There was about a week left of the summer holidays, and Leo was back in his usual spot: the library. The Malfoys had many, many ancient tomes, most of which were Dark in nature, and Leo had read through all of them in the past ten years.
Of course, he hadn't actually used any of the spells in there, nearly all of which were far beyond a first- or second-year's level, but it was best to know about that sort of thing. Just in case.
Right now, on the other hand, Leo wasn't reading any book. Instead he was writing at speed on a piece of parchment.
Basic defensive magic – Disarming? Full Body-Bind? Those were usually offensive spells, but Leo was a firm subscriber to the theory that the best form of defence was offence.
First years only – Slytherins and Ravenclaws – Puffs and Gryffs too nice/stupid/reckless. Usual gang – Marisa, Theo, Tracey, Daphne… maybe Blaise? Terry, definitely. Get him to speak to the other eagles.
But what the group really needed was a name.
"Leo!"
Leo heard his not-quite-brother's voice and hastily rolled up the parchment. "Yes, Draco?"
"Need some help with my homework. History of Magic."
"Nope. I only help my study partners."
"Can I be your study partner, then?"
"If you can tolerate a muggle-born enough to be in the same room as them without making any sarcastic comments, then yes."
"I'm afraid your Mudblood won't be around much longer after this year."
Leo, despite himself, flinched. He was able to control his reaction just enough to avoid arousing suspicion and asked cautiously, "What do you mean?"
"Well, Dad just told me he's done something that's going to kill Mudbloods."
Leo blinked. "That's a bit… extreme, isn't it?" Mentally, he added And I'd like to see the thing that'll take on Marisa… That was when the idea hit him. The perfect name.
Draco shrugged. "Anyway, can you help me with my homework?"
"Not now," replied Leo, "I'm doing something else."
"Fine," said Draco, glaring at Leo. "See you later."
Once Draco had gone, Leo carefully copied out his scribbled ideas onto a fresh piece of parchment. At the top, triple-underlined, he wrote The Snow Leopards.
Then he hurried off. He had an owl to send.