CHAPTER 13 – EMBRACING QUIDDITCH DREAMS

The days leading up to the Quidditch tryouts were filled with a palpable mix of anticipation and anxiety. Students gathered in small groups, discussing their chances of making it onto the team or speculating about who would fill the coveted keeper position left vacant by Oliver Wood. While the Weasley twins, Fred and George, were known for their comedic antics and pranks, their transformation on the Quidditch pitch was nothing short of remarkable. Their synchronized coordination and unwavering determination made them the natural choices for the beater positions, a decision that drew widespread approval from the Gryffindor house.

The chaser trio of Katie Bell, Alicia Spinnet, and Angelina Johnson demonstrated their exceptional teamwork during the tryouts. Their chemistry was apparent to anyone watching, as they effortlessly passed the Quaffle and scored goal after goal. Angelina, now wearing the captain's badge with pride, orchestrated the chaser unit with precision, ensuring their readiness for the upcoming season. Their years of collaboration and camaraderie gave them an edge, and their performance during the tryouts only solidified their places on the team.

Harry Potter, Gryffindor's star player, was as secure as ever in his role as the team's seeker. His talent on a broomstick was unparalleled, and his innate ability to spot the Golden Snitch quickly and capture it was a source of both pride and relief for his teammates. Despite the boastful claims of Cormac McLaggen, a confident sixth-year student, it became abundantly clear to everyone watching that no one could out-fly Harry. In every trial, he caught the Snitch with ease, leaving McLaggen to swallow his pride and concede defeat.

As the tryouts progressed, the attention of the spectators was focused on the keeper position, the only truly vacant spot on the team. The aspiring keepers, a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers, showcased their skills with fervor. The pressure was on, as they knew that becoming the new Gryffindor keeper meant shouldering the legacy of Oliver Wood, who had been an extraordinary talent and a passionate leader. The competition for this crucial role was intense, and Angelina was determined to find the best fit for the team, someone who could carry on the Gryffindor Quidditch tradition with honor.

Ron Weasley's selection as the new Gryffindor keeper marked the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream for him. His enthusiasm for Quidditch had been a constant throughout his time at Hogwarts, and his trial performance, while lacking in competition, demonstrated his capability in the role. It was a moment of personal triumph for Ron, and he was determined to make the most of this opportunity to represent Gryffindor on the Quidditch field.

While Ron's selection was significant, it was not the only surprise in the realm of Gryffindor Quidditch. The reserve team, a group that often flew under the radar, also had its share of unexpected developments. The usual suspects, such as Ginny Weasley and Dean Thomas, secured their places as reserves, which came as no surprise to those familiar with their skills and dedication. However, the revelation that Fleur Delacour, a Beauxbatons graduate and now a Hogwarts student, had tried out and earned a spot as a reserve chaser left many within the Gryffindor community raising their eyebrows.

This unexpected addition to the Gryffindor reserve team had its origins in a conversation that had taken place several days before the start of the school year. In the comfortable surroundings of the manor where Harry and Fleur had spent the summer, Fleur had voiced her curiosity about her future Hogwarts classmates. With a warm smile, Harry had turned his attention to his betrothed, sensing her nervousness and desire to connect with her fellow students.

Their discussion led to Fleur's genuine curiosity about the students she would soon share a school with. This conversation served as the catalyst for her decision to try out for the Gryffindor Quidditch team. Her performance during the tryouts had clearly impressed the team's captain, Angelina Johnson, leading to her inclusion as a reserve chaser. The unexpected addition of Fleur to the team not only added an element of surprise but also hinted at the potential for a stronger and more diverse Quidditch lineup for Gryffindor in the upcoming season.

Harry's thoughtful response to Fleur's question reflected his understanding of her concerns about fitting in with her future Hogwarts peers. Fleur had encountered her fair share of challenges when interacting with others her age, and her apprehension about being accepted at Hogwarts was natural.

Their conversation took a playful turn when Harry teasingly suggested that Fleur might end up in Slytherin, a house known for its cunning and ambition. Hermione, who had been listening to their discussion, quickly joined in, emphasizing the house's reputation for harboring bigots and urging Fleur to consider Gryffindor instead. Fleur, however, redirected the conversation, asking for more information about Gryffindor house, with a clear preference to avoid the topic of Slytherin.

Harry complied with Fleur's request and began providing insights into some of the Gryffindor students. He mentioned Fred and George, the mischievous twins who were known for their pranks and sense of humor. Additionally, he introduced Lee Jordan, a fellow seventh-year student who shared a close bond with the twins and was known for his laid-back and fun-loving nature.

Fleur, ever graceful and curious, raised an elegant eyebrow and inquired about Lee Jordan, wondering if she should be cautious of him possibly pranking her as well. It was evident that Fleur was keen on gathering as much information as possible to prepare for her upcoming life as a Hogwarts student. Harry's response to this question would offer further insights into the dynamics of Gryffindor house and its diverse group of students.

Harry reassured Fleur about Lee Jordan, describing him as a cool and laid-back individual who occasionally helped the twins plan pranks but generally steered clear of the mischief. He then introduced Angelina Johnson and Alicia Spinnet, who were both members of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, emphasizing that they were on the team alongside him and the twins.

Hermione, always attentive to linguistic details, couldn't resist correcting Harry's grammar when he said, "me and the twins." With an impish grin, Harry acknowledged Hermione's grammar correction, well aware of her linguistic precision. Hermione went on to offer Fleur reassurance about Angelina and Alicia, assuring her that they were very nice and suggesting that they would get along well.

Fleur, while appreciative of their reassurances, shared her concerns about making friends, expressing her unease given her history. Hermione, in her comforting and practical manner, advised Fleur to be herself and reassured her that she shouldn't face any trouble with jealous girlfriends, given her connection to Harry. This playful banter prompted Harry to playfully defend himself and claim that he was a "fine catch," to which Hermione responded with a teasing sing-song tone, suggesting that Harry was getting a rather large head.

Harry then steered the conversation back to the topic of flying, inquiring about Fleur's flying abilities. Fleur, with an air of dignified assurance, confirmed her flying skills, acknowledging that while she may not possess the death-defying abilities to out-fly a dragon, she considered herself to be pretty good on a broomstick. The exchange showcased the camaraderie and humor within their group, helping to ease any lingering concerns Fleur may have had about fitting in at Hogwarts.

Harry brushed off the comment and turned his attention back to the intriguing idea he had in mind. "Then why don't you try out for the Quidditch team?" Harry suggested, his excitement growing as he contemplated the possibility. Having Fleur on the team would not only allow them to spend more time together but also provide an opportunity to learn more about each other.

Hermione eagerly endorsed the idea, saying, "Harry, that's a great idea!"

However, Fleur seemed a bit perplexed by the suggestion.

Harry was quick to clarify, "I wouldn't exactly say that Angelina and Alicia are Quidditch fanatics, but they do enjoy the game. Trying out would earn their respect almost instantly. It's also a good way to meet other students, especially the two girls you'd be sharing a dorm with. Katie's on the team too. She's a year younger, but she's really nice. You could get to know her as well."

Fleur, now considering the possibility, replied, "Well, I have played a little in the Beauxbatons recreation league."

Harry's eyes lit up. "That would be perfect," he assured her. "Even if you're not an exceptional flyer, you're unlikely to replace any of the three starting chasers, but you could become an alternate and maybe participate in some of the games."

Fleur's smile conveyed her agreement, and it was evident that the Gryffindor Quidditch team would indeed have an additional contender during this year's tryouts.

As events unfolded, it became clear that Harry's advice had been remarkably prescient. Angelina praised Fleur's flying skills and unwavering determination, forging a connection between Fleur and the three chasers. Though they weren't yet close friends, they had certainly become strong acquaintances, and time spent together promised to further solidify their bonds. This was a heartwarming realization for Fleur, who had often felt lonely during her school experience.

Another intriguing development during that weekend involved Ron Weasley, and his actions couldn't escape the notice of those around him. Ron had taken it upon himself to earnestly court his chosen love interest, and while his intentions were sincere, his efforts were occasionally so overt that they provoked smirks and muted laughter from onlookers. His pursuit was a source of both amusement and genuine warmth within their group of friends.

The mischievous twins, who were well aware of Ron's intentions thanks to the book they had gifted him, took a step back to enjoy the spectacle. They delighted in poking fun at their brother whenever the opportunity arose. In contrast, Harry wisely kept his distance from the rather torturous courtship process. He knew that Ron had a short temper and suspected that if he found out Harry was not only aware of his attempts but also found them amusing, it could ignite a fiery reaction.

Hermione, the object of Ron's affection, found herself increasingly embarrassed by the situation. She was genuinely flattered by his feelings, but as time passed and she reflected on her conversation with Fleur, she couldn't help but acknowledge that the French witch had been absolutely correct in her assessment. Hermione and Ron were not a compatible match, and she had no interest in dating him.

The dilemma lay in how to communicate this to Ron in a way that would neither hurt his feelings nor lead to awkwardness. Hermione made attempts to gently convey her lack of romantic interest, but Ron either misinterpreted her signals or chose to disregard them. After enduring a few days of this ambiguity, Hermione concluded that the best course of action would be to wait for Ron to come to a point and then let him down gently. She resigned herself to enduring his attentions until he made his move.

Regarding the other topic of conversation she'd had with Fleur, Hermione had made a firm decision. She realized that entering into a relationship with Harry while he was already involved with Fleur was not a decision to be made hastily. Several important factors weighed on her mind: her own deep feelings for Harry, how her parents might react, and whether she could genuinely share her husband with another. Hermione knew that it would take considerable thought and reflection before she could even begin to determine her own desires in this complex situation. For now, she resolved to contemplate these matters and subtly conveyed to Fleur that she was considering the idea but required time to deliberate. Fleur, who held Hermione in high regard, assured her that she would not apply any pressure. Harry, however, remained blissfully unaware of this ongoing deliberation.

Harry's return to Hogwarts for his fifth year brought happiness, but the prospect of the first day of classes—and every subsequent Monday—was far from exciting. Not only did Mondays kick off with History of Magic, a class he deemed the most tedious, but they were followed by a double Potions class with Slytherin and, after lunch, Defense Against the Dark Arts with the newly appointed Professor Umbridge. Potions was always an engaging class with Snape, especially when Gryffindor was paired with Slytherin, but Defense, once one of Harry's favorites, now appeared to be just as challenging due to the changes in its teaching.

Following the History of Magic class, during which Harry had somehow managed to stay awake despite the overpowering urge to take a nap, Harry and his friends proceeded to make their way toward the dungeons, wondering what kind of challenges the Slytherin Potions master had in store for them this year.

Hermione, walking by Harry's side, attempted to ease his apprehension. "Harry, you need to relax a bit. Potions isn't all that terrible."

Neville chimed in with a somewhat forlorn expression, "Speak for yourself, Hermione. You're not Snape's favorite chew toy."

Hermione turned to Neville, offering him some words of encouragement. "You just need to follow the instructions, Neville. Your past difficulties in Potions happened because you got the steps in the wrong order."

Neville let out a derisive snort. "That would be good advice if Snape didn't loom over me like a dark cloud, making me nervous. I swear he does it on purpose."

Hermione, responding with a touch of primness, stated, "Don't be absurd, Neville."

Harry couldn't help but chime in, supporting Neville's assertion. "You know he does, Hermione. The bloke has a vendetta against me and Neville—you know he does."

Hermione, without missing a beat, casually corrected him. "Neville and I, Harry." In response, Harry winked at Neville. This exchange had become somewhat of a lighthearted game between them, though Hermione had been participating in it since they first met.

Deep in thought, Hermione appeared to be contemplating the matter. While part of her wanted to challenge Harry's claim, years of experiencing the professor's treatment of Harry suggested otherwise. Hermione, who was undeniably intelligent, couldn't deny the undeniable truth that Snape's actions bore the mark of unprofessionalism. The Potions master was undoubtedly a professional in the field, a true master of his subject. His knowledge was impeccable, and his teaching style, when not overshadowed by personal grudges, had the potential to be quite inspiring. However, his evident disdain for students not of his own house, and for a select few in particular, tainted his relationships with his students, making him come across as something of a bully.

"I've had my share of run-ins with him as well," added Ron, supporting the claim that Snape's behavior was far from exemplary.

Hermione sighed, acknowledging the understatement. "He is a little... strict."

Harry chimed in, his voice laced with frustration. "Hermione, I could tolerate strictness. It's the unfairness, the bullying, and the blatant intimidation that I find particularly objectionable. The man may be skilled, there's no denying that, but he still behaves like a child. I'd bet he wouldn't act this way if my parents were alive."

Hermione nodded in agreement. "You're absolutely right, Harry. But for now, we'd better stop talking. We're here."

Harry sighed as he prepared himself for what was to come. "Well, the Snape-free summer was nice while it lasted."

As they entered the classroom, they were relieved to find the Potions master still absent, and only a few Slytherins had arrived. Harry took a seat near the middle of the classroom and began arranging his books and supplies. He knew that being ready for the lecture, despite his feelings about Snape, would at least earn him a bit of grudging respect from the professor. It was a small victory that Harry was willing to claim.

For a few minutes before the other students trickled in, Harry and his friends engaged in low-voiced conversation about various school topics, including Defense Against the Dark Arts. Harry had already shared Jean-Sebastian's warning about Professor Umbridge on the Hogwarts Express, but the specifics of her methods and objectives were still shrouded in uncertainty. They had decided to stick together and support one another, ensuring they gave Umbridge no reason to single them out, even if she made it difficult for them in class.

Moments before the start of class, Malfoy and his cronies entered the room and settled in at the back. In the two days since the train confrontation, Harry had encountered Draco several times, and the blond Slytherin had refrained from baiting his favorite target, raising Harry's hopes that he might have finally gotten through to the young Malfoy. Unfortunately, those hopes were dashed the moment Draco spoke.

"Hey, Scarhead, congratulations on your engagement," he taunted.

Harry chose to ignore him, determining that as long as Draco refrained from disparaging Fleur, he could say whatever he pleased.

Pansy Parkinson, never one to miss an opportunity to be cruel, sneered, "Good thing he landed a betrothal. No one would have him otherwise."

Harry couldn't help but chuckle at Pansy's ignorance. If anything, his unwanted fame as the Boy-Who-Lived made it easy to attract a girlfriend, provided he was interested in shallow relationships with girls who sought nothing more than his celebrity.

Draco persisted, aiming another dig at Harry, "It seems like even the bollocking I gave you on the Express hasn't managed to knock some sense into your empty head, Bad Faith."

Harry remained focused on his preparations for the class, not giving Draco the satisfaction of a reaction. He was determined not to be drawn into a pointless exchange with his longtime rival.

Harry wasn't about to let Draco's taunts go unanswered. With a piercing glare, he turned his attention to Parkinson. "And as for you, Parkinson," he continued, addressing the girl, "even a betrothal contract wouldn't be enough to secure an attachment for you. Your family would probably have to pay someone to take you off their hands, and even then, they might need to throw a bag over your pug face."

Parkinson reddened, clearly incensed and struggling to formulate a retort when Draco, not one to be silenced, rejoined the fray. "I hear you're claiming that the Dark Lord is back. Has he come after you yet? I bet you're crying in your bed at night, wondering when he'll finally show up to teach you a lesson."

Harry, unfazed, retorted with a sly grin. "Well, I've heard that he hasn't been able to go anywhere. The rumor is that your lips have been magically attached to his arse all summer."

Infuriated, Draco drew his wand and launched a hex at Harry. Anticipating the Slytherin's move, Harry deflected the hex effortlessly and responded with a stinging hex of his own, striking Draco in the chest. The Slytherin let out a girlish yelp of pain, much to the amusement of the Gryffindors, while the other Slytherins, for the most part, observed the scene with impassive expressions.

Snape's entrance into the classroom coincided with the heated exchange. He wasted no time in chastising Harry. "Potter!" he barked. "That will be five points from Gryffindor and detention for hexing a classmate."

Harry leaned over to Hermione, whispering with a smirk, "Don't look now, but His Lugubriousness has arrived."

Hermione stifled a soft giggle at Harry's remark, cleverly masked by Ron's indignant protestations.

Ron challenged Snape, "What about Malfoy, sir? He started it and threw the first curse."

Snape turned his menacing gaze on Ron. "Perhaps you'd like to join your friend in detention for lying, Weasley?"

Neville, in an unusual display of courage in front of Snape, spoke up, "He wasn't lying, sir."

Snape regarded Neville with disdain, as if he were nothing more than a bothersome insect. "I saw only Potter's actions. Any further discussion on this matter will result in more points deducted and more detentions assigned."

Harry, preferring not to escalate the situation further, fell silent. He contented himself with sitting back in his chair, directing a fierce glare at the smirking Malfoy. He mentally reviewed the confrontation and pondered whether it had been orchestrated from the beginning, although he doubted that Snape would conspire with a group of students to impose a detention on another student, especially when he was perfectly capable of handling such matters himself. If Harry had to guess, he suspected that Snape had been lurking just outside the classroom door, waiting for an opportune moment, aware of the deep-seated animosity between the two boys. He resolved to think further about the incident and find a way to turn the tables on the Slytherins.

The remainder of the Potions class proceeded in a fairly standard fashion. Harry, thanks to being Hermione's lab partner and his newfound dedication to his studies, successfully brewed the assigned potion. He even managed to coax a begrudging "acceptable" evaluation from Snape, though he suspected that the professor would have preferred plucking out his own eyes to giving praise to the son of his adversary. Hermione's potion, as usual, was impeccable. Ron and Neville, while not achieving the exact shade of the potion Snape had expected, still earned acceptable grades for their efforts.

Exiting the Potions laboratory, Harry took care to ignore the persistent heckling from the Slytherins as he walked away from the classroom, his mind still grappling with the issue of Snape's unprofessional conduct.

Hermione, adopting a gentle tone, addressed Harry. "You really should know better than to respond to Malfoy. Can't you just ignore him like you're doing now?"

Harry pondered his own question. "Do you think he waited outside the classroom to catch me doing something?"

Ron, sporting his usual pessimism, responded, "Doesn't he always?"

Expecting Hermione to dismiss his theory, Harry was taken aback when she gave it serious consideration before replying, "He does seem to have impeccable timing, doesn't he?"

Harry let out a frustrated grumble. "That, and he's a bigoted, unprofessional, childish git who can't see past the fact that I'm James Potter's son."

Hermione, however, pointed out, "You seemed to take it rather calmly when he assigned you detention."

Harry nonchalantly shrugged in response. "He's done it before, and he'll do it again. The more I protest, the worse it gets, so why bother?"

"But it's not right!" Hermione insisted.

"Tell it to Snape," Harry retorted. He then playfully put his arm around Hermione's shoulders, deliberately disregarding Ron's disapproving look. "Look, Hermione, you're right about not letting Malfoy provoke me into a response. We promised Jean-Sebastian that we wouldn't let Umbridge trick us into doing something she could use against us, and I went and let Draco do the same. I'll have to apply that same principle to Malfoy and Snape."

Hermione's proud and slightly mischievous expression elicited a grin from Harry. "Maybe it is. I suppose we all have to grow up at some point."

Ron, not privy to their earlier conversation, couldn't help but feel left out. He hastened to catch up to them, demanding, "All right, you two, what's so funny?"

Harry refrained from rolling his eyes, even though he'd previously assured Ron that he harbored no romantic intentions toward Hermione. It seemed that Ron still regarded them with suspicion whenever they exchanged even a fleeting glance. Harry believed that Ron would have a better chance with Hermione if he were less tense and less jealous of her interactions with others.

Hermione, with a subtle yet apologetic glance at Harry, slipped out from under his arm. Harry had to fight back a laugh at her attempt to alleviate Ron's concern. It was almost comical.

"We were just discussing how to deal with Snape and Malfoy," Hermione explained to Ron.

Ron turned his attention to Harry. "So, what's your plan? Banishing them through a wall? Or hexing their bits off?"

Harry shook his head with a smirk. "Nah, I'll just ignore them. It's what Jean-Sebastian told us to do with Umbridge—why shouldn't it work for the bat and the ferret?"

Although Ron appeared somewhat skeptical—ignoring Malfoy had never been the primary strategy before—he kept his reservations to himself. The four friends made their way into the Great Hall for lunch.

Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Fleur joined Fleur's companions at the Gryffindor table for lunch. Harry took a seat next to Fleur, with Hermione on his other side. They chatted about their morning classes, and although the twins inquired about their Potions class, Harry downplayed it, saying it had been just another potions lesson. Unfortunately, it was the truth—Snape's behavior that morning had been disappointingly typical.

In the afternoon, they faced the dreaded Ministry-appointed Umbridge. Even before the class began, an air of apprehension hung over the joint Hufflepuff and Gryffindor class.

Hermione couldn't help but find it somewhat absurd. None of them knew Umbridge personally, and most had little idea of what to expect from her. Even her words at the feast had provided scant information about her teaching style for the year, and they knew nothing about her methods.

The assigned textbook wasn't the best either—it was vague and lacking in detail, which was concerning, especially since this was an OWL year. But the textbook alone didn't explain the nervous tension that seemed to permeate the class.

The prevailing nervousness seemed even more pronounced than it had been in previous years, surpassing the first year jitters and the fourth year uncertainty when an unpredictable yet highly decorated Auror had been their instructor. The widespread acknowledgment of Voldemort's return, despite the Minister's persistent denials, contributed to the apprehensive atmosphere. However, Hermione attributed most of the unease to Umbridge's reputation as a fervent supporter of the Minister and a cruel critic of anything non-Pureblood.

As the bell rang, the door to Umbridge's office creaked open, and she made her entrance, offering a saccharine smile—blatantly insincere—to the assembled students. Hermione stifled an inner snort; the woman herself presented no obvious threat. How could she? Unless one's greatest fear was short, plump women dressed head to toe in tastelessly pink attire, she hardly came across as intimidating. In Hermione's eyes, Umbridge resembled a pink Care Bear more than a Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor.

"Hem, hem, welcome to Defense Against the Dark Arts class," she purred upon reaching the desk at the front of the room. "I thank you all for being punctual. I trust you're all prepared to learn as never before!"

Privately, Hermione had to resist the urge to gape at Umbridge as if she were dim-witted. It was an OWL year, and they had shown up to learn, after all. She had a hunch that Harry might be suppressing a snicker at her side, but when she stole a glance at him, his face remained composed and controlled. An affectionate warmth welled up within her as she contemplated the events of the summer and Harry's growth and maturation since fourth year. The old Harry would have likely already become impatient with Umbridge's prattle.

Umbridge surveyed the room, her gaze pausing briefly on Harry before moving on. While her expression remained unchanged, Hermione could almost sense the underlying malevolence. It baffled her how something so pink and fluffy could be so sinister, and this thought nearly caused her to suppress another laugh. She hoped Harry could maintain his temper because this woman was bound to test it.

"Now, class, I understand that your education in this subject has been somewhat inconsistent," Umbridge began. "We at the Ministry are well aware that no professor has managed to stay in this position for more than one year in quite some time."

As the class grumbled their reluctant agreement, Umbridge smiled and continued. "This year will be different. The finest minds at the Ministry have worked tirelessly over the summer to design a curriculum that will provide you with the best education while ensuring it takes place in a safe, Ministry-approved environment. Allow me to share with you the objectives for this course in the upcoming year."

She waved her wand, and a short list appeared on the blackboard.

Understanding the principles of defensive magic.

Recognizing situations in which defensive magic can be legally used.

Applying the use of defensive magic in practical contexts.

Hermione wondered about Umbridge's true intentions but obediently transcribed the points onto her parchment, as did the rest of the class.

"Now, I assume each of you has a copy of Defensive Magical Theory by Wilbert Slinkhard?" Umbridge inquired once the sound of quills scratching had ceased.

A low chorus of agreement responded to her question, prompting a frown. "Perhaps your previous professors ran their classes rather laxly, but in my day, when we wanted to speak in class, we raised our hands. When a professor poses a question, we respond with 'Yes, Professor Umbridge,' or 'No, Professor Umbridge.' Shall we try that again, then?"

The material was dry, to say the least. It was even drier than Hermione's least favorite subject, History of Magic. In fact, it was so dry that she couldn't help but wonder if she was the only person in the world who had ever managed to stay awake during a History of Magic class. The text seemed almost hypnotic in its dullness. The author, who might have had a competent knowledge of defensive magic in theory, had likely never cast a defensive spell in his life. The text was filled with theory, conjecture, and anecdotal accounts of potential uses for defensive spells. In essence, it was utterly useless.

Umbridge conducted the class with a level of formality Hermione hadn't experienced since her second-grade class in her local primary school. Students were required to raise their hands to speak, and Umbridge insisted on being addressed as "Professor Umbridge." It wasn't the formality itself that bothered Hermione, as she generally referred to her professors with the title, but rather the sense that Umbridge was trying to establish her authority over the class, and not just because she was the teacher.

Despite the mind-numbingly dull material, Hermione kept her attention focused. She was determined to do well in the class, not just for herself, but also because she knew Harry and the others needed a good grade to bolster their chances in the OWLs. As she copied down notes and listened to Umbridge drone on, she couldn't help but feel a growing sense of dread. It was clear that this woman was not interested in teaching practical defensive magic. Instead, she seemed more concerned with enforcing Ministry-approved ideologies and agendas.

As the class came to an end, Hermione couldn't shake the feeling that this would be a long and frustrating year for her and her friends.

Umbridge's response was as infuriating as it was condescending. "My dear, there's no rush to start using magic. We must have a thorough understanding of the theory before we can move on to the practical aspects. After all, we want to ensure that students know when and where defensive magic is appropriate and legal."

Hermione pressed further. "Of course, but surely we should also learn how to perform these spells, understand the proper wand movements, and practice them. That's the essence of a Defense Against the Dark Arts class, isn't it?"

Umbridge's smile remained fixed as she replied, "Oh, we'll get to that eventually, but for now, we must focus on the theory. In due time, we'll progress to the practical. We must prioritize safety, you see."

Hermione was growing more frustrated by the second, but she maintained her composure and lowered her hand. She could tell that Umbridge had no intention of providing the students with a well-rounded education in defensive magic. It was clear that the Ministry's agenda was to control what the students learned and how they learned it. Hermione couldn't help but feel that this class would be more about indoctrination and control than about preparing students to defend themselves against dark forces.

Umbridge let out a distinctly exasperated sigh, her features contorting into a disapproving frown. "Are you a Ministry-accredited instructor, Miss…?"

"Granger," Hermione responded, her voice carrying an air of curiosity. "And no, I am not. I'm simply curious, that's all."

While Umbridge maintained a suspicious gaze, her response retained the same condescending tone as before. "Well then, the answer is quite straightforward, Miss Granger. We will not, in fact, be engaging in spellcasting during this class, as it is deemed unnecessary."

The faces of the students gathered in the room darkened in response to the unsettling implication.

"But Professor, isn't practical application in Defense the most critical aspect?" questioned Susan Bones, her voice laced with a touch of concern.

Hermione, while not particularly acquainted with Susan, recognized her as a Hufflepuff who tended to keep a low profile and was known for her diligence and intellect. What was even more intriguing was the knowledge that she enjoyed a certain level of protection, given that her aunt held the prestigious position of Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Hermione couldn't fathom why Umbridge would risk incurring the wrath of the DMLE head unless Susan had committed a significant transgression.

"Using these spells could result in injuries, Miss Bones," Umbridge responded, her tone unyielding.

"Wouldn't we be at a greater risk if we were to face a dark curse without having practiced the proper counter?" Ron's inquiry resonated with a hint of urgency.

Umbridge, with her sickly smile still intact, shifted her attention to Ron. "Now, where on earth would you come into contact with a dark curse, Mr. Weasley? Do you doubt the safety of our esteemed institution?"

Harry and Hermione exchanged a subtly amused glance. Given the tumultuous events that had unfolded during their years at Hogwarts, they were well aware of the precarious nature of the school. However, mentioning this fact to Umbridge would likely result in a contentious confrontation, so they wisely chose to remain silent.

"Well, I must say, the school itself is safe," Ron conceded, though only a few of his closest friends could detect the ironic undertone in his voice. "But what if I were to be attacked in Diagon Alley?"

"In such a case, Mr. Weasley, you should promptly contact the Aurors," Umbridge responded, her tone unyielding. "Is that not their primary purpose?"

"To apprehend criminals, perhaps," Susan Bones interjected with a steely resolve in her voice. "But Aurors cannot be omnipresent. If one were to wait for the Aurors to arrive at the scene, the danger might have already claimed its victim."

Umbridge maintained her assurance, albeit with a tinge of condescension. "What a vivid imagination you possess, Miss Bones. I can assure you that Diagon Alley, as well as every other wizarding enclave, is entirely secure. There is no need for undue fear."

"Excuse me, Professor, but that contradicts what my aunt has consistently stated. On numerous occasions, she has emphasized that there are far too few Aurors to adequately safeguard the populace and that it is every citizen's right and responsibility to protect themselves. After all, we all carry a potentially lethal weapon on our person at all times." Susan's assertion was laced with a tone of conviction.

A fleeting but unmistakable flicker of annoyance swept across Umbridge's countenance, though she swiftly concealed it. It was evident that the niece of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement's head had effortlessly dismantled her arguments, and this did not sit well with her.

"A deadly weapon? What preposterous notion are you insinuating?" Umbridge retorted.

"A wand," Harry's voice resounded in the room, firm and unyielding.

"Pardon me, Mr. Potter?"

With the same calm countenance he had maintained since Umbridge's entrance, Harry met her gaze. "The weapon Susan alluded to, Professor, is none other than a wand. Each one of us carries a tool capable of a wide array of effects – from bludgeoning and stinging to causing itching, regurgitating slugs, and a plethora of other unpleasant consequences. Moreover, as we witnessed with the impostor Professor Moody last year, it can also be employed for the purpose of torture, murder, and compelling someone to do your bidding."

"Are you suggesting you have intentions of carrying out such sinister acts, Mr. Potter?"

Hermione nearly couldn't contain her amusement at the sheer foolishness of the question. Did Umbridge truly believe that Harry would give her a self-incriminating answer? The woman's subtlety seemed to be on par with a high-speed Bludger.

"Of course not, Professor," Harry responded evenly. "I'm merely highlighting the theoretical capabilities of a tool that each of us carries with us at all times."

Umbridge shook her head, her expression now tinged with a semblance of sorrow. "And that is precisely the point I am attempting to make. It is quite evident that your past experiences with your Defense Against the Dark Arts professor have skewed your perspective. Your wand should not be viewed as a weapon – such a notion is suitable only for hooligans and misfits. Instead, you should regard it as a remarkable tool capable of performing extraordinary feats of magic."

"Oh, I absolutely do, Professor," Harry responded with a feigned earnestness that bordered on theatrical. Hermione struggled to contain her laughter at the way Harry was subtly taunting Umbridge while maintaining an innocent facade.

Once more, it became apparent, judging from the deeply disappointed expression she wore, that Harry's concise response was irritating Umbridge. It was clear that she had been dispatched to the school with the intention of undermining Harry, and perhaps Dumbledore, but she was evidently grappling with how to carry out this mission effectively, especially since Harry was not behaving in the manner she had anticipated. Hermione felt a renewed sense of pride in Harry. She wasn't sure what underhanded schemes Umbridge had in store, but Harry was certainly not making it easy for her.

"But Professor," Parvati Patil interjected with an innocently perky tone, "you just mentioned that there's no danger in the magical world. Shouldn't that imply that there are no 'hooligans' and 'misfits' to be concerned about?"

The entire class had to make a concerted effort to stifle their laughter at the open challenge Miss Patil had presented to the professor. Although Umbridge's eyes momentarily narrowed, her saccharine smile never wavered.

"If you wish to speak, Miss Patil, kindly raise your hand. I will not tolerate this class descending into a chaotic cacophony of students clamoring for attention," Umbridge admonished.

"In response to your query, I did indeed mention that the wizarding world is secure. However, I also emphasized that if you should happen upon a perilous situation, it would be prudent to allow the Aurors to manage it. After all, they are the trained professionals."

Hermione could almost hear the collective eye-rolling among her classmates in response to Umbridge's explanation. The professor evidently held a remarkably low opinion of them, considering she expected them to be swayed by her transparent attempts at obfuscation.

"But Professor," Dean Thomas chimed in, "this is our OWL year. How are we expected to pass our practical exams if we don't get any practice with the spells?"

"Mr. Thomas, kindly raise your hand before speaking!" Umbridge's response was tinged with a noticeable degree of exasperation.

Dean promptly raised his hand and waved it ostentatiously, then repeated his question once Umbridge gestured for him to proceed.

"There will be an ample amount of theoretical knowledge throughout the year, and when the time comes for your practical exams, you should find yourselves adequately prepared," Umbridge reiterated.

"So you expect us to perform the spells in an examination setting without ever having practiced them before?" Justin Finch-Fletchley, who had remained silent until this point, questioned with a hint of incredulity.

"Is that an issue?" Umbridge responded.

"Casting a spell without any prior practice?" Ron interjected. "Indeed, it is!"

Murmurs of agreement reverberated from all corners of the classroom.

"It usually requires some time and practice for me to properly cast a spell, and I'm certainly not alone in this," Ron continued, his tone resolute. "After all, not all of us can be Harry Potter."

A gleam of interest entered Umbridge's eyes as she directed her attention towards Harry. Hermione could sense that Harry would likely want to give Ron a playful scolding for needlessly drawing attention to him.

"So, not everyone can be like Mr. Potter, can they? I must admit, I had no knowledge of the presence of a prodigious student among us," Umbridge remarked.

Harry, however, shook his head, deflecting the accolades. "I'm not a prodigy, Professor. I'm just a student who's working hard to study, get the best grades I can, and enjoy some fun while at school."

"Don't be fooled by his modesty," Dean chimed in. "Harry's better at Defense Against the Dark Arts than all the rest of us combined."

Seamus, with a whispered stage voice and a pointed glare at Harry, added, "Don't make his head any bigger than it already is." Since they had returned for the school year, Seamus had appeared somewhat cooler toward Harry, a subtle shift that hadn't gone unnoticed.

"Hands, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Finnegan," Umbridge said absently, her gaze still fixed on Harry. "Is this true, Mr. Potter?"

Harry's response was measured and composed. "I'm not particularly inclined to engage in self-promotion, Professor Umbridge—I'd rather avoid boasting about myself, if that's alright. Defense Against the Dark Arts is a subject I excel in, and I tend to grasp spells quite quickly, but I'm certain there are other students with similar abilities."

"And did you master the lessons from last year as effectively as you usually do?"

Harry paused and looked up, his hand resting on his chin in a contemplative manner. "Well, we didn't attempt to cast the Unforgivables, of course. I suppose there are lines even Barty Crouch Jr. wouldn't dare to cross. But regardless of your opinions about the man, he was an effective instructor, perhaps because of his intimate familiarity with the dark arts, given his prior allegiance to the Dark Lord."

Umbridge's previously feigned sweetness had now completely vanished from her demeanor. Hermione couldn't help but feel that, based on the intensity of her gaze fixed on Harry, if looks could kill, he would have been bleeding on the floor by now. However, she found herself unable to object to what he had said.

"You do assert the return of a Dark Lord, do you not, Mr. Potter?" Umbridge inquired.

Hermione held her breath, recognizing that Umbridge was not only openly provoking Harry but also attempting to push his buttons by insinuating that he was either fabricating stories or delusional about Voldemort's return. Given the Ministry's stance that the Dark Lord hadn't returned, it was evident what she was aiming for.

"I've shared my account, Professor Umbridge, and I don't see any reason to keep discussing it. Clearly, with your trust in Minister Fudge and Madam Bones, they are managing the situation. As a mere student, I don't believe it's my place to get further involved."

"Mr. Potter, there's no situation to manage because the Dark Lord has not returned."

"In that case, I have nothing to be concerned about," Harry replied with a nonchalant shrug.

She continued to fix Harry with a slightly perturbed look, but it lasted only for a brief moment before she once again assumed her facade of sweetness.

"If you possess the level of skill that the rest of the class seems to believe, then you shouldn't encounter any difficulties with the Defense Against the Dark Arts OWL examination," Umbridge remarked.

"I can't say for certain, Professor," Harry replied with an amiable smile. "We've only just begun the year, and this is only our first class."

As Harry's smile grew even more radiant, Hermione discerned a touch of cunning in his eyes. "If you would like me to offer an evaluation of your teaching at the end of the year, I'd be more than willing to do so. However, at this early stage with limited practical experience, I don't think I can provide a fair judgment."

Umbridge's eyes widened in surprise. Clearly, she had not anticipated such a response, and the notion of a student reviewing a teacher's performance was a foreign concept in the magical world. Nevertheless, Umbridge merely averted her gaze and returned to her desk, her disappointment evident.

"Now, if the disruptions have concluded, I believe we should resume our lesson. I trust that you all have your textbooks open?" Umbridge continued.

The remainder of the class transpired in a manner quite consistent with its initial phase, with Umbridge reading passages from the textbook while elaborating on certain points. Unfortunately, her insights were insipid, occasionally bordering on outright idiocy. At times, she merely parroted the exact content of the book, altering the wording slightly to give the impression of expanding upon the subject. It became evident that the woman lacked any significant depth of knowledge and, by extension, how little her class would contribute to their preparation for the upcoming OWL exams. With a worthless textbook and an inept professor, this class had the potential to surpass even the disappointment that Lockhart's class had been.

What Hermione couldn't quite determine was what course of action to take in response. Should they consider bringing in Professor Moody for practical training? But that would undoubtedly attract the attention, and likely the disapproval, of the esteemed Umbridge, who would almost certainly object and might use it as ammunition for whatever dubious plans she still harbored. It was undoubtedly a conundrum that warranted careful consideration.

Finally, the class came to an end. The four friends exited the room and waited in the hallway, allowing the Hufflepuffs and the rest of the Gryffindors to disperse.

"Can you believe that woman?" Neville began in a hushed tone.

"I'm more concerned about Harry," Hermione replied. "I'm proud of you, Harry—you endured her insults and kept your composure."

Harry gave a nonchalant shrug before flashing a grin at Hermione. "I won't deny I was tempted. But she's so full of it that I thought it'd be a waste of my time to engage in her little game."

"Good on you, mate," Ron chimed in, stepping forward and putting his arm around Hermione's shoulders.

Hermione managed to resist the urge to roll her eyes at Ron's not-so-subtle gesture, gently disengaging his arm from her shoulders. Ron had been getting increasingly overt in his affections since their return to school, and while it wasn't particularly challenging to keep him at bay, it was starting to become somewhat irksome.

"It's really not a big deal," Harry continued. "I appreciate your support, but, as Jean-Sebastian wisely pointed out, she's just not worth the effort."

Harry's tone then turned more resolute. "However, I'll make one thing clear," he added. "If all she does is try to provoke me, I can handle it. But I won't stand for, and won't let my friends endure, any form of abuse from her or anyone else, just like I told Malfoy."

His friends murmured their agreement to his sentiments, and they headed off toward Gryffindor Tower. Hermione was of two minds about Harry's declaration. On one hand, she understood the importance of standing up for each other and resisting bullies. Yet, she couldn't help but feel that Umbridge wasn't worth the trouble, and Harry could end up causing himself problems by pushing back against her.

Then again, he wouldn't be the Harry they knew if he simply allowed Umbridge to walk all over him. His innate sense of nobility wouldn't permit it.

Later that evening, the friends gathered in the cozy Gryffindor common room. Fleur was seated beside Harry, with Hermione on his other side. Ron had positioned himself in a nearby armchair, doing his best to stay close to Hermione. Neville and the twins sat on the other side of a table from them, and the rest of the chasers were nearby. In theory, they were all reviewing their schoolwork and textbooks for the next day, but in practice, very little studying was taking place. The group was far more engrossed in discussing the day's events.

When the older students heard about the happenings in the Defense Against the Dark Arts class, there were collective groans and laments about enduring Professor Umbridge for an entire year. However, just as many smirks emerged, appreciating how Harry had handled the situation.

Fleur, on the other hand, seemed particularly intrigued when they recounted the events of the morning's Potions class. Harry, although he still held a deep loathing for Snape, brushed off the episode as if it were merely a joke. And to him, it was, as he had dealt with Snape's behavior since he first started at Hogwarts.

However, Fleur didn't view it in quite the same light.

"Is this how the Potions professor typically behaves?" Her tone took on a steely edge, and her expression hardened.

"Don't fret, Fleur, I've gotten used to Snape," Harry assured her.

Throwing her hands up in exasperation, Fleur fixed Harry with an intense gaze. "That's not the point, Harry. A professor has a duty to their students. They should be fair, teach their subject in an understandable manner, assist those in need, and, ultimately, guide their students to success. It appears to me that Snape is quite the poor teacher."

Hermione let out a sigh. "Actually, Snape is a skilled teacher. He has a deep understanding of potions and is adept at explaining how various ingredients interact to produce the desired effects. That is, when he chooses to do so."

"Yeah, but too bad he's such a failure as a human being," Harry quipped with a snort.

"Is he singling you out alone?"

Harry exchanged a meaningful glance with Neville. "He clearly favors his own house. It's always felt like Neville and I are targeted more often than not."

"Do you know why?" Fleur inquired.

"As for me, it's probably because I'm dreadful at potions," Neville admitted with a tinge of dejection in his voice.

"Have you ever attempted to brew a potion without that tormentor hovering over you?" Fleur questioned Neville, her tone gentle.

An embarrassed Neville merely shrugged his shoulders in response.

"And you, Harry?"

Leaning back on the sofa, Harry pondered the question for a while. Fleur had a valid point about Neville's performance, and he recognized that, although he might never become a potion master, his newfound confidence nurtured by the love of his family had instilled a sense of determination to improve, which would likely have an impact on his potion-making skills.

More than the aspect of potion-making, Harry appreciated this side of Fleur that he had never seen before. Not only did she radiate a righteous anger and a commitment to a cause, but it also enhanced her already captivating beauty in his eyes.

"In my case, I think it's more about my parents than me," Harry eventually replied. "Sirius told me that my dad and Snape were rivals during school, and their rivalry sometimes escalated to extremes. As for my mum, apparently, she and Snape were close friends before coming to Hogwarts, but they grew apart over the years, and Snape held my father responsible for their estrangement."

"So, a professor at what is widely regarded as the premier magical school in Europe, if not the world, essentially targets three-quarters of the student body and singles out specific students for special treatment. This is bullying, Harry. Normally, students should only have to worry about bullying from other students, not from their teachers."

Harry, along with the others, nodded in agreement. Fleur had spoken nothing but the truth.

"Have you considered appealing the detention and point deductions?" Fleur inquired.

Harry looked at her with a blank expression, while Hermione appeared surprised. "Appealed?" Hermione asked. "You can do that?"

Fleur rolled her eyes. "Of course, you can. Surely you have such a process in the Muggle school system as well?"

"Well, yes, but..." Hermione's response trailed off.

Harry could sense Hermione's hesitation, understanding her reluctance to speak. Even many Purebloods who had no interaction with the Muggle world knew that the magical society lagged socially behind their Muggle counterparts. However, it was one thing to grasp this concept and another to have it pointed out to you.

Fortunately, either Fleur didn't comprehend Hermione's apprehension or simply chose to overlook it. "Hermione, I would be very surprised if there wasn't an appeals process at Hogwarts. We certainly have one at Beauxbatons. Though we don't have the house system and house points like Hogwarts, I've seen the appeals process used to challenge detentions or even essay results. There must be something similar here."

"I've never heard of one," Angelina added.

Many of the students who had been eavesdropping on the conversation murmured their agreement. It was widely believed that if such a process were known, it would have been utilized long ago to contest Snape's mistreatment of Gryffindors.

Intrigued, Harry wondered whether such a process existed at Hogwarts and, if so, whether it could be employed to alleviate the constant harassment he endured from Snape. It seemed worth investigating.

"Alright," Harry finally agreed, in response to Fleur's unspoken question. "I'll talk to Dumbledore tomorrow and discuss what happened in Potions today."

A radiant smile greeted his decision. "Good choice, Harry. I'll go with you. If Dumbledore is uncooperative, we can always involve my father."

Harry furrowed his brow. "I'm not sure we need to involve your father, Fleur. Like I said, I've managed Snape for the past four years, and I'm confident I can continue to do so."

"But you shouldn't have to, and you don't need to," Fleur insisted, giving his hand an affectionate pat. "Snape's bullying behavior undermines the entire educational process, and a generation of Hogwarts students has been deprived of the proper Potions experience due to his actions. This needs to be rectified.

"Besides, you now have my family to help watch over you. You don't need to go through this alone."

Harry contemplated this issue deeply. He had always been self-sufficient and accustomed to looking out for himself, especially given the Dursleys' utter lack of care for his well-being. Even after arriving at Hogwarts and making friends who would support him, it wasn't the same as having a parent looking out for him. Surprisingly, he found that he appreciated this feeling. It was comforting to know he was no longer alone.

Welcome to PEVERELL_LEGACY on P.A.T.R.E.O.N . This is where the magic happens, where stories come to life, and where you get the first glimpse of what's next.

FOR SUPPORT AND EARLY ACCESS TO NEW CHAPTERS JOIN US ON P.A.T.R.E.O.N. PEVERELL_LEGACY

NOTE: I WILL PUBLIC NEXT UPDATE OF STORIES ON P.A.T.R.E.O.N A DAY BEFORE RELEASING ON FANFICTION AND AO3 YOU CAN JOIN P.A.T.R.E.O.N. FOR FREE TO READ A DAY EARLY.