Well, Here is another Snakes and Ladders challenge story. I really should have included more of Helga in this story... Whatever.


Character: Helga Hufflepuff

Helga Hufflepuff was grading papers in her room when she heard a soft tapping on the door.

"Professor Hufflepuff? May I come in and speak with you for a moment?" said a muffled voice.

With the flick of her wand, Helga opened the door, revealing a tall, graceful figure that she instantly recognized as Helena Ravenclaw.

" Oh, come in my dear, don't be shy! Have a seat," Helga smiled.

The young woman sauntered over to a table near Helga's desk, and gingerly sat upon it.

"Well then, what brings you into my office today?" The professor began kindly.

Helena heaved a heavy sigh. "Oh professor, it's my mother again. She's always scolding me for doing poorly in my classes, although I work awfully hard. I shouldn't be in her house. I'll never live up to her expectations. Why, the only reason I got into Hogwarts is because she is my mother! It's just tiresome!" Helena rambled incessantly about many a thing, but Helga listened patiently through the duration of her rant.

When the young woman had finally calmed down, she waited for her professor to respond.

"I'll have to talk to Rowena, about her intensive pressure on you, but you must understand that that is just the way your mother acts. She wants the best for you and values your education above everything. Think of her lovely mantra; 'Wit beyond measure-'"

Helena cut get off, finishing the motto," 'Is a man's greatest treasure'. Oh, Professor, I would love to be as clever as my mother, but I'm afraid shan't ever be. I should never have come here. I have no skills and no friends. I will never succeed as a Ravenclaw." Helena bit her lip, trying to hold her tears in.

" Now, Helena, you must not speak that way! You are very smart, and you should never speak otherwise. If you ever feel lonely, do not hesitate to come to the Hufflepuff common room. I'm sure the other students would love to meet you," Helga reminded the girl, gently patting her head.

Helena gave her teacher one of her rare smiles, and dried her eyes on the sleeve of her robes.

" I would like that. Thank you, Professor, for letting talking with me."

She pulled to stout woman into a tight hug, before easing herself off the desk and heading out of the room. She stopped at the door way to give Helga a quick wave before walking away. After Helena had left, Helga heaved a heavy sigh. Although Helena was sweet and quite bright, her insecurity and high standards were destined to lead to her undoing.

That girl would certainly be the end to Rowena.


Spoiler Alert!

Helena DOES lead to Ravenclaw's death!