The next couple of days all anyone could talk about was Professor Lockhart's defense classes. From the youngest first year, to the oldest N.E.W.T student, Lockhart's classes were challenging, productive, yet rewarding. Despite this, the school was still mixed on Lockhart the person. Some, like me ,saw his as the true hero he was. Others saw him as a annoying celebrity who was full of himself...
Harry was one of those people.
"I don't know what you, or anyone, see in him." Harry told me after lunch on Wednesday.
"He's a hero Harry." I retorted, causing him to roll his eyes and sigh.
"He's an annoying, full of himself, celebrity who won't leave me alone." He snapped back, which made me frown.
"He simply want's to help you with being famous, nothing wrong with that." I replied, and Harry groaned.
"Whatever Sarah, where never going to agr..."
"All right, Harry?"
We both jumped at the new voice, and turned to see Colin Creevey looking at us, at Harry eagerly.
"Hello, Colin," Harry replied, giving the boy an awkward smile before looking back at me. "See you later." He said, then strode off, clearing trying to get away from the obsessed first year.
Still, it wasn't just Harry Lockhart had taken a liking to, it was also me. Anytime he saw me in the hall's he'd smile, and wink, causing me to blush. I'd reply with a little wave, he'd nod, and Anthony would groan.
"Evening, Miss Potter." Lockhart said, on our way to the common room Thursday night."
"Evening...Sir." I replied, trying not to blush. He gave me one last wink, then strode off. I noticed Anthony look back at him frowning, while Lisa struggled not to laugh.
"You look like an apple." She told me, as I glared at her.
"You would too." I snapped back, as she once again chuckled.
"He's done that every day this week." Anthony said suddenly, and we both turned to him.
"What wrong with that?" I asked, causing Anthony to stroke his chin thoughtfully.
"It's just... odd." He replied, I frowned, and while Lisa looked at him confused.
"What do you mean?" She asked, and Anthony looked back at us uncertainly.
"I don't know...it just is."
"Is it odd for a Professor to be polite to there students?" I replied, defending him, and Anthony sighed.
"Just...never mind. I hope he doesn't track us down tomorrow."
"Pleasant morning, Miss Potter." Lockhart said as we made our way to breakfast Friday morning. I smiled back a him.
"Morning sir." I replied, Lockhart winked, then strode off.
"I'm telling you, it's odd." Anthony said as we walked into the Great Hall.
"Why do you think it's so odd that someone is noticing me?" I asked, annoyed. Anthony just sighed.
"Just...be careful." He urged, as we sat down at the breakfast table.
I made myself a plate of breakfast, and looked around the table. Michael and Terry were both looked downcast while, Padma, Mandy, and Morag all were whispering to each other, none had a smile on there face.
Something was clearly wrong.
"What's happened?" I asked the table at large, causing Michael and Terry to turn to me with defeated expression.
"We've got potions today." Terry explained, and I winced in understanding.
"Oh."
"Yeah." Michael replied, wrinkling his nose in disgust. "Another year of Snape glaring, snapping, and berating us."
"Well, most of us." Terry added, giving me a small grin and I felt a surge of guilt in my stomach as I remembered last year. How Snape would go after everyone of my class mates, while mostly ignoring me. It was even weirder considering he'd treated Harry worse than anybody else, and that he knew and hated our father.
Still, he'd never once yelled at me, and it felt...odd.
"Any way's we were just discussing our notes from last year, trying to make sure he doesn't get the jump on us." Michael explained, and I nodded.
"It's a good idea..." I replied, looking at Anthony and Lisa. "We better start reviewing after breakfast."
They both nodded, then we started to quickly eat our breakfast. Around us more housemates filled the table. The first years arrived and, led by Sandra, sat down on one side of us. Once again I noticed Luna had been ostracized, though they seemed to be letting her read in peace. Cho, Marietta, and the other third years sat down on the other side of us, followed by the fourth year, and so on.
"Morning." Cho told us pleasantly as she made herself a bowl of cereal. "Don't you all look pleasant this morning?" Cho joked looking over all of us. "Let me guess, potions?"
"Yeah." Padma answered in a worried tone. "Everyone's quite...on edge."
"Well, as long as you prepare hard like last year, you should be fine." Cho told us encouragingly, before turning to me, a grin on her face. "I mean, unless you're Sarah's partner."
"Come on guys. I don't even know why he goes easy on me." I replied, rubbing my elbow, as Cho chuckled.
"Just consider yourself lucky, and hope he never changes his mind about you." Cho said after composing herself. "Any way's I'll let you all eat, and one last word of advice, potions only gets harder."
With that Cho turned back to Marietta, while all of us turned to each other, some faces paler than others. Michael and Terry started eating the rest of there porridge as quickly as they could, murmuring how they needed to go to the library and "Prepare for the inevitable ." While Padma, Mandy, and Morag pulled out a stack of notes and started reviewing right on the spot.
Me, Lisa, and Anthony on the other hand all tried to stay calm...well I did anyway. Anthony and Lisa played rock, paper, scissors to decide who would be my partner. Anthony won, which made Lisa knock over her porridge bowl, tell us that Michael and Terry had the right idea and storm off after them. Anthony, and me shared amused looks, as I took my final bite.
"Well, we better go to library too." I said, as both me and Anthony stood up.
"I mean...we don't have to. Snape never comes after you, and since I'm your partner, he won't come after me either." Anthony said with a sly grin, and I shrugged.
"It's better to be safe than sorry." I explained, and Anthony smirked but nodded.
"You're probably right." He admitted, and we both started walking away from the table...
"Wait."
I stopped, and turned to see Cho motioning me back over. Anthony turned to me, I shrugged, then we both walked over to her.
"Yes Cho?" I asked.
"I need to talk to you." Cho replied, looking around nervously, and I stared at her totally confused.
"...Yes?"
"Not now... could you meet me tonight, after dinner in the courtyard?" She asked, I looked at Anthony confused, who avoided looking in my direction. I was totally lost, but nodded.
"Sure." I replied, and Cho smiled eagerly.
"Good, see you then." She replied, and before I could reply her, Marietta, and the rest of the third years sped from the hall. Leaving me totally lost.
"I wonder what she wants?" I asked, as we made our way to the Library. Anthony looked around nervously, then shrugged.
"...No idea." He replied, and instantly I looked at him skeptically.
"You know something?" I accused, and Anthony looked at me with pleading eyes.
"Don't know what you're talking about." He replied nervously, and I raised an eyebrow.
"Anthony." I said, and he began to fidget.
"Okay, I do know...something , but...Cho made me promise not to say anything...remember what I said on the train?" Anthony asked quietly, and I thought back, and remembered how Cho and Anthony had met at a Quidditch game, and how Cho...
"She wants me...on the Qud..."
"SHH!" Anthony replied, looking around nervously. "They want it quiet, Cho, and Roger, and everyone else. No one is supposed to know yet, not even you...at least not until tonight." Anthony replied, and I looked at him wide eyed.
"I can't...I'm not athletic." I replied, and Anthony waved me off.
"They think you'll be like Harry, that your naturally talented." He replied, and I shook my head.
"But I'm not..."
"Have you ever ridden a broom outside of our classes last year?"
"...No."
"Then how do you know?"
I didn't have a reply to that...but still. Me on the Quidditch team, why would they even consider me...I mean Harry at least had a semblance of athletic ability, anytime Dudley and his gang came after us he easily was able to get away. I on the other hand would have to beg, plead, and promise to do their homework.
Still, both Harry and my father had played, and Cho wanted me to at least try out.
"I...guess it can't hurt." I finally admitted, and Anthony shrugged.
"I just don't want Cho to hex me because it's gotten out." He replied, and I patted him on the back.
"I'll act surprised." I assured him, and he looked at me relived.
"Thanks."
We entered the Library and found Lisa, Michael, and Terry sitting at a table frantically reading potion books. Me, and Anthony sat down, as Lisa gave us both a slight glance.
"Come to join the fun?" She asked, nodding to her copy of Magical Drafts and Potions.
I nodded. "Yeah. Always better to be prepared."
"Of course." Anthony added. Lisa just rolled her eyes, then turned back to her book.
We spent the next couple hours studying. Eventually Padma, Mandy, and Morag joined us. Finally we all got up, and headed for the dungeons. Everyone was tense as we all gathered outside the classroom. Soon enough the Hufflepuff's joined us. Smith avoided looking at me, seemingly to deep in conversation with Ernie Macmillan.
"He's such a coward." Lisa whispered in my ear. "The only time he'll come after you is when you're alone."
I turned to her and smirked. "Oh, I'm well aware."
Soon enough the door quickly opened, and we all scurried inside. I sat next to Anthony, much to Lisa's chagrin. After a couple seconds, Snape strode into the room, his dark black cape flowing behind him. He finally reached the front of the room, and turned to face us.
"Another year begins." Snape began in his quiet, deadly voice. "Of your magical educations. Another year of brewing drafts, mixing ingredients, making potions." Snape looked around the room, making whomever his eyes fell on squirm. "SMITH!" He roared suddenly, and it took all my willpower to not smile.
"S...Sir." He replied.
"Tell me, from your summer readings. What our the thee ingredients for the Swelling Solution?" He asked. Smith seemed to squirm in his seat, as Snape glared at him.
"I...I can't remember." Smith replied, and Snape sneered.
"Or you didn't read." He replied shaking his head. "Five points from Hufflepuff." He turned away from Smith and looked over towards us. "PATIL!" He shouted, and despite her best efforts, Padma jumped.
"Sir?"
"Same question?"
"The three ingredients consist of Bat Spleens, Dried Nettles, and Puffer-Fish Eyes." Padma replied after a second of hesitation. And Snape frowned.
"Read right from the textbook." He spat, then began pacing the room. Anytime he approached a student, they would tense up. He finally stopped in front of me, and looked me in the eyes. I was reminded of my first night at Hogwarts, when I first saw him at the feast. How he looked at me with guilt, like then this quickly faded as a neutral expression filled his features.
"And what would you need to do after brewing said potion, Miss Potter?" He asked, and I thought for a moment.
"Ferment the potion, sir." I replied, and he nodded.
"Correct." He replied, before quickly turning away as his usual sneer returned. Anthony gave me a small smirk, as Snape walked in front of his desk and once again looked around the room. "BONES!" He shouted, causing Susan Bones to twitch.
"Sir."
"What would happen if said potion got on one's skin as it was being brewed." Snape asked, and Susan fumbled over her word, then answered.
"...Y...You'd...swell up." She answered, and Snape sneered at her.
"A rare correct answer." He said, then strode up to the blackboard. "We shall be working with more difficult potions such as the Swelling Solution this year. Before we begin we shall go over standard safety procedures while making potions, I will not have someone burn themselves over a a foolish error." He looked around the room, sneering at almost everyone. "Now who can tell me the what kind of gloves you would wear..."
The rest of class, Snape lectured us on safety in the classroom. Everything from the correct types of gloves to wear, goggles to use, and even making sure all girls wore their hair back. At the end of class, he announced an essay on safety due at the beginning of next class, then dismissed us.
Most of my housemates were grumpy, seeing as Snape had snapped at all of them at one point or another. The only exceptions were me, whom Snape still seemed to...like? And Anthony, whom had been ignored as my partner.
"You-are-so-lucky." Lisa said as we entered the Great Hall for dinner. Anthony replied with a satisfied grin, while I just shrugged.
"Like I've told you, I have no idea why he's...nice to me." I replied as we sat down. I made myself a plate, and the Evening mail arrived. To my surprise, Uric was carrying a letter. I opened it and saw the familiar writing of Hagrid.
Dear Sarah.
I was wondering if you and your friends would like to have a cup of tea Saturday morning? I've already asked Harry, and he said yes.
Write back soon.
Hagrid.
I looked up and turned the Anthony and Lisa. "Want to go see Hagrid Saturday?" I asked the pair. Lisa nodded, while looked at me curiously.
"He doesn't have any dragons, does he?" He asked, a small smile on his face, and I smirked at the memory.
"Not that I know of." I finally replied. Anthony nodded and I turned back to the parchment, and wrote my reply.
We would be delighted, see you then.
I strapped the parchment to Uric and sent him off, then turned back to the rest of my year mates, as we all began to listen to Terry, and Michael's annual post potions rant.
"I don't know how he keeps his job. I mean...no one outside of Slytherin likes him." Michael said, casting a glance at the Slytherin table.
"I know, add in the fact that he's always giving Slytherin point, and always taking everyone else's. I mean, theirs a reason Slytherin had that long streak of winning the house cup." Terry added.
"I know, remember last year when he gave Flint one hundred points for doing his homework. His homework. I mean I don't think doing homework, which is supposed to be mandatory, should be rewarded. "
"I heard he did the same thing for Crabbe and Goy...
"Miss Lovegood?"
At the mention of Luna's name I turned and saw Professor Flitwick at the end of the table. He was looking at Luna with a confused expression. She looked up from the Quibbler, while the other first years all seemed intently focused on their meals.
"Yes Professor?" Luna replied in her always dreamy voice.
"Where are your shoes?" He asked, and that's when I noticed that Luna wasn't wearing any.
"It's the oddest thing Professor. They were on my feet last night." She began and Flitwick frowned in confusion. "I sleep walk. "She explained, and he nodded.
"Oh." He said, and she nodded.
"It's quite interesting, anyways, they were on my feet last night, yet when I woke up they were missing. I suspect Nargles."
At that I noticed some of the other first years smirk at there plates, while Professor Flitwick looked at the girl confused.
"Nargles?" He asked, and she nodded.
"Small creatures that love to steal. You've never heard of them Professor?" She asked, and Flitwick shook his head.
"No, Miss Lovegood." He replied, and she gave a small frown.
"Odd, I thought you would. Anyway, I'm sure that's who took them." She replied, before leaning in closer to Professor Flitwick. "They love Mistletoe, that's where I'd look." She recommended.
"I'll...do that Miss Lovegood." Professor Flitwick replied, rubbing the back of his head. "In the meantime, do you have any other pairs?"
"No." She replied simply, and Flitwick sighed.
"It'd be wise to find them quickly. Winter at Hogwarts is no place to be barefoot." He suggested, and Luna nodded.
"I'll try Professor." She promised, and he nodded.
"Good, I'll inform the staff of your...situation." He said, and she nodded.
"Thank you sir."
With one final nod, Professor Flitwick strode up to the high table, while Luna quickly stood up. "If any of you catch the Nargles, you would tell me?" She asked her year mates, and they all finally looked up.
"Of course Luna." Sandra replied, clearly trying not to keep a straight face. Luna nodded.
"Thank you, I'm going to go search the Common Room while it's empty. If you'll excuse me." Luna then started skipping through the hall barefoot, I heard some laughs from the other tables. When Luna finally left the hall, the other first years burst into laughter.
"She's such a nutcase." Sandra said between laughs.
"I know." Tyler added taking a couple deep breaths, and shaking his head. "Nargles."
"Where'd you put her shoes anyway Victoria?" Sandra asked, and my ears perked up. They had stolen the poor girls shoes?
"I Hid them under the stairs in the owlery..."
I'd heard enough, I stopped listening and turned back to my year mates. All were smiling, and laughing as Michael impersonated Snape.
"Now students, as your least favorite Professor, I've come up with today's lesson plan. You must all create a potion to fix my large, abnormal nose." Michael spoke in the same, slow, tone that Snape spoke in. Most of the group burst into laughter, I didn't...hearing a group of your housemates talk about stealing another's shoes didn't sit well with me.
"You two are such jokesters." Lisa told the pair, before tuning to me. "That was enterta...are you okay?" She asked, noticing the expression on my face.
"Fine...just. Never mind." I replied. Lisa frowned, then shrugged.
"What is it with you never tell us what's wrong?" She asked, and I sighed.
"Don't want to worry you." I replied, and Lisa nodded.
"If you say so."
I sat through the rest of dinner in silence. Glancing down at Sandra and the rest of the first years. Wondering how in the world a group in our house could be so cruel...
I guess being wise isn't a inherently good or bad trait.
Finally people started standing, and I remembered that Cho had asked to meet. I then nodded in determination, hoping that I wasn't going to make a fool of myself.
"Where are you going?" Lisa asked, as I started heading towards the courtyard.
"Cho wanted the talk to me." I explained. Lisa frowned in confusion, then shrugged.
"Well hurry back. I need help on that Charm's Essay." She shouted as I strode away, I gave her a thumbs up as I walked into the courtyard. Cho was sitting on a stone bench, looking around nervously.
"There you are." She said smiling.
"You wanted to talk to me about something?" I asked, and she nodded.
"Yes...but not here. Let's go for a walk." She replied, I nodded as we started out onto the grounds. "Not a word of what we talk about get out, this is top secret." She warned me and I nodded.
"Of course." I replied, trying to look confused. Remembering Anthony's worry of being jinxed.
"Cho and her Quidditch." I thought to myself.
We continued down onto the grounds. I could tell Cho had been waiting to do this for a while. She had an eager look on her face, and a pip in her step. I could also tell she wanted no one to know about this, seeing as she glanced around, making sure no one was following.
"I know you must be wondering what this is all about?" Cho asked as we walked towards the Quidditch Pitch.
"Quidditch?" I said, and she looked at me worriedly.
"Who told you..." She said in a low voice, and I raised an eyebrow.
"Seeing as were approaching the Pitch, and your love of the game, I thought it was a good guess." I replied, and was relived she seemed to accept that.
"Yes, Quidditch." She replied seriously. "As you know, our Chaser's outside of Roger last year were...let's just say I'm glad they graduated. Every game was horrible for me, trying to catch the snitch before the score got to out of hand."
"I remember, every time a game approached, you were a nervous wreck." I said truthfully, and she nodded.
"Like I said it was stressful." She replied, looking at the ground. "That's why we need better Chaser's, Roger can only score so often. If we're going to have a chance at the cup, we need help...we need you."
"Me?" I asked skeptically, and she nodded eagerly.
"Yes, you. Your brothers the youngest Seeker in a century, and your father was a brilliant Chaser in his day, it's in your blood." Cho explained, and I shook my head.
"I don't know Cho...Harry's always been more athletic than me..." I replied as we walked onto the Pitch. "Better reflexes, heck you saw him last year. I don't know if I could ever do that..."
"That's what were about to test." She told me with a smirk backing away. I looked at her totally confused.
"What kind of tes..."
"ROGER, NOW!" Cho suddenly shouted, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw a round object being hurled at me. I ducked just in time to avoid it, as it landed with a crash on the ground. I looked at it, then back where it came from. Roger Davies was looking at me nodding, while Cho walked over to him excitedly.
"I told you it was in her blood." Cho said excitedly, Roger nodded.
"Indeed, only someone with a good eye, and excellent reflexes, could have dodged that." Roger replied, stroking his chin.
"We have to let her on. If she's even a fraction as good as Harry, then we have a chance this year, we can finally win the cup."
"Excuse me." I finally said after getting over the shock of what just happened. Cho, and Roger both turned to me as I crossed my arms. "Did you just throw a quaffle at my head?"
"Yes." Roger replied like it wasn't a big deal. "I needed to test your reflexes, if you're going to be on the team..."
"I haven't even asked to be on the team." I replied, and the excitement in Cho's eyes died down.
"You don't want to be on the team?" She asked, horror on her face, and I shook my head.
"I don't know...I mean, all I know is you asked to talk to me, say I would be a good Chaser, then hurl a Quaffle at my head. I haven't said yes, or no." I replied, and Cho looked at me with pleading eyes.
"But you have to..." She said walking over to me, I shifted awkwardly as she put her hands on my shoulder and looked me in the eyes. "For the house." She begged, and I sighed.
"I don..."
"Let me ask you something." Roger suddenly said, and I turned to the Fourth Year.
"What?"
"Last year, when Harry made the team, did it make you jealous?" He asked, and I frowned.
"What's that got to do with anything?" I replied, and Roger smirked.
"Come on. Already more famous brother breaks rules, and get's to be seeker..."
"How do you know about that?" I asked, and Roger shrugged.
"I asked Wood how Harry made the team." He replied nonchalantly. "But back to my original point. More famous brother makes team by breaking rules, become a hero for Gryffindor, and you don't feel even the slightest bit jealous?" He asked, tilting his head.
I stared back in silence for a while...I mean I was little jealous of the whole incident. But it was so long ago, and Harry was amazing. It wasn't like he got in just off name recognition...
"I don't...maybe a little. But that was last year, what does that have to do with anything?"
"Maybe nothing." Roger considered. "Other than the fact you could compete against him, not directly of course that's Cho, but still. And even if you weren't jealous, being on the Quidditch team is many a Hogwarts student's dream. We thought you'd jump at the chance."
Again I stood in silence, did I want to be on the team? I had to admit to myself it looked fun...still.
"What if I'm not good?" I asked.
"Then you won't make the team, we aren't just going to give you a spot, that's what tonight's for. If you want to, where going to try you out, tonight. Think of this more as a fast track. If you're good like Cho thinks, no reason to hold tryouts for two new Chasers."
"That's why you denied Michael and Terry." I said, feeling slightly guilty, and Cho nodded.
"If you make the team, there's only going to be one open spot. They wanted to play together." Cho explained, and I grimaced..."Don't feel guilty, where the ones doing all this." Cho added. And I nodded.
"So, do you want to tryout?" Roger asked, and I thought...
"I don't have a broom." I pointed, out Cho smirked.
"You can use mine tonight." She explained, walking over and picking up her Comet 260. "Though if you make the team you'll either have to buy your own, use a school broom, or use Harry's in matches we don't play Gryffindor"
"I'd buy your own. Now then, do you want to try out?" Roger asked, and I took a deep breath.
"Sure." I said after a moment of hesitation. Cho smiled, while Roger nodded.
"Yes." Cho said excitedly giving a comforting pat on the shoulder. "You won't regret it, and don't worry, you'll do great." She led me over to her broom, and helped me get on. I remembered the few times I'd flown last year in Madam Hooch classes.
"Here how this is going to go." Roger said, picking up the Quaffle he'd thrown at me earlier. "I'll give you a few minutes to get used to flying. Then I'll fly up." He held out his broom. "With the Quaffle, and we'll see how good we can get you."
"Sounds like a plan." I replied, taking a deep breath.
"Good, whenever you're ready." Roger told me, I nodded, took several more breaths, then kicked and started into the air.
As I soared into the sky, I tried my best not to fall, maintain my balance, and not to make a fool out of myself. I tried to remember everything Madam Hooch had told us, the correct way to grip a broom, how to move forwards and backwards, up and down.
After a few minutes I felt comfortable, and I was actually beginning to enjoy it. The flow of the air through my hair, the brilliant view of the evening sky, and the Forbidden Forest. I started to go faster, and soon enough I began flying faster and faster until I was zipping around the pitch at high speeds.
This was actually really fun.
"Enjoying ourselves?" Roger asked as he flew up, Quaffle in hand.
I nodded. "I didn't know flying was this fun." I admitted, and he smiled.
"I know, especially this time of day. Sun's just about to sun, a gentle breeze, great view. Enough small talk, are you ready?" He asked holding up the Quaffle.
"I guess...how are we doing this?" I asked, and he pointed to the hoops on either end of the pitch.
"We're going to play one on one..." Roger explained, I swallowed and he laughed. "Don't worry, I'll go easy on you." He promised, and I nodded.
"Okay." I replied, as he started towards the hoops at the far end of the pitch. "Go to the other end." He told me, I flew over and hovered in front of the hoops, and saw the Roger had done the same.
"Ready, set, Go!" He shouted as we both started flying to the center of the pitch. When we were passing each other, he threw me the Quaffle. I surprised myself as I caught it. "Now, as hard as you can, throw it through the center hoop!" Roger told me as I approached the hoops. Then, with all the strength I could muster. Again I surprised myself as it through the hoop accurately.
I looked at my arm in shock as Roger flew over, he looked overjoyed at how everything was playing out. "Well done, let's see if you can keep it up."
He flew down, and Cho threw him the Quaffle. For the next half hour we repeated what we did had just done but with different hoops. Eventually we started throwing the Quaffle back and forth between each other, all the while going in increasingly difficult speeds and angles. After around an hour, as the sun was starting to set, we landed. Roger, and Cho both had massive grins.
"I told you." Cho said as we landed. "She's brilliant, with a bit more work she could be the best Chaser in years." Roger gave her a pointed look. "Other than you of course."
"Of course." Roger replied rolling his eyes. The pair then turned to me and I handed Cho back her broom.
"You were amazing." Cho said encouragingly, and I looked at her skeptically.
"You're not just saying that?" I asked, and she laughed.
"Don't be modest Sarah, you were amazing." Cho exclaimed, I turned to Roger who nodded.
"You were. Though their still some kinks to work out, but by the time of our first match in November, but I'm positive we can work them out."
"So, I'm on the team?" I asked, and Roger nodded.
"I'll talk to Professor Flitwick, and Madam Hooch. We start Practice as a team the Sunday after next. Don't worry, I'll have Cho remind you. There really only two things that you need to do."
"That is?"
"First, like we've talked about, you need a broom. You can use school brooms for practice, but for our first match you really need a broom." Roger said, I nodded.
"The second thing?" I asked, and the pair shared a look.
"Listen...nobody, and I mean nobody, can know about this. We want Hufflepuff to be shocked when you're out there. No one, not your friends, not even Harry can know." Cho cautioned me, and I looked at her in shock.
"But...Harry told me when he made the team." I said, and Roger sighed.
"I know, and by the time of the game everyone knew. I know it will be difficult. But the only people who can know amongst the student body are us three, and the rest of the team. Not even your year mates can know..." He told me, and I remembered how nervous Anthony was...
"Anthony already knows." I said, and Roger frowned at Cho.
"Oh yeah, I remember Cho telling me about that..." Cho coughed. "I guess you can talk to him about it in private. But not a word to anyone else. If this get out...well let's say it won't be hard to know who talked."
I sighed, then nodded. "Fine, outside of Anthony, I won't tell anyone about this." I promised, feeling horrible and imagining Harry's betrayed face. "I'll just tell Harry that a condition to make the team was secrecy."
"Well...it is." Cho admitted shrugging. And I nodded.
"So, get a broom, show up to practice, and don't say anything...anything else?" I asked, and the pair thought, before shaking there heads.
"No, remember the Sunday after next. Robes will be waiting for you...make sure you're not followed."
"I'll make sure she's not." Cho promised, and Roger nodded.
"Good...we better get back to the Common Room." Roger said, looking at the orange tinted sky. "Curfew should be starting soon."
"Best get out brooms to the shed." Cho said. "See you later." Cho said as she and Roger sped off, leaving me to head back to the castle. Thoughts swirling through my head...
I was on the Quidditch team, and no one except Anthony could know...How was I supposed to explain where I was during practice. I knew Anthony would cover for me, he knew how Quidditch players acted and what was going. Still, I felt horrible. I should be able to tell Lisa...and Harry too.
I finally reached the entrance to the castle, and found I had around ten minutes left until curfew. I breathed a sigh of relief and started down the corridor...
"HOOT!"
I paused at the sudden sound of Owl's screeching, and wings flapping. I looked around and noticed that I was passing the West tower, the owlery, and I thought back to what had happened at dinner.
"I Hid them under the Owlery stairs..."
I scowled at the thought, and looked at the owlery, then down the corridor...I knew I needed to hurry. Curfew would be starting soon, and if Professor McGonagall or Filch caught me...
Still, Luna needed her shoes, and I knew where they were.
I took a deep breath, then hurried over to the stairs that led up towards the Owlery, knowing I needed to be quick if I had any chance of getting back in time. As I entered the owlery I noticed the floor was covered in straw, what looked like mice skeletons were scattered everywhere and it smelled horribly.
I grimaced as I tried not to puke, then started looking around the room. It was circular with a multitude of windows with no glass giving the room a steady breeze. Owl's were perched in many different nooks and crevices. All stared at me wide eyed. I saw Uric chip happily, and I gave him a smile. I then saw a staircase that led to another floor. I stepped behind the staircase and looked around. Sure enough, under some straw, were a pair of brightly colored shoes.
I had to smile, these looked just like her magazine she carried everywhere.
"She certainly is unique." I said to myself as I picked the pair up, and wiped the straw off. As soon as the last piece of straw fell to the floor, I started out of the room, giving Uric a small pet, then racing down the stairs towards the main castle.
When I reached the corridor, I noticed I had two minutes to race up several flights of stairs and make it back to the common room. As quickly as I could I ran, almost falling down several times. I just made it to the entryway to the spiral staircase when the bell rang.
"Darn it." I whispered to myself, then took a deep breath. I was only a minute away from the Common Room, if anyone did find me I'm sure they would just tell me to hurry on my way...
"Well, Well, what do we have here."
I froze and turned to see Mr. Filch grinning at me evilly. After a second to compose myself, I spoke.
"I'm a minute late, and clearly heading to my Common Room." I replied, and Filch grinned widened.
"A minute late is a minute late, dear." He replied gleefully, and I gulped. "Now let's take a nice walk down to my office, and I'll fill out your detention form."
"What's going on here?"
The voice of Professor Lockhart strolling down the corridor towards us made me release a breath I didn't know I was holding. The cheerful expression on Filch's face fade, as he rolled his eyes behind Professor Lockhart's back, then turned to the man.
"Professor." Filch began, pointing his finger at me accusingly. "This student was clearly out after curfew, clearly she should disciplined."
Lockhart gave Filch a smile. "Why Argus, it's only been a couple of minutes. And Miss Potter here is clearly on her way back to her common room. Surely we can make a small exception in this case." When Lockhart finished, he gave me a wink, and I cleared my throat, trying not to go red in front of Filch, who looked murderous.
"Her and her brother are trouble makers!" Filch countered, glaring at me. "As was their father! Her and her brother get enough special treatment, the only way to stop their mischief is strict discipline." Filch demanded, and Lockhart laughed.
"Oh Argus, you can't be seriously be comparing the girl being out a couple minutes late, to James Potter." Lockhart replied. I stared wide eyes at the man, he knew my father, while Filch continued.
"Better to stop them before they reach that point." He countered, and Lockhart sighed.
"Very well Argus, I'll deal with this." Lockhart replied, and Filch seemed to perk up.
"Yes sir, I suggest the whips..."
"You may go Argus." Lockhart said, Filch frowned, as he strode off. Mrs. Norris following closely behind, as soon as he was out of ear shot Lockhart chuckled. "Mr. Filch hasn't changed much over the year. Unlike me, who's gone from promising student to great crusader against the dark forces."
Lockhart then turned to me, as I continued to look at him in shock. "You knew my father?" I asked, and Lockhart smirked.
"Knew of him, he was four years ahead of me." He replied, and I looked at him pleading.
"Tell me more..." I begged and Lockhart nodded.
"Of course I will, tomorrow night during your detention, which you shall serve with me." Lockhart told me, and I stared at him in shock.
"But sir...I'm only a few minutes late." I begged, and he shook his head.
"Don't worry Miss Potter, this will be less of a Detention and more of a conversation. I've been wanting to talk with you and Harry together since I arrived." Lockhart explained, and I tilted my head in confusion.
"Harry will be there?" I asked, and Lockhart nodded.
"Why of course, he still has to serve Detention for his episode with the Whopping Willow. Now enough stalling, you best get to your common room. I'm sure Miss Lovegood will be thrilled to get her missing shoes." Lockhart told me, and I looked at him with even more shock.
"How did you..."
"A great fighter of the dark arts such as myself is always vigilant." He explained, smiling proudly, and I looked at him in amazement.
"You really are amazing sir." I said, and Lockhart nodded.
"I'm well aware Miss Potter, now off to bed." He said, motioning into the entryway. I nodded and started up the spiral staircase. "One last thing Miss Potter." Lockhart called, as I turned back to him eagerly. "Ten points for helping a fellow student." He told me with one final smile, and I once again felt my cheeks go red.
"T...thank you sir. Good night."
"Good night Miss Potter." Lockhart replied, and with a whirl of his cloak he was off. I made my way up the spiral staircase, answered the riddle, and entered the Common Room. As the door closed behind me, Lisa rushed over, a worried a expression on her face.
"Where have you been?" She demanded, and I waved her off.
"It's a long story." I replied, thinking back to everything that had happened today. Lisa raised and eyebrow. "Don't worry, I didn't lose any points." I assured her, and she frowned.
"Who gave you detention, and why were you late in the first place. Heck, what did Cho want in the first place?"
"Nothing really." I lied, feeling a pit of guilt as I glanced over to where Cho was sitting. "Where's Anthony?" I asked, and Lisa motioned to a chair in the corner, his nose in a book.
"He's obsessing again." She explained, and I nodded.
"Don't we all."
The two of us walked into the packed common room. Both Cho, and Roger gave me pointed looks, but other than that no one seemed to notice that I was a little late. I looked around the room for Luna, and noticed the girl, reading the Quibbler alone in the corner. The other first years sat a fair distance away, glancing at her and smirking.
"That reminds me." I said, as Lisa looked at me confused. I smiled at her as I walked over to Luna. "Excuse me."
The dreamy eyed girl looked up at me. "Yes?" She replied politely.
"Are these yours?" I asked, pulling out the pair of colorful footwear. When Luna saw them she perked up, and nodded.
"They are." She replied, as I held them out. She took them, and gave me a thankful look. "Thank you." She said, and I smiled.
"No problem. "I replied. "Try not to leave them in the Owlery next time."
"The Owlery? That's where the Nargles took them." She said, looking thoughtful as she put her shoes back on. I noticed Lisa look at the girl oddly, but I just smiled.
"Must have. "I replied, throwing a glance at the other first years. All who sank into their seats at my stare. "Just...be careful." I warned her.
"I will." She promised, and I nodded.
"Good. "I replied, then turned and started towards the other second years.
"Who did it?" Lisa asked me in a whisper, and I frowned.
"The other first years." I replied, and Lisa gave them a disapproving look.
"Well, I'm glad you found them." She said as we sat on the loveseat next to Anthony, who only acknowledged us with a low grunt. "Still, the girl is odd..."
"And we aren't? I mean, we've done some odd things, heck I'm still slightly obsessed with Grindelwald, not to mention Anthony's..."
"You know I'm right here?" He asked, as I laughed.
"Still, you get my point." I replied, and Lisa nodded.
"I do." Lisa admitted. "Now, who gave you Detention?" Lisa demanded, and I smirked.
"Lisa, you really are perceptive, you know that?" I asked, as the girl smirked.
"Thank you, now tell me."
"Well I was at the foot of the spiraling stairs when Filch caught me out after curfew by one minute." I began, and Lisa looked horrified.
"What'd he..."
"But that's when Professor Lockhart arrived and..."
I spent the next several minutes telling Lisa, and, when he finally looked up from his book, Anthony, about what had happened with Lockhart, how I overheard the first years talking about hiding Luna's shoes. I was forced to lie to Lisa and tell her Cho wanted help with her Charm's homework, though the look she gave me told me she knew I was lying. Finally, with a visit to Hagrid's scheduled for the morning, we all retired. And finally I was able to rest after a long, busy, first week back.