Hermione rose early, despite the restless night that had left her feeling drained. She dressed quickly in her Gryffindor robes, trying to push aside the lingering memories of her dreams. The new day was a welcome distraction, and she was determined to face it head-on, Mina Delacour's mask firmly in place.
Marlene was already up and ready, bouncing with energy as if she hadn't stayed up late the night before. She gave Hermione a bright smile as they headed downstairs. "Come on, Mina. Let's get some breakfast before the boys eat everything."
Hermione forced a smile, grateful for Marlene's company. Together, they joined Lily, Mary, and a few other seventh-year girls as they made their way to the Great Hall. The castle was buzzing with the start-of-term excitement, though Hermione noticed a few students grumbling under their breath.
"Can't believe we've got classes already," a boy from Hufflepuff muttered as he passed. "It's Friday, for Merlin's sake."
"Couldn't they have just given us one more day?" groaned another student, his voice thick with indignation.
Hermione listened to the complaints with a faint smile. She could understand their frustration, but she found herself relieved that classes were starting. She needed something to focus on, something to ground her in this unfamiliar version of Hogwarts. The routines of lessons, schedules, and studying felt like a lifeline, something she could hold on to in the midst of everything.
The Great Hall was already filling with students, the long tables piled high with breakfast dishes—steaming porridge, crisp bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and stacks of toast. Hermione followed the girls to the Gryffindor table, finding a spot between Marlene and Lily. The familiar sounds of morning chatter and clinking cutlery filled the air.
As Hermione reached for a cup of tea, Marlene's voice cut through the noise, directing her attention to James Potter, who was seated across from them. "Oi, Potter, did you see the weather forecast for tomorrow? Perfect conditions for tryouts. No excuses this time."
James grinned, his eyes lighting up at the mention of Quidditch. "Clear skies and just the right amount of wind. We'll find the best talent for the team this year, Marly, I promise."
"Better," Marlene shot back, playfully jabbing her fork in James's direction. "I'm not spending another season being chased around by bludgers just because you think some second-year's got 'potential.'"
"Relax," James said, feigning an air of indifference. "I've got it all under control. Just be ready to bring your A-game."
Marlene rolled her eyes, but her smile was genuine. "Always do, Potter. Try not to let the power go to your head."
Hermione listened quietly, finding comfort in the lively banter. It was easy to see why James and Marlene got along—they both shared the same fiery passion for the sport, and their easy camaraderie made the atmosphere at the table light and familiar.
"Good morning, ladies," Professor McGonagall's crisp voice cut through the chatter, pulling Hermione from her thoughts. McGonagall moved along the table, handing out class schedules for the new term. She stopped beside Hermione, her expression kind but sharp, as always.
"Miss Delacour, here is your schedule," McGonagall said, passing Hermione a neatly folded piece of parchment. "I've arranged for you to sit the necessary assessments at the end of next week to ensure you are up to speed in your selected courses. Please see me if you have any concerns."
Hermione unfolded the parchment, her eyes scanning the neat handwriting listing her classes for the week:
Monday:
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM: Charms
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Ancient Runes
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Defence Against the Dark Arts
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Free Period
Tuesday:
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM: Free Period
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Arithmancy
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Herbology
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Free Period
Wednesday:
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM: Potions (Double)
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Potions (Double)
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Free Period
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Arithmancy
Thursday:
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM: Herbology
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Charms
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Transfiguration
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Free Period
Friday:
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM: Defence Against the Dark Arts
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM: Transfiguration
1:00 PM - 2:15 PM: Ancient Runes
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Free Period
Lily, seated beside her, leaned over Hermione's shoulder, glancing at the schedule. "Oh, we're taking the same classes!" she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. "That's brilliant. It's always nice to have a friendly face in every lesson."
Hermione smiled, feeling a flicker of relief. "That's great. I'm glad I won't be the only one struggling to keep up. I understand taking seven N.E.W.T. courses is a bit much." She kept her voice light, but the thought of sharing every class with Lily was both reassuring and slightly nerve-wracking. The last thing she wanted was to draw any suspicion, and being around someone as sharp as Lily Evans would be a constant test of her cover.
Lily laughed softly, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, seven N.E.W.T.s is no small feat. Most students only do five or six at most. But hey, if anyone can manage it, I reckon it's us. I've seen people break down over less, but you seem like you've got your head on straight."
Hermione's smile widened, the compliment both reassuring and a bit bittersweet. "Thanks. I just… like to keep busy, I guess. Better than having too much free time on my hands."
Lily gave her a knowing look. "You and me both. I've always thought it's better to be swamped with work than to sit around doing nothing. And at least it'll keep us on our toes, right?"
Hermione nodded, grateful for the easy camaraderie. "Definitely. It'll be a challenge, but I'm looking forward to it."
Lily nudged her playfully. "You'll be fine, Mina. McGonagall's tests are tough, but if you're in these classes, you must be up for it. And hey, if you ever need help with Charms or Potions, just ask. Those are my favourites."
Hermione felt a rush of warmth at the offer, appreciating the easy camaraderie that Lily was extending. And apparently transitioning to first-name bases can be just like that without any formality to it. Though Lily was Muggleborn like her, so she might be missing some of the finer points of etiquette.
"Thanks, Lily. I'll definitely keep that in mind. Charms is one of my favourites too, and I've always loved a good challenge in Potions." She paused, then added with a thoughtful smile, "And if you ever need help with Arithmancy, I'm happy to lend a hand. It's always been one of my best subjects."
Lily's eyes brightened with surprise and delight. "Really? That's fantastic! I've always found Arithmancy fascinating, but it can get so complex. I'd love to have someone to work through some of the trickier equations with. Professor Vector doesn't pull any punches."
Hermione nodded eagerly, relieved to find common ground with Lily beyond just their shared classes. "I'd be glad to help. I've always liked how everything in Arithmancy feels like solving a puzzle, all the calculations falling into place perfectly. It's… soothing, in a way."
Lily laughed lightly, shaking her head in mock exasperation. "You make it sound easy! But I appreciate it. I've never been great at the number-crunching bits, but I love how it connects to the magic itself. So I might take you up on that offer."
"Anytime," Hermione said sincerely, feeling a flicker of happiness at being able to offer her own strengths.
Before they could continue, Sirius Black plopped down beside them, his messy hair falling into his eyes as he grabbed a piece of toast. "Ready for DADA, my fair ladies?" he asked, flashing a cheeky grin as he piled bacon onto his plate, clearly in a hurry to eat.
Hermione felt a rush of nerves at his sudden appearance. Sirius was a force of nature, all charisma and bravado, and it was surreal seeing him so carefree, untouched by the future burdens she knew he would carry. But today, he was just another Gryffindor student, focused on breakfast and banter.
Lily rolled her eyes at him, though her smile betrayed her amusement. "Always the dramatic one, Black. You do realise it's just a normal lesson and not some epic duel?"
"Yeah, but this is our first class with Professor Winklebottom," Sirius shot back, grinning as he stuffed a slice of bacon into his mouth. "New year, new teacher—again. I'm expecting something good. Hopefully, he's not as useless as that one last year who couldn't tell a Boggart from a Bezoar."
Lily snorted, unable to hide her amusement. "You say that every year. And every year, they get more ridiculous."
Sirius shrugged, clearly unfazed. "Well, maybe this Winklebottom bloke will be different. I'm holding out hope for at least one decent duel or a proper demonstration. Better than reading out of the textbook, anyway."
Hermione chuckled, appreciating Sirius's enthusiasm, even if she knew it might be misplaced. "Let's hope it's something interesting, at least. I'd rather learn by doing than just listening to lectures."
Sirius shot her a wink. "See? Minnie gets it. You've got to be ready for anything, right? Anyway, stick close. If Winklebottom's a bust, I'm sure James and I can find something to liven things up."
Lily rolled her eyes again, but there was no real annoyance in her expression. "You mean 'cause trouble,' don't you?"
"Who, me? Never," Sirius said, putting on an innocent face that fooled no one. "I'm just here to help my friends enjoy a proper education."
Hermione smiled, feeling oddly at home among the playful banter. It was easy to see why Harry had been so drawn to stories of his parents and their friends. They were full of life, their energy contagious, and Hermione found herself looking forward to the class more than she'd expected. Also funny how Sirius went for a nickname instantly.
"Well, then," Hermione said, gathering her things as she stood. "Here's to hoping Professor Winklebottom makes it through the year."
Sirius laughed, raising his goblet in a mock toast. "To Professor Winklebottom: may he survive a year with us."
With that, they headed out of the Great Hall together, ready to face whatever the day—and their new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher—would bring.
As breakfast ended, most of the seventh-year Gryffindors gathered their things and headed toward Defence Against the Dark Arts together. The class was one of the most popular among their year, and nearly all of them had chosen to continue with it for N.E.W.T.s. Hermione found herself swept along in the familiar rush of students, surrounded by the excited buzz of her housemates as they made their way to the classroom.
"Can't believe they've paired us with Slytherin again," Marlene muttered, catching up to Hermione and Lily as they walked. "It's like they want us to hex each other before class even starts."
Hermione couldn't help but agree. The decision to pair Gryffindor with Slytherin for Defence Against the Dark Arts seemed epically messed up, in her opinion. It was a recipe for disaster, especially with the long-standing rivalry between the two houses. Every year brought a new Defence teacher with their own quirks, and this year's, Professor Winklebottom, was already rumoured to be eccentric.
As they filed into the classroom, Hermione spotted Severus Snape and a group of Slytherins seated on the opposite side, their expressions ranging from disinterest to outright disdain. James and Sirius were already exchanging glares with them, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife.
"Bet they'll start hexing each other before the end of class," Lily whispered to Hermione, rolling her eyes as James sent Snape a particularly smug look. "Honestly, they never learn."
Hermione nodded, but her attention was quickly pulled to Professor Winklebottom, who was already standing at the front of the room. He looked almost ordinary, with his rumpled robes and wire-rimmed glasses, but there was a strange glint in his eye that suggested he was anything but.
The class barely had time to settle when Winklebottom raised his wand and, without warning, sent a Stinging Hex flying across the room. The hex hit a Gryffindor boy square on the arm, and he yelped in surprise, rubbing the spot where the spell had struck.
"Constant vigilance!" Winklebottom called out, a mischievous smile on his face as he watched the students scramble to attention. "The Dark Arts won't wait for you to be ready, and neither will I."
Hermione's heart skipped a beat at the sudden attack. She gripped her wand tightly, her instincts kicking in. A second hex flew, and this time Hermione was ready. "Protego!" she cast, her shield charm springing up effortlessly as the spell bounced harmlessly off her shield.
But as she deflected the spell, a flash of memory overwhelmed her—curses flying, rubble crashing, the heat of battle. For a split second, she was back in the chaos of the Battle of Hogwarts, her senses flooded with the sounds and smells of war. Her pulse quickened, and the classroom around her blurred, replaced by the horror of a fight she thought she'd left behind.
"Mina?" Lily's voice cut through the haze, a gentle nudge bringing her back to the present. Hermione blinked, finding herself back in the classroom with Winklebottom still firing hexes at random. She turned to Lily, who was watching her with concern.
"You alright?"
Hermione forced a smile, her heart still racing as she tried to shake off the lingering panic. "Yeah, I'm fine," she said quickly, trying to sound casual. "Just… wasn't expecting that."
Lily nodded, but her eyes lingered on Hermione for a moment longer, clearly not convinced. "Winklebottom's certainly… different," she said, her tone laced with uncertainty as she deflected a hex of her own. "Let's hope he doesn't keep this up."
Hermione nodded, focusing on her breathing as she forced herself to stay present. She wasn't in a battle; she was in a classroom. But the suddenness of the attack and the unpredictability of Winklebottom's methods had triggered something she wasn't prepared for.
The rest of the lesson continued in the same chaotic fashion, with students dodging and deflecting spells while Winklebottom offered occasional, cryptic bits of advice. By the time the class ended, most of the students were on edge, either buzzing with adrenaline or muttering complaints about the professor's unconventional approach.
As they filed out, Lily fell into step beside Hermione, still watching her carefully. "You sure you're okay?"
Hermione nodded, though her mind was still reeling. "Yeah, just need to get used to him, I suppose. It's been a while since I had a class quite like that."
Lily gave her a supportive smile. "Well, if he keeps this up, we'll all be on our toes. But don't worry—we'll get through it."
After the chaotic Defence Against the Dark Arts class, Hermione was grateful for the steady stream of familiar chatter as the seventh-year Gryffindors made their way to their next lesson: Transfiguration with Professor McGonagall. The tension from Winklebottom's unpredictable teaching style lingered, but Hermione found herself feeling a little lighter knowing what was coming next.
Transfiguration was a comfort, a constant she could count on, and McGonagall was the embodiment of structure and high standards. As they approached the classroom, Hermione couldn't help but smile internally, feeling the tight knot of anxiety in her chest loosen just a little.
This was something she knew—something she could excel at.
The students filed into the familiar room, and Hermione quickly found a seat, placing herself in the middle of the Gryffindor group with Lily beside her. McGonagall stood at the front, her expression as stern and composed as ever, a reassuring sight that made Hermione's nerves settle.
Hermione glanced around, watching as the other students prepared for class, and she allowed herself a small moment of peace. Unlike Defence Against the Dark Arts, where the unexpected loomed over every lesson, Transfiguration had a sense of order, of discipline. She knew what to expect from McGonagall—rigour, precision, and a clear set of goals. It was the kind of teaching Hermione thrived on, and even though she was Mina Delacour here, she felt a sense of familiarity and comfort wash over her.
As McGonagall began the lesson, Hermione listened intently, finding solace in the cadence of the professor's voice. It was no different from her time, and that continuity helped anchor her in this strange situation. McGonagall moved seamlessly from a review of last year's material to introducing the advanced transfigurations they would be working on this term.
"For today's lesson," McGonagall announced, her sharp gaze scanning the room, "we will be revisiting human Transfiguration. It's one of the most complex branches of magic and requires not just skill but complete focus. We will start with the basics before progressing to more advanced applications."
Hermione watched McGonagall with a sense of quiet admiration. It was almost like stepping back into her old life—McGonagall's voice guiding the class with the same authority and clarity she remembered. The professor was unchanged: fair, exacting, and unwavering in her expectations.
As the lesson progressed, McGonagall moved seamlessly from theory to practical application, diving into the intricacies of partial human Transfiguration. It was a complex and advanced branch of magic, one that required an immense amount of concentration and finesse. Today's task was challenging but thrilling, and Hermione couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement at the prospect.
"For the practical portion of today's lesson," McGonagall announced, her tone both authoritative and encouraging, "we will be attempting partial human Transfiguration. This is a highly controlled form of magic, and I expect you all to exercise caution. Our goal is to transform a single feature. This is delicate work, and precision is key."
Hermione's heart quickened, not with nerves, but with the eager anticipation of a challenge she knew well. Partial human Transfiguration was an area she had studied extensively in her own time; the intricacies of altering specific features without losing control of the overall transformation required a level of focus she found deeply satisfying.
She took a deep breath, steadying her wand as McGonagall demonstrated the proper wand movements and incantations. Hermione watched closely, feeling a sense of familiarity settle over her. McGonagall's approach was as precise and methodical as ever, her instructions clear and unwavering.
"Now, pair up and begin," McGonagall instructed, her eyes sweeping over the class. "Remember, it's better to start small. A successful partial transformation is better than a failed attempt at something too ambitious."
"Alright, let's see what we can manage," Lily said with a determined smile, rolling up her sleeves. "I've never been great at this, but it's fascinating, isn't it?"
Hermione nodded, keeping her expression calm. "It really is. Just remember to focus on the part you're changing—don't try to do too much at once."
Lily went first, her brows furrowed in concentration as she attempted to transfigure the tip of her finger into a soft, feathery quill. The transformation wavered slightly but held, a delicate plume forming where her fingertip had been. She grinned, looking pleased with her effort.
"Not too bad," Lily said, wiggling her feathery finger. "It feels weird, but I think I got the hang of it."
Hermione smiled, genuinely impressed. "That's brilliant. You've got a good grasp on control."
It was Hermione's turn next. She took a moment to steady herself, focusing on a simple transformation—altering locks of her hair into delicate vines. She whispered the incantation, her wand movements precise and deliberate. The change was almost immediate: first a single lock of hair wove itself into a slender, green vine, tiny leaves sprouting from the stem, then the rest followed.
Lily watched, eyes wide with admiration. "That's amazing, Mina! You make it look so easy."
Hermione shrugged, feeling a mix of pride and caution. "Just a lot of practice, I guess," she said lightly, keeping her tone humble. "It's all about focusing on the details."
McGonagall, who had been making her rounds, paused by their table to observe. She looked between Lily's quill-finger and Hermione's vine-hair, nodding approvingly. "Well done, both of you. Miss Delacour, your control is excellent. Very precise work."
"Thank you, Professor," Hermione replied, keeping her smile modest despite the warmth that filled her chest at McGonagall's praise. Hearing those words from her favourite professor—regardless of the time—felt like a small but meaningful victory.
Across the room, James Potter and Sirius Black watched her with interest, their own transformations briefly forgotten. They were both exceptionally skilled at Transfiguration, and it didn't take much to impress them—but there was something about Mina Delacour that caught their attention.
The rest of the class continued with students experimenting cautiously, some with more success than others. Hermione felt more at ease here than she had since her arrival, surrounded by the familiar rhythm of learning and the steady guidance of a teacher she deeply respected. For the duration of the lesson, she allowed herself to relax into the comfort of McGonagall's classroom, finding solace in the familiarity of her favourite subject.
When the bell finally rang, signalling the end of class, Hermione packed up her things, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. She had made it through another challenge, and in a small but significant way, she felt like she belonged here.
As they left the classroom, Lily shot her a bright smile. "You were incredible today. I think McGonagall's already got you pegged as a star pupil."
Hermione chuckled, feeling a surge of gratitude. "Thanks, Lily. I just… really enjoy Transfiguration."
"Well, it shows," Lily said, linking her arm with Hermione's as they walked. "It's good to have someone else who's excited about the hard stuff. We're going to make a great team this year."
Lunch was a relatively uneventful affair, the Great Hall filled with the usual chatter and clatter of students catching up between classes. Hermione sat with Lily, Marlene, and a few other Gryffindors, listening to their banter but keeping mostly to herself. Her mind was still half-focused on the Transfiguration lesson, replaying McGonagall's praise and the attentive stares of James and Sirius. She pushed the thoughts aside, concentrating instead on her next class: Ancient Runes.
Ancient Runes had always been a subject that fascinated Hermione. It was complex, analytical, and required a level of precision that felt like a puzzle waiting to be solved. As she made her way to the classroom, she was pleased to see that only a handful of students were present. The subject wasn't popular, but that suited Hermione just fine.
From Gryffindor, only three seventh-years had chosen to continue with Ancient Runes: Hermione, Lily, and Remus. As they entered the classroom, Hermione felt the familiar comfort of the runes etched across the blackboard, each one a small challenge waiting to be deciphered.
So far today, she and Lily had stuck together, but as they set their bags down, Hermione hesitated for a moment. She glanced over at Remus, who was sitting at his usual spot near the front, already focused on his notes.
"Hey, Lily, do you mind if I sit with Lupin?" Hermione asked, her voice light but genuine. "I think it'd be nice to switch things up a bit."
Lily looked up, surprised but not bothered in the slightest. She gave Hermione a bright smile. "Of course, I don't mind. I'm sure Remus would appreciate the company."
Hermione smiled in thanks and moved over to the desk beside Remus, slipping into the seat and setting her books neatly in front of her. Remus looked up, his brow arching slightly in surprise as he registered Hermione's presence beside him.
"Hey, Delacour," Remus said, his voice soft and warm. "Didn't expect to have company today."
Hermione shrugged with a friendly grin. "Please, call me Mina. Thought I'd join you this time. Hope you don't mind."
Remus shook his head, clearly pleased. "Remus then, and not at all. It's nice to have someone who's actually interested in the runes sitting nearby. You seem to have a knack for this."
The class began, and Professor Babbling launched into the day's topic: protective runic wards and their various interpretations in magical history. Hermione was immediately engrossed, jotting down notes and cross-referencing symbols with a fluidity that came naturally to her.
As they worked through a complex translation together, Hermione noticed Remus glancing at her parchment, his expression thoughtful. She could tell he was wrestling with a particularly intricate set of runes.
"This bit's tricky," Remus admitted, pointing to a combination of symbols. "It's like it's doubling back on itself. I can't quite make sense of it."
Hermione leaned in, her eyes scanning the runes. She nodded, recognizing the subtle shift in the sequence that altered the meaning. "It's a binding ward," she explained, her voice low enough not to disturb the rest of the class. "This symbol here isn't just a connector; it's reinforcing the entire structure, making it twice as strong. It's a clever way to make sure the protection holds."
Remus blinked, absorbing her explanation with an appreciative smile. "That's brilliant, Mina. I hadn't caught that at all."
Hermione smiled, feeling the warmth of shared understanding. "It's easy to miss. Runes like to play tricks with context, but once you see the pattern, it all falls into place."
They worked side by side, their quiet collaboration filled with occasional exchanges and knowing smiles. Hermione found herself enjoying Remus's company more than she expected; he was thoughtful and focused, his calm presence a welcome contrast to the louder personalities of their other friends. It felt natural, almost like working with Harry or Ron during their quieter moments of study.
When class ended, Remus tucked his notes away, giving Hermione a grateful look. "Thanks for sitting with me. It's nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of."
"Anytime," Hermione replied, genuinely meaning it. "I enjoyed it."
As they exited the classroom, Lily joined them, looking pleased to see her friends getting along. "How'd you two manage? Didn't bore each other to death, did you?"
Remus chuckled. "Far from it. Mina's got a real eye for this stuff. You should have seen her notes—practically flawless."
Hermione flushed slightly at the praise but waved it off. "Just a lot of practice. And honestly, it was nice to switch things up a bit."
Lily beamed, clearly pleased that Hermione and Remus had hit it off. "Well, I'm glad you two got on. Maybe I'll join you both next time, if you'll have me."
"Absolutely," Hermione said, smiling warmly. "The more, the merrier."
After Ancient Runes, Hermione found herself with a free period before dinner. She briefly considered relaxing in the common room, but the looming assignments from her classes were already starting to weigh on her mind. Plus, she'd overheard that some of the students, including James, Sirius, and Peter, were heading off to Care of Magical Creatures. She'd noticed Remus hadn't been among them, and she could understand why that particular class might be a less-than-ideal combination for him, given his condition.
With a sigh, Hermione decided to head to the library instead. It was the perfect place to catch up on her assignments and keep on top of her workload before it piled up. The comforting quiet of the library was something she'd always found soothing, and she knew that the familiar scent of parchment and old books would help her focus.
As she entered the vast, dimly lit room filled with towering bookshelves, Hermione felt a sense of calm wash over her. She navigated through the rows of books, her mind already shifting gears toward her studies, when she spotted a familiar figure hunched over a stack of books at one of the tables.
Remus was sitting alone, surrounded by an array of open textbooks and rolls of parchment, his quill moving steadily as he scribbled notes. He looked deep in concentration, his brow furrowed as he worked, but there was a quiet determination about him that Hermione found both admirable and familiar.
Hermione approached quietly, not wanting to disturb him. "Mind if I join you?" she asked softly, her voice just above a whisper.
Remus glanced up, momentarily startled, but his expression softened into a warm smile when he saw her. "Not at all," he said, motioning to the empty seat across from him. "I could use some company. I didn't expect anyone else to be here during a free period."
Hermione slid into the chair opposite him, setting her own books down with a light thud. "Same here. I figured I'd get ahead on some assignments. It's easy to fall behind if you're not careful."
Remus nodded in agreement. "Exactly. I've learned it's best to keep on top of things, especially with all the… distractions." He said the last word with a small, knowing smile, and Hermione couldn't help but chuckle, thinking of their more rambunctious friends and their penchant for chaos.
They fell into a comfortable silence, each focused on their own work but occasionally glancing up to exchange a small smile or a nod. Hermione found herself slipping easily into her study routine, and it felt almost like old times—hours spent in the Hogwarts library with Harry and Ron. Though they were more likely to join if there was a mystery to solve than for just regular study sessions.
At one point, Remus looked up from his notes, studying her with a curious expression. "You're really dedicated, aren't you? It's not often you see someone so focused on their studies during free time."
Hermione smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I just like to stay ahead. I've always found comfort in knowing what to expect, and being prepared helps with that."
Remus nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I get that. It's easier to deal with everything when you feel like you're in control, even if it's just your homework."
Hermione glanced at his stack of books and recognized a few titles related to advanced Defence Against the Dark Arts and Charms. "You're doing extra reading?" she asked, noting the sheer volume of material he was working through.
Remus shrugged, a small, self-deprecating smile tugging at his lips. "I like to keep busy. Plus, some of it's just… personal interest. There's a lot you can learn outside of what the professors give us."
Hermione understood all too well—the hunger for knowledge, the drive to know more, not just for the sake of school but for yourself. She nodded, feeling a quiet connection with Remus that went beyond their shared classes.
They continued to work side by side, the soft scratching of quills and the rustle of parchment the only sounds between them. It was a simple, quiet moment, but it felt like an unspoken understanding passed between them—two students dedicated to their studies, finding solace in the pursuit of knowledge.
As the bell rang, signalling the end of the period, Remus began packing up his things. He looked over at Hermione, his expression genuinely grateful. "Thanks for sitting with me, Mina. It's nice having someone around who gets it."
Hermione smiled warmly, tucking her own notes away. "Anytime, Remus. I enjoyed it."
As dinner began, the Great Hall was filled with the lively hum of students catching up on their day. Hermione settled in at the Gryffindor table beside Lily and Marlene, quietly enjoying the warmth of the bustling hall and the comforting aroma of roast chicken, fresh bread, and pumpkin juice. She had just started to fill her plate when a commotion further down the table caught her attention.
Sirius, James, and Peter were at the centre of it, animatedly reenacting a scene from their Care of Magical Creatures class. Hermione couldn't help but smile at their antics; they were clearly enjoying themselves, each vying to outdo the others with their storytelling flair.
"—and then, just as Kettleburn turned to get the Niffler back under control," Sirius was saying, waving his arms dramatically, "the Niffler gets a whiff of something shiny and bolts right between his legs!"
James leapt to his feet, mimicking Professor Kettleburn with an exaggerated wobble, flailing his arms for balance. "Kettleburn's hopping on one leg—like this—trying not to topple over, but then, whoosh!" James swung his legs out from under him, landing with a thud on the bench in an exaggerated fall. "Down he goes, right on his bum!"
The Gryffindors around them burst into laughter, clapping and cheering at James's performance. Peter, not wanting to be left out, chimed in from his seat, trying to capture the Niffler's frantic scurrying with his hands. "The Niffler's got its snout in the dirt, and poor Kettleburn's shouting, 'That's my prosthetic leg, you blithering blighter!'"
Hermione couldn't help but laugh along with the rest of the group, the scene playing out vividly in her mind. Professor Kettleburn, notorious for his recklessness and his patchwork of missing limbs, had always been a memorable character in her own time. Hearing that he had managed to lose yet another limb over the summer and was now even more unsteady on his feet somehow felt both tragic and oddly fitting.
Lily shook her head, amused. "Honestly, I'm surprised he's still teaching. The man's an accident waiting to happen."
Marlene giggled, nudging Hermione. "And they've put him in charge of Nifflers? That's like putting Peeves in charge of discipline."
Sirius, still revelling in the laughter, added one final flourish to their reenactment. "Kettleburn's got his wand out, trying to levitate himself back up, but he's so wobbly it's like watching a baby hippogriff trying to walk for the first time."
James wiped a mock tear from his eye, collapsing back onto the bench beside Sirius. "He's a legend, that one. Can't teach a class without something going wrong, but hey, it makes for great entertainment."
As the reenactment wound down, the group continued to chatter about the class, sharing bits of the day's chaos and laughing at Kettleburn's misadventures. Hermione listened with a grin, feeling a mixture of fondness and exasperation. It was easy to see why the Marauders were so beloved by their peers—never a dull moment, always quick with a joke, and capable of turning even the most mundane school day into a story worth telling.
Later that evening, the Marauders' dorm room was filled with the familiar sounds of banter, laughter, and the occasional thud of something being thrown across the room. James was sprawled on his bed, flipping through a Quidditch magazine and occasionally tossing snarky comments at Sirius, who was attempting to balance a Snitch on the tip of his nose. Peter was perched at the foot of his bed, snickering as he watched the spectacle, his laughter punctuated by exaggerated cheers whenever Sirius managed to keep the Snitch steady for more than a second.
Remus, however, sat slightly apart, his gaze drifting aimlessly between his half-open Defence Against the Dark Arts textbook and the ceiling above. His mind wasn't on spells or essays, though; it was on Mina Delacour. She'd been on the edges of his thoughts all day, lingering like an unsolved riddle that he couldn't quite put down.
"You alright there, Moony?" James's voice broke through Remus's reverie, drawing his attention back to the room. "You look like you've just been walloped by a rogue Bludger."
Remus blinked, realising he'd been staring into space while the others were busy making a game out of Sirius's Snitch antics. "Sorry, just… thinking," he mumbled, trying to sound nonchalant. But his distant tone only earned him a knowing look from Sirius, who, having just lost control of the Snitch, let it flutter away in defeat.
"Thinking, huh? Must be some pretty deep thoughts to keep you from laughing at my incredible display of athletic prowess," Sirius teased, brushing his hair out of his eyes with an exaggerated flourish. "Let me guess—pondering the meaning of life? Or perhaps lost in a daydream about a certain new Gryffindor?"
Remus rolled his eyes, but he couldn't quite hide the faint smile tugging at his lips. "It's not like that," he said, leaning back against his headboard. "I was just… you know, trying to make sense of the day."
Peter snickered, nudging James with his elbow. "Oh, I'm sure that's it. Couldn't possibly be thinking about a girl. Not our responsible, always-focused Remus."
James tossed his magazine aside and grinned. "It's alright, Moony. We get it. She's interesting. Mysterious. Got that whole 'enigmatic transfer student' vibe going on. Can't blame you for being curious."
"Yeah, what's her deal, anyway?" Peter piped up, shifting closer. "She shows up out of nowhere, barely a hint of an accent, and she's acing every class. You don't see that every day."
Remus shrugged, trying to play it cool, but his mind was already replaying the day's events. "She's just… different," he said, searching for the right words. "She's good at everything she does, but there's something about her that doesn't quite fit. Like she's here but not really here."
Sirius stretched out, propping himself up on one elbow with a devilish grin. "I'm starting to think you've got yourself a little crush, Remus. All this brooding, all this intrigue… it's like the start of a bad romance novel."
Remus threw a pillow at Sirius, who caught it with a triumphant laugh. "I'm a prefect, Sirius. I introduced myself because I'm supposed to. That's it."
"Oh sure," Sirius drawled, tossing the pillow back. "Just doing your duty. And it's got nothing to do with how you went out of your way to chat her up in Ancient Runes and sit with her in the library."
James snorted, shaking his head. "Mate, you've been mooning over her all day. Even Lily noticed—you were staring at her like she was a particularly difficult Arithmancy problem."
Peter cackled, joining in on the teasing. "If she's a problem, you're definitely determined to solve it."
Remus tried to look annoyed, but he couldn't quite suppress his smile. There was truth in their words, no matter how much he tried to downplay it. "She's just… I don't know. She's not like anyone else, is all. She's got this way about her—like she's got everything figured out but is still on edge, like she's waiting for something to go wrong."
Sirius raised an eyebrow, his grin softening into something more understanding. "Sounds familiar. Almost like a certain prefect I know who's always got one eye on the moon and the other on his mates."
James nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe that's why you're so curious, Moony. You see something of yourself in her. And hey, it's not like you've got to figure her out all in one day."
Remus sighed, feeling the weight of his own thoughts settling back in. They were right, of course. Mina was more than just a distraction—she was a mirror, reflecting back pieces of himself that he didn't often share with others. "I just… can't help it. She's a mystery, and I've never been good at letting those go."
Sirius grinned, giving Remus a playful punch on the arm. "Well, as long as you don't get so wrapped up in her that you forget who your real mates are."
Remus chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't worry, Pads. You lot are more than enough to keep me on my toes."
James leaned back, tossing a stray sock at Peter and missing entirely. "Besides, if she's that interesting, she's bound to get more intriguing. We'll all get to know her soon enough, I reckon."
The room fell back into its usual rhythm, filled with the sounds of laughter, snark, and the occasional pillow being hurled across the room. Remus, though, couldn't help but let his thoughts drift back to Mina. She was a mystery, one he wasn't sure he should be trying to solve—but then again, Remus Lupin had never been particularly good at leaving well enough alone.
As the boys continued their banter, Remus settled back, allowing himself one last moment of reflection. Mina Delacour was different, guarded, and intriguing in ways he hadn't expected. And despite his friends' teasing, Remus couldn't help but feel that she was a distraction worth pursuing, at least for now.