Chapter 6 Politically Not Correct

That afternoon once the tour ended, they learned that Professor Snape had been requested to teach not only the Hogwarts' students for most of their classes but also potions for the entire school and several Dark Arts classes. Proudly wearing her pressed Hogwarts' uniform, Hermione studied in the library to get a jump start on her classmates. As she relaxed in one of the lounge chairs, she found a copy of The Daily Prophet on the table, a taste of home provided by Durmstrang. One of the articles caught her eye: Voldemort – Return or Rumor. It reported rumors of Voldemort's return, but nothing concrete. However, it did mention the legacy of Muggle-born hatred created by Voldemort and politically enacted by Lucius Malfoy years ago. I wonder if Draco will continue his father's legacy of hatred. Even though Cornelius Fudge tried to remove those laws, he remained unsuccessful due to pure-blood opposition.

"If you want to know who your intellectual competition is, visit the library." Wearing a slate gray long coat with matching BDU's with his hair slightly spiked, Draco approached her, carrying some advanced potions and dark arts books. "Hermione, how have you been for all these years?"

"Very well," she replied. "How have you been?"

"I have been well. As you can see, I went to Durmstrang."

Even though I'm curious about what really happened when Malfoy Manor collapsed, I'll satisfy my curiosity elsewhere. "This is a strict school. How in the world do you get to wear those outfits and style your hair like that?"

"Karkaroff made a deal with me that if I remained the top student, created a new spell each year and mastered several advanced spells at an early age, I could wear what I wanted and style my hair as I pleased. However, during school functions I have to wear the uniform and follow the rules at all times. As you can see, he lost the bet. Needless to say, Karkaroff added several new rules once I started. He calls them the Draco amendments. Sometimes, I think he has a soft spot for me." From head to toe, he gazed at her immaculate uniform. "You seem to be just as much of a conformist as ever."

"We only just met six years ago. You couldn't possibly know that I was conformist then or now. Besides, what is so wrong with conformity? Aren't you a pure-blood traditionalist?"

"Indeed I am a traditionalist but not a conformist. If you choose conformity, there's nothing wrong with it. However, from your reaction to my outfit, I'm guessing you're too afraid to try something new. My other guess is that you're very pristine."

For some reason, she now felt ashamed of her V card. "I'll have you know I am far from pristine."

With gusto, he laughed. "We've established that I still know how to get your knickers in a twist. Also, we have scholarly ambition in common."

"Isn't the fact that I'm a Muggle-born an issue for you, or are you under orders to extend kindness? If that's the case, please let me know so we're not talking under false pretenses."

"Someone near and dear to me has pointed out the error of my ways. Admittedly, I have my doubts about many things, but I couldn't successfully debate certain beliefs of mine. Also, I'm breaking away from some of the outdated pure-blood traditions, but keeping the rest. And yes, I am under orders to extend hospitality and ensure your safety on behalf of Durmstrang. Because of your kindness all those years ago, I wanted to."

"Thank you. I'm glad I could be there for you then." Looking rather worried about her present company, Harry, Ginny and Ron entered the library and headed in her direction. Hermione motioned her friends closer. "Draco, these are my friends: Ginny and Ron Weasley and Harry Potter." Ginny and Ron stood back, not knowing how or if to approach him. In turn, Draco reciprocated those sentiments. Taking the initiative, Harry stepped forward despite wary looks from Ron and Ginny.

"Pleased to meet you," Harry said as he shook Draco's hand. Since everyone awkwardly stared at each other, Harry boldly ventured forth once more. "When we flew in, that was you standing on your broom flying?" Draco nodded. "Brilliant adding foot stirrups so you can, mind if I copy that?"

"Be my guest," Draco replied.

"Thanks," Harry said. "Your broom sort of looks like a spoon, why?"

"Well, if I'm standing I can bank a little better, but I discovered that by accident. You see, it was a joke by the team in my third year because I like to stir things up."

"No kidding," Harry remarked with a laugh. "How does one get to play Quidditch here?"

"You play?" Draco queried.

"I'm a seeker," Harry volunteered.

"I am as well. After classes tomorrow, you can practice with us. Nayden is the captain but I'm sure he wouldn't mind. All of you are welcome to watch if you don't play." A stilted smile crossed Draco's face. "You have my word that I will ensure your safety as guests of Durmstrang if there is any friction because of heritage issues."

Ron looked at him suspiciously. "How do we know this for certain? After all, we know your family's history of hatred towards Muggle-borns."

Draco looked at him incredulously. "I give you my word on my family's honor." Ron sighed in disbelief. "Well, I can see I've been duped. All of you mock pure-blood traditions, such as the word of honor. Maybe many of my brethren are correct. " Draco curtly nodded as he turned to leave. "The Quidditch field is open to visitors after practice around four. I'm sure you can find it on your own."

"Typical pure-blood arrogance," Ron muttered. "We should've expected it of a Malfoy."

A nefarious grin tugged on the left side of Draco's lips as he turned and pointed to Ron. "Before I go, I'm giving you an assignment: draw a list of politically correct and incorrect prejudices, and give an explanation as to why they are so. The reason I'm giving you the assignment is that you are holier than me. I'm sure you think that prejudice towards Muggle-borns is wrong but mocking pure-blood traditions is acceptable. By the way, you'll need to turn in your assignment to Professor Snape by tomorrow morning. As Spitze, I have the authority. Once I study it, I'm sure I can be as righteous as you are or at least pretend to be."

As Draco left, Ron muttered to the rest of the group. "He's as arrogant as they come."

"Yes, and devious too," Draco called from ahead of them.

Hermione looked at Ron irately before she left. "That is not an assignment I'll help you with or do for you."

Quickly, Hermione followed Draco into the hall. "Draco," she called but he kept walking. "Spitze Malfoy, I request an audience." She knew he would have to acknowledge an official request. Promptly, he stopped and glared at her. "I for one think that one's word of honor is a noble tradition that everyone should adopt. I'm sure that most pure-blood traditions are very much worth keeping, and shouldn't be forgotten. Not everyone shares Ron's sentiments. Your invitation to Quidditch practice was very much appreciated, especially by Harry. When can he practice with your team?"

Draco sighed heavily and thought a moment. "I'll meet him there at two. Will that be all?" Draco's jaw twitched.

"No it isn't. Thank you," she replied. After a small sigh, he left.