up her pace to a jog and hopped into the carriage behind Daphne, paying no mind to the thestral pulling the carriage. Not many people could see them as she had found out last year in Hagrid's Care of Magical Creature's class. She and Harry were part of the small number of students who could see them. Leila instantly took her seat in the carriage beside Daphne and looked to see who else occupied their carriage: Theodore Nott and Blaise Zabini.
"What took you so long, Potter?" Theo asked.
"Just checking the train over, I am a prefect," Leila said lightly.
Theo nodded and smiled at her. Leila had a fling with Theodore Nott last year which she wouldn't call it a relationship because it was mainly snogging to keep Malfoy at bay. Whatever it was, she had ended things with him immediately once her brother had gotten wind of the situation, thanks to Ron. She had been snogging Theo in an abandoned corridor when Ron and Hermione had caught them during their prefect patrol. Neither docked any House points, but Ron telling Harry was punishment enough. She knew that Theo still harbored feelings for her, but Leila didn't reciprocate the feelings; besides, Daphne had recently taking a better liking to Theo. Leila remained silent, staring at the grounds while Daphne mercilessly flirted with Theo. That boy had to be thicker than she imagined if he didn't catch on to Daphne's feelings soon. Daphne's attempts soon fell flat and the carriage overcame an uncomfortable silence. Theo attempted to ease the awkwardness by bringing up the topic of Quidditch, probably the last thing Daphne would ever want to talk about.
"Leila, how many openings are on the team this year?" Theo asked.
"Erm…technically, every position is open except Urquhart's chaser position because he's captain; but there's one empty roster spot from last year," Leila said.
"Damn, I was hoping that you'd be captain," Theo smiled.
"Nope, I'm just a plain prefect. Are you thinking of trying out?" Leila asked.
"Yeah, but my chances would have been better if you were captain," Theo said.
"What about you Blaise?" Daphne asked.
"I didn't realize we were part of this conversation," Blaise said.
"Of course we are," Daphne huffed.
"Then yes, I will be trying-out for chaser," Blaise commented.
"Lovely," Daphne said.
Leila glanced between the other members of her carriage and decided that her best option was to continue Lockhart's book, which she pulled from her bag. She adjusted the way she sat so that the moonlight could shine on her book for ample reading light. As she read another page, Daphne attempted to draw Theo into conversation, but he was occupied watching Leila. He reached over and grabbed the book from her hands, examining it.
"Give it back," Leila whined.
"Lockhart's book? Weren't we supposed to read this second year?" Theo asked.
"Yes, but I never read it. So just give it back," Leila said.
"Oh look, we're nearly to the castle," Daphne said changing the subject.
Leila quickly snatched her book back from Theo and put it back into her bag. She then leaned her head on Daphne's shoulder as her best friend conversed with Theo and Blaise on the upcoming school year. The carriage eventually came to a stop outside the gate into Hogwarts and the four sixth years exited their carriage and proceeded to the long line for entering the grounds. Mr. Filch had a security sensor and was triple-checking everyone who stepped through the gates. Once you made it past Filch, Professor Flitwick awaited students to check them off his list. The boys grumbled about the upped security, but Leila didn't mind. For once, Leila wanted a safe and uneventful year at Hogwarts. She had enough drama over the past five years to last her a lifetime. Once she had made it past security, she looped arms with Daphne and headed for the castle. The castle didn't seem to have the charm and grandeur that it held those many years ago when she had first graced the hallowed halls of Hogwarts.
Leila followed Daphne over to the Slytherin table and took a seat beside her. The only problem with being friends with Daphne was that Daphne had grown up being friends with the rest of the girls in Slytherin. So, that usually meant an unbearable meal stuck somewhere close to Pansy Parkinson and the same went for tonight. Pansy took the seat across from Daphne in between Tracey Davis and Goyle. Leila was surprised to find that Malfoy wasn't in the Great Hall nor was her brother. She wondered if something happened, but when she had taken her final round on the train she hadn't seen anyone. Leila was about to get up to investigate the matter when Malfoy swaggered into the Great Hall. He sat down next to Pansy and Goyle, which happened to be across from Leila.
"What did you do?" Leila hissed.
"Next time keep the strays out," Draco glared.
"You're an arse," Leila sneered.
"I could care less what you think of me," Draco drawled.
"Knock it off: both of you," Daphne said.
"I will if he does," Leila muttered.
"How mature, Potter." Draco said.
"And when did you become one for maturity?" Leila quipped.
"At least I have matured; can't say the same for you," Draco retorted.
"Arse," Leila hissed.
"Now you've both done it, Snape's watching," Daphne said.
Leila turned her attention to the staff table to find that Daphne was telling the truth. Snape had been intently watching the scene between her and Malfoy. Leila made eye-contact with Professor Snape who seemed to glare at her but he quickly looked away. Leila turned her head to find what had captured Snape's attention: the grand Great Hall doors had been flung open and the new first years walked in following a strict-looking Professor McGonagall. Their faces were priceless, many of them looked terrified causing Leila to slightly chuckle as she remembered back to her Sorting ceremony.
Flashback to 1st year
Leila stood nervously on the staircase beside her brother, wringing her hands. Professor McGonagall had just given her talk about Hogwarts, the Houses, and rule-breaking. The older professor had gone back through the doors to make sure the school was ready for their arrival. Leila was nervous. What if she didn't belong at Hogwarts? What if it was all a mistake and she was sent back to the Dursleys without Harry? What House would she be in? What if she got separated from her twin? These questions plagued Leila's mind as they waited outside the giant doors.
"How exactly do they sort us into our Houses?" Harry asked.
"Some sort of test. Fred said something about battling a troll," Ron said.
"What happens if we fail this test?" Leila asked.
"I dunno. I think Fred was joking about the troll though; but sometimes it's hard to tell with him," Ron said.
Leila's heart sank at Ron's uncertainty. Professor McGonagall came back for them and ushered them into somewhat of a line. Leila walked behind Ron, who separated her from her brother. Leila exhaled deeply not even realizing that Draco Malfoy was behind her until he attempted to strike up a conversation with her.
"So you're really Leila Potter?" Malfoy asked.
"The answer hasn't changed since the last time I told you," Leila said.
"Don't believe a word that comes out of Weasley's mouth. We don't battle a troll." Draco said.
"And why should I believe you?" Leila asked.
"Because my father told me what to expect. I can tell you if you'd like." Draco smirked.
"Well go on then," Leila said.
"Father said that the Sorting Hat gets placed on our heads and it tells us which House we go to," Draco said proudly.
"Does it hurt?" Leila asked.
"He never said," Draco said less confidently.
"Some help you are," Leila said shaking her head.
Leila could hear Hermione Granger going on about the enchanted ceiling causing Leila to roll her eyes. She, Harry, and Ron had met the bossy girl on the train and Leila wanted nothing to do with her. She was determined not to be placed in the same House as that know-it-all.
"Does she ever shut up?" Leila muttered.
"I was wondering the same thing," Draco said.
"I wasn't talking to you, but I'm beginning to wonder the same thing about you," Leila said.
Draco looked slightly offended, but then smirked.
"I think we'll get along well, Leila," Draco smirked.
"I don't even know you," Leila said.
"Don't worry you will," Draco responded.
Leila shot Malfoy a disgusted look and picked up her pace, causing her to almost trip over Ron. Ron cursed as Leila ran into him and several students witnessed the exchange and snickered. Leila didn't care that they were laughing at her expense, she needed to get away from that prat Malfoy. So far, Leila hadn't found many people whom she wanted to be friends with; hopefully her luck changed once she was sorted. Professor McGonagall had them gather close together up front, surrounding a stool with an old dilapidated hat on it. Leila took her place beside her brother double-checking to make sure that Malfoy and Granger weren't anywhere near her. She looked oddly to the boy beside her who was muttering "Stay calm, Neville," to himself. She rolled her eyes and turned her attention back to Professor McGonagall who was beginning to call students forward. After several students, Hermione Granger was declared a Gryffindor. Leila made a mental note to avoid Gryffindor otherwise be tormented by the annoying know-it-all. Draco Malfoy was eventually declared a Slytherin before the Sorting Hat even had a chance to be placed on his head.
"There's not a single witch or wizard who went bad who wasn't in Slytherin," Ron muttered.
"He looks like more of a prat than evil," Leila said.
"But he's a Malfoy," Ron hissed.
"What's that supposed to mean," Leila answered.
Ron didn't have much of a chance to explain what he meant because Harry was called up to the stool. Leila's stomach dropped in nervousness for her brother; but Harry would be fine. He was always brave and better in odd situations than she was. The Great Hall was silent as the Sorting Hat took forever to place Harry. It appeared that he was having a conversation with the Hat. Leila's nervousness grew, wondering what the Sorting Hat could possibly say about her; but it soon declared Harry to be a Gryffindor! The Gryffindor table erupted in cheers of "we've got Potter" and Leila's heart slightly sank as she watched her brother take a seat beside Hermione Granger.
"Leila Potter," Professor McGonagall called.
Leila slowly walked up to the stool and sat down. The school again went silent as Professor McGonagall placed the Sorting Hat on her head. Leila listened quietly as the Sorting Hat listed off some of her qualities: intelligent, determined, resourceful, and the potential for greatness. It was scary how a hat could know a person so well, especially when Leila had never considered herself with much of these qualities. After the Sorting Hat having a debate with itself, but Leila didn't argue with it; she figured that the Sorting Hat knew what it was doing. Moments later, the Hat declared her a Slytherin! Draco Malfoy stood up and cheered her to the Slytherin table. This time the Slytherins cheered "we've got Potter." Leila looked over to the Gryffindor table who looked confused, but none looked more confused than her brother. This was the first time they had ever been separated for as long as Leila could remember. She trudged over to the Slytherin table where room was being made for her beside Draco Malfoy. Leila slumped into her seat, not saying a word.
"Well well, Leila Potter, looks like things are going to get interesting," Draco Malfoy smirked.
End 1st year Flashback
Leila watched as the last few students got sorted before looking over to the Gryffindor table. She saw Ginny, Ron, and Granger; but Harry was still missing from the Gryffindor table. Leila narrowed her eyes at Malfoy who briefly made eye contact with her before narrowing his eyes in return.
"Where is he, Malfoy?" Leila hissed.
"Far from here," Draco sneered.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Leila questioned.
Malfoy began making motions to his nose which pissed Leila off, so she slammed her fists against the table causing Daphne's goblet of pumpkin juice to spill. She didn't even bother to help clean up the pumpkin juice which was headed toward Malfoy; instead she got up to go find her brother. She walked with purpose toward the doors of the Great Hall when they suddenly swung open and Harry walked through them. Leila breathed a sigh of relief and ran to her brother whom she enveloped in a hug; but he quickly pushed her off to wipe his nose which was bleeding profusely.
"Merlin, Harry, I thought Malfoy killed you or something," Leila said.
"Well, I'm here," Harry said.
"What did he do to you?" Leila asked.
"Later, right now I just want to get to the Gryffindor table," Harry rushed.
"At least let me check to make sure that you're all right," Leila said sympathetically.
"Err…my nose, I think it's broken; but it's nothing I can't handle," Harry said.
Leila reached for her brother's face, but he quickly swatted her hand away. Leila rolled her eyes at her brother's typical male reaction. Leila crossed her arms across her chest as Harry looked down the Gryffindor table. She knew that he was probably hungry, but she wanted some answers.
"Am I allowed to ask how it got broken?" Leila asked.
"Malfoy stomped on it," Harry sighed.
"That arrogant prat, he's getting a piece of my mind…" Leila began.
"I can handle Malfoy," Harry said.
"He's in my house; I'm more than capable of handling him," Leila said.
"I don't want you anywhere near him and that's a disturbing mental image," Harry responded.
"What is?" Leila asked.
"You handling Malfoy; I don't ever want to imagine that ever again," Harry said.
"That's disgusting. And to think I was going to be nice and fix your nose?" Leila quipped.
"Well, Madam Pomfrey's not too far from here," Harry said.
"Just let me do it the spell it isn't that difficult," Leila said.
"I thought you said…" Harry began.
"Oh, c'mon just let me do the spell," Leila whined.
"Fine," Harry grumbled.
Leila ushered her brother just outside the doors of the Great Hall. Technically speaking, she wasn't supposed to be performing magic especially on a student. So as long as they weren't seen they she wouldn't get caught. Leila drew her wand and pointed it at Harry's face. She performed an Episkey! spell which caused Harry's nose to return to normal. Harry groaned in pain after his nose was snapped back into place. After a few seconds, with his eyes watering and his nose still bleeding, he looked to his sister.
"Better?" Harry asked.
"Much, but the bleeding probably isn't going to win you any hearts tonight Mr. Chosen One," Leila smirked.
"Girls, they're the least of my problems," Harry muttered.
"Aww…you don't consider me a problem?" Leila asked.
"No, you're my sister; my number two problem," Harry said.
"I can handle my own; you don't need to worry about me." Leila said.
"Sure you can," Harry said.
"I can prove it to you, if you'd like," Leila said.
"Oh forget it; let's get back to the feast. So, what did I miss?" Harry asked.
"The sorting," Leila said.
"That's all right; those things are boring to watch anyways," Harry said.
"Says the boy who's missed how many of them now?" Leila teased.
Harry rolled his eyes at Leila snarky comment. It was true that he had missed a few Sorting ceremonies; but he always had reasonable excuses. Harry absently rubbed as his nose which was still bleeding profusely. Leila sighed and dug in her pocket for a tissue which she transfigured into a rag, which was a little more absorbent than a regular piece of tissue. She handed the rag to Harry who immediately pressed the rag to his bleeding nose.
"Thanks," Harry said.
"Yeah, that just goes to show I'm the smarter twin," Leila smiled.
"I've always known that," Harry grinned.
"And you finally admit it!" Leila almost screamed.
Harry chuckled and shook his head. He walked back to the entrance doors to the Great Hall and held it open with his spare hand for Leila to walk through. Leila nodded in thanks as she walked into the Great Hall. Once inside, she parted ways with her twin; Harry headed back to the Gryffindor table while Leila headed for the Slytherin table. Leila was almost to the end of the Slytherin table when a stern-looking Professor McGonagall walked toward Leila. She tried to speed up to get to her spot at the Slytherin table because she would prefer Snape to punish her instead for using magic in the corridors.
"Miss Potter," Professor McGonagall called.
Leila froze and cringed. Damn. She was almost to her spot, so close yet so far away. She turned and smiled sweetly at Professor McGonagall hoping that a smile would somehow lessen the severity of her punishment. Professor McGonagall's stern expression didn't soften so Leila sighed and prepared for her punishment for her rule-breaking.
"Yes Professor?" Leila asked.
"This is for you," Professor McGonagall said.
Professor McGonagall handed her a letter which confused Leila. This is not what Leila was expecting. She was expecting a week's worth of detentions with Mr. Filch or an essay on the importance of following the rules: not a letter. Leila opened her mouth to form the words which never came, which Professor McGonagall must have caught on to because she spoke.
"It's from Professor Dumbledore. I suggest you open it now before returning to your table," Professor McGonagall said.
"Yes, ma'am," Leila mumbled.
Professor McGonagall stiffly nodded before heading back to the staff table. Leila glanced down the Slytherin table, where Daphne was once again trying to talk to Theo. She had nothing to rush back to, so she hastily opened the envelope. She unfolded the piece of parchment inside and read:
Miss Potter,
You owled me saying you wish to meet. How will tonight after the feast work? In case you were wondering, I'm quite fond of Cockroach Clusters.
Professor Dumbledore
Leila quickly tucked the letter in her pocket of her robe before continuing her walk to the Slytherin table. Her gaze fell upon Malfoy who was playing with his fork in a bowl of jell-o, while Parkinson gossiped with Tracey Davis. He seemed a bit distracted, but Leila shook off any concern because it wasn't anything for her to worry over. Instead, she took her seat across from the blonde-haired boy who didn't even acknowledge her reappearance. Leila narrowed her eyes at him and kicked him hard in the shin for what he did to Harry. Malfoy scowled in pain and quickly shot a look of disgust at Leila. He then looked up to Professor Snape, whose gaze had returned upon the sixth year Slytherins; which caused Malfoy to grunt and return his attention back to his food.
"Oh Malfoy," Leila sang sweetly.
"I told you to leave me alone, Potter," Draco hissed.
"I just wanted to inform you that you're doing rounds by yourself tonight," Leila said.
"And where do you think you are going to be?" Draco drawled.
"I have a meeting," Leila shrugged.
"Who'd want to meet with you?" Draco scoffed.
"That's none of your business," Leila retorted.
"You're ditching me when we're supposed to be patrolling? I think it is my business," Draco said.
"If you must know, I have a meeting with Dumbledore," Leila hissed.
"Dumbledore? Why would he want to meet with you?" Draco sneered.
"Maybe it has something to do with the fact that someone's been trying to kill me for the past six years," Leila hissed.
"It's not you they've been trying to kill," Draco muttered.
"What?" Leila asked.
"I'm going with you to see Dumbledore," Draco said sternly.
"I thought you're trying to stay away from me; besides, you've got to patrol," Leila retorted.
"I'm not doing it," Draco said.
"Oh no, you're not getting out of this. You made me patrol alone on the train, so you can walk the damn castle by yourself," Leila hissed.
Draco glared at her appearing as if there was something more he wanted to argue about; but they were interrupted as Dumbledore began his beginning of the year speech. Leila turned around to watch as Professor Dumbledore spoke from the front of the Great Hall; but in the corner of her eye, she swore she saw Malfoy tense up. He was acting oddly even compared to the end of last year. Maybe Harry had something to his theory; but Leila shook that thought off to listen to Dumbledore.
"We are pleased to welcome a new member of our staff this year, Professor Slughorn. Professor Slughorn is a former colleague of mine who has agreed to resume his old post of Potions master," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Potions?" Daphne whispered.
"Then what's Snape going to teach?" Leila asked.
"Obviously not Potions," Daphne said lightly.
"Thanks, I never would have figured that one out," Leila said sarcastically.
"Professor Snape, meanwhile, will be taking over the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher," Professor Dumbledore said over the student's talking.
Most of the Slytherin table cheered and burst into a round of applause but, Harry could be easily heard from the Gryffindor table over all the commotion. Leila inwardly cringed and slowly turned to her brother who was animatedly talking to Ron and Hermione. Harry looked mad. Defense was easily his favorite and best class; but it was now going to be taught by Harry's most-hated teacher. Leila knew Snape to be a worthy candidate for the job; but she also knew of the jinx on the Defense position. He'd be gone by the end of the year; that's always what happened to anyone who took the job. Quirrell died in attempts to get the Philosopher's Stone for Voldemort. Lockhart had his memory wiped when his Memory Charm backfired in the tunnel to the Chamber of Secrets. Lupin had been outed as a werewolf. Moody turned out to be Barty Crouch Jr., a Death Eater in disguise. Last but not least, Umbridge had been carried off by centaurs. Leila turned her attention from her brother to Daphne.
"Looks like someone's not too happy," Daphne commented.
"I don't expect him to take the news well; Harry and Snape hate each other," Leila said.
"Obviously, the whole school's known that since our first day at Hogwarts," Daphne said.
"Doesn't look like I can complain that this year will be boring," Leila said.
Daphne chuckled lightly before leaning over the table to whisper something to Pansy. Leila glanced over to Malfoy who seemed bored by what Dumbledore's speech. He was making his fork hover in midair with his wand. Leila scowled in disgust before snapping her fingers at him causing him to lose concentration and his fork to clang back onto the table. Malfoy glared at her, but she responded by rolling her eyes before turning her attention back to Dumbledore.
"As you know, each and every one of you was searched upon your arrival here tonight. And you have the right to know why. Once, there was a man like you, who sat in this very hall. He walked in the castles corridors, stepped under its roof. He seemed to all the world, a student like any other. His name, Tom Riddle," Dumbledore said.
The Great Hall was soon filled with the sound of students whispering amongst themselves. The younger students at the Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw tables looked to the older students in a panic. The only table to remain silent and calm was the Slytherin table; the table which Tom Riddle once happened to belong to. This wasn't an accomplishment that Leila was proud of, it was a connection to Voldemort that Harry didn't have; which bothered her but she tried not to let it show.
"Today of course, he is known all over the world by another name. Which is why I stand looking out upon you all tonight; I'm reminded of a sobering fact. Every day, every hour, this very minute perhaps Dark forces attempt to penetrate this castles walls. But in the end, their greatest weapon is you," Dumbledore said.
Leila looked over to Harry, reminded of the way Voldemort had used Harry last year. Leila's heart ached for her brother at the memories of that dreadful night in the Department of Mysteries. Sirius, they had both lost Sirius that night. Sirius had been willing to take them both in once his name was cleared; but that was never going to happen. Instead, she hoped that Voldemort would abandon use of the connection and they could maybe have a normal year at Hogwarts.
"Just something to think about. Off to bed. Pip pip!" Dumbledore finished.
The Great Hall was immediately abuzz with students pushing their benches back and heading for their respective common rooms. Daphne patted Leila on the shoulder as she walked away with Flora Carrow. The first years looked to their prefects for directions, but both sixth year Slytherin prefects remained seated at the table. Leila watched as the fifth and seventh year prefects scrambled to round-up the first years. Leila snapped her fingers once more at Malfoy, who was twirling his wand staring-out into nothing.
"He's done you know," Leila said.
"Shut up, Potter," Draco sneered.
"That means you need to go help the ickle-firsties," Leila retorted.
"Mind you own business, Potter!" Draco hissed.
"Don't tell me what to do," Leila fought back.
"Draco, are you coming?" Pansy called.
"I'll be right there Pansy," Draco muttered.
Leila found Pansy waiting several feet away from Malfoy, watching them with her arms crossed. She rolled her eyes, knowing that Pansy probably saw something to be jealous over. Honestly, what could she possibly be jealous about? Wasn't this what she wanted: Leila and Malfoy hating each other? Draco simply watched the wall behind Leila absently, which frustrated her. This was probably pissing Pansy off, which she would be hearing of later that night. She narrowed her eyes and turned to walk away; but she could hardly pass-up a moment to yell at Malfoy.
"Malfoy patrol," Leila hissed.
She turned back and saw him glare at her. With a look of satisfaction on her face, she quickly spun on her heel and exited the Great Hall. She walked slowly to Professor Dumbledore's office; partially because the first years were clogging up the main staircase and partially because she needed to think about what she wanted to tell Dumbledore. She wondered how she would tell him what she knew…or rather what she thought she knew. But wouldn't that be a bit accusational? She didn't really care for Malfoy, but Harry's theory that he was a Death Eater was a very serious matter. If only she could know for sure. When she came to the gargoyle she said the password and hopped onto the moving stairs which led her up to Dumbledore's office. She found the office to look the same as it had the year before: cluttered by many objects but very intriguing. Leila found Dumbledore sitting behind his desk with a gentle smile on his face.
"Miss Potter, how pleasant of you to stop by," Dumbledore smiled.
"Thanks for taking the time, sir," Leila said.
"Lemon drop?" Dumbledore asked.
"Yes sir thanks," Leila said.
Leila plunged her hand into the small candy dish on Dumbledore's desk which contained the Muggle sweet. She quickly popped on into her mouth and began to suck on the hard candy. Dumbledore chuckled lightly at Leila's innocent act, wishing that she could remain a child much longer than she was probably going to with these Dark times.
"Now, I believe in your letter you said you had something you wished to discuss with me. Have you had another dream?" Dumbledore asked.
"No, sir. It's just been the same dream, but becoming a little clearer," Leila said.
"How so?" Dumbledore asked.
"I think I may know who the dream is about," Leila hesitated.
"And who do you believe it to be about?" Dumbledore asked.
"What if I tell you and I'm wrong? This could ruin him. Exposing someone as a Death Eater is a serious accusation," Leila responded.
"Miss Potter, if you think you know something that could potentially danger my students I need to know," Professor Dumbledore said.
"I...I…it's nothing." Leila said.
"Miss Potter," Dumbledore said sternly.
"I'd like some time to make certain," Leila said.
"My door is always open, Miss Potter, but please know that I may be gone from time to time this year," Professor Dumbledore said.
"All right..." Leila said slowly.
"So, I'd suggest that if you wish to say something I'd say it now," Professor Dumbledore glanced at her.
"I—I can't," Leila sighed.
Professor Dumbledore looked at her sternly. She did want to tell him of her suspicions; but couldn't bring herself to do so. Some unknown loyalty for Malfoy's protection prevented her from telling Dumbledore everything she knew. But she didn't want to be made a fool of by being wrong; by doing exactly what Harry did last year. As much as she tried to deny it, what if these dreams were from Voldemort? What if he was trying to fool her like he did Harry? Leila couldn't take the risk of being wrong; she had to explore every option first.
"I'm sorry Professor, but I can't, not yet," Leila said.
Dumbledore nodded his head.
"Miss Potter, I want you to be careful this year," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Yes, sir. Of course, I haven't any intention of finding trouble this year. Usually, it seems to find me," Leila responded.
"That it does, so be on alert this year for anything out-of-place," Dumbledore said gently.
"I will, sir," Leila agreed.
"You may return to your common room, Miss Potter. Good luck on your studies, and may I congratulate you on placing second in your class after your O.W.L. examinations. You came in a very close second to Miss Granger," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Thank you, sir," Leila smiled.
Leila awkwardly said good night and left Dumbledore's office and in direction for her common room. She knew she should have told him about her suspicions of Malfoy, but she couldn't bring herself to do it. She tried to convince herself that Harry was the one suspicious of him, not herself; but she would investigate the matter and take action from there. Leila walked down to the dungeons. The corridors were abandoned and the place almost seemed peaceful; until she was almost to the common room, when she met up with Malfoy.
"How was patrol?" Leila asked.
"How many times am I going to have to tell you to leave me alone?" Draco sneered.
"What's your problem?" Leila asked.
"You," Draco spat.
"How original," Leila rolled her eyes.
Malfoy shook his head before saying the password to the common room. Leila quickly followed him inside, keeping close behind him. When they got inside the room was full of students chatting. She and Draco must have just missed Professor Snape's beginning of the year introductions and warnings. Leila couldn't say that she minded they were the same boring rules every year. Draco sat on the couch rigidly beside Crabbe who was chatting with Hestia Carrow. Leila was going to go straight to her dormitory, but she couldn't resist the temptation to rub-in Malfoy's shortcomings. Leila walked behind the couch, leaning over the back so that her mouth was near Malfoy's ear.
"One more thing, Malfoy," Leila said.
"What?" Draco said coldly.
"Congratulations on coming in third this year; you're father must be so proud," Leila taunted.
"Don't you dare mention my father, Potter!" Draco roared.
Malfoy instantly flew to his feet and yanked Leila by her arm until the couch was no longer a barrier between the pair. Leila tried to force him off, but his grasp was tight on her arm. By this point, everyone in the common room was now watching the pair. Malfoy attempted to intimidate her, by towering over her; but she wasn't about to back down to him.
"Or what? Mummy will come to your rescue?" Leila pushed.
"Don't insult my family," Draco said.
"Well, you're a pathetic lot anyways. Now unhand me," Leila demanded.
"Or what? Are you scared Potter?" Draco raged.
"Me scared of you, ferret?" Leila scoffed.
Draco's grasp on Leila's arm tightened as he reached his full height. Leila too pushed herself to her full height of 5' 1 ½''. The common room remained silent watching the scene unfold before them. Leila saw Daphne motioning for her to stop; but she was going to end this once and for all. She narrowed her eyes and kicked Malfoy in the shin causing him to yelp and instantly release her arm. Leila backed away from Malfoy, who rubbed his shin.
"Don't you ever touch me again," Leila seethed.
Malfoy's eyes instantly shot-up to Leila. He sneered and drew his wand, aiming it at Leila.
"Don't ever insult my family, you filthy half-blood," Draco hissed.
Leila drew her wand in response to Malfoy's action, ready to duel if it proved necessary. They both had been taught the art of dueling second year by Lockhart and Snape, and for once it appeared that something Lockhart taught might come in useful.
"And what are you going to do about it Malfoy?" Leila sneered.
The crowd circled around Draco and Leila, trying to get a good view at the Potter v. Malfoy duel. Draco sneered and shot a spell at Leila, which she easily deflected. Her practice last year with Dumbledore's Army prepared her for Malfoy's spell. Leila cast a spell at Draco; but he too was prepared for her offensive and deflected her spell. He was about to aim another spell at Leila when the common room erupted in gasps and backed away from Draco and Leila.
"Potter, Malfoy, what is the meaning of this?" Professor Snape asked.
Draco and Leila both turned their attention to Snape, but neither of them put their wands down. Snape growled and suddenly, both of their wands went flying into Professor Snape's hand. Snape looked livid and their fellow Slytherins began to whisper.
"Malfoy, Potter, with me now," Snape snapped.
Snape quickly billowed for the exit of the common room. Once he was to the door, he turned around to find neither Draco nor Leila following. He scowled and clapped his hands furiously: they were in trouble. Leila narrowed her eyes at Malfoy and followed Snape. Malfoy sneered at her behind her back and followed only to get his wand back. Professor Snape led them out into an abandoned corridor.
"You're both prefects! You two should not only know better but are to be an example to the younger students. Fighting in the common room is not acceptable behavior from either of you!" Professor Snape raged.
"She started it," Malfoy drawled.
"I'm not the one who's being a prat," Leila hissed.
"I don't care who started what. You both are likely candidates for Head Boy and Head Girl next year…" Snape began.
"As if that matters," Draco scoffed.
"I will not have the two of you ruining the name of Slytherin because you of some twisted romantic entanglement…" Snape continued.
"You've lost your mind if you think he and I are romantically entangled!" Leila shouted.
"Don't think that your behavior since you've gotten onto the Hogwarts Express has not reached my ears. The spat on the train and at the dinner table? This is the final straw. If I hear so much as an inkling that you two have so much as even looked at each other wrong, you both will be in detention," Snape said.
"So are we getting off with a warning this time?" Leila asked.
"I haven't finished yet, Potter. I want a thirteen inch essay…" Snape began.
"Just give me the detention!" Leila interrupted.
"You both will have an essay on my desk by class tomorrow, and let me remind you once more even inkling and you're both in detention," Snape hissed.
"At least detention will get me away from him," Leila muttered.
"Oh, no. If I hear anymore of this you both will be serving detentions together until you learn to behave and respect each other," Snape said.
"You can't give me detention. I have things I need to do," Draco sneered.
"Then, I suggest that you two learn to get along," Snape said slowly.
Snape handed them their wands back and billowed away. Leila and Draco stood there glaring at each other.
"You've got to be kidding me," Leila scoffed.
"Leave me alone, and this won't become a problem," Draco hissed.
"What happened to you?" Leila asked softly.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Draco asked.
"You've changed so much. Where's the boy who was madly in love with me?" Leila asked.
Silence over took them, and after a long pause Draco finally answered.
"He died the day you got my father sent to Azkaban," Draco sneered.
"Malfoy." Leila sighed.
"Just leave me alone," Draco said walking away.
Leila just stood there watching him walk away. She couldn't even control her thoughts about him, but she didn't want to dwell too much on him so she headed back to the common room. Leila walked past Parkinson, Zabini, Crabbe, and Goyle.
"Where's Draco?" Pansy asked.
"How should I know? What do you think I am, his girlfriend? Oh, wait, that's you," Leila said.
Pansy glared at her and turned her attention back to her conversation. Leila shook her head, she would like nothing more than to strangle the living daylights out of Parkinson sometimes. Leila made her way to her dormitory. She found that her belongings were in their normal place. Flora and Daphne were in the room. The Slytherin girl's rooms were set up in a long rectangular room. The beds went down the wall in a row. Leila was always stuck with the last bed. She didn't really mind, but it just meant that she had to walk past Tracey Davis, Millicent Bulstrode, Pansy Parkinson, Hestia Carrow, Flora Carrow, and Daphne Greengrass every day. She was glad that Daphne took the bed next to hers.
"What's with you?" Daphne asked.
"Just got yelled at by Snape," Leila said.
"Why?" Daphne asked.
"Why else do you think? Malfoy!" Leila yelled.
"I told you something like this would happen," Daphne said.
"Yeah, well apparently if Malfoy and I don't start getting along, we get detention. This is ridiculous!" Leila vented.
"Maybe you two will finally get together and in detention of all places." Daphne smiled.
"Don't start this up again. You know, what I'm just going to ignore you and go to bed." Leila said.
Daphne shook her head and Leila rolled her eyes. Leila slipped into bed and hoped her dreams were much better than how her day had gone. Professor Snape on the other hand, made his way to Professor Dumbledore's office. He had a dull headache from dealing with Mr. Malfoy and Miss Potter. Those two were going to be a pain all year, he could just tell.
"Severus," Professor Dumbledore said.
"You wished to see me Headmaster?" Snape asked.
"Yes. I want you to keep any eye on Miss Potter this year," Professor Dumbledore said.
"She's already causing problems in my House," Snape said.
"Ah, and what has she done already?" Dumbledore chuckled.
"She and Draco Malfoy were about ready to duel. Had I not intervened things could have gotten very out of hand," Snape said.
"It seems to me, Miss Potter and Mr. Malfoy are going to have many problems this year," Dumbledore said.
"Why's that?" Snape asked.
"If I'm not mistaken, I do believe Miss Potter already knows of Mr. Malfoy's, extracurricular activities, shall we say," Professor Dumbledore said.
"What, how?" Snape asked.
"She's not sure yet, but she's willing to protect him. She wouldn't tell me, but I know she believes her dreams to be about him," Dumbledore said.
"Has she had anymore?" Snape asked.
"Not that she has told me. But Severus, please keep them both safe this year. They're going to need it," Dumbledore said.
Snape nodded curtly and left Professor Dumbledore's office. He was now certain that he was going to have his hands full this year trying to protect Draco Malfoy and Leila Potter, especially from each other.