The Tribrid and Her Prison {COMPLETE}

Two Can Play

November passed slower than the other months, and Hope knew why. Everyone was busy getting ready for the end of the first term in December, coming in a few short weeks, and Hope couldn't help through it. She supported Newt as best she could, but he was also busy preparing his students for the Holidays, not wanting them to lose everything they'd learned over Christmas break.

Occasionally they'd sneak a moment together, but at the end of the day, Newt was so exhausted she would stroke her fingers through his hair, and he'd be out like a light. She didn't blame him, not in the least, and he kept telling her he'd make it up to her.

She'd roll her eyes and tell him, in the most affectionate way possible, to shut up and go to sleep so he could be at his best tomorrow.

It was a chilly Saturday in late November, but not freezing with rain like it had been. Newt was in London to discuss some matters with the Ministry about Wingedback's move from Britain to America.

Hope decided to greet the surprisingly calm day with some time spent in the courtyard. She sat down on the grassy ground with a Wizards Chess set, her chin on her knee as she played against herself.

A group of giggling made Hope look up, raising an eyebrow at a group of Slytherin girls who seemed to be exchanging glances with each other. Then, one said loudly, "I suppose since it's such a nice day, we might as well explore the grounds."

They looked to be second or third years, though some first years also mingled with them. Looking up to the others with giggles as if trying to hold back their laughter from whatever prank they were trying to pull.

Hope was the only one in the vicinity, so she imagined she was the intended target.

"I guess the Forbidden Forest will have to do." The girl, Hope now recognized as Sarah - a fourth year with long blonde hair and equally pale skin - said. Sarah seemed a ring leader amongst the Slytherin girls.

And she seemed to be trying to get Hope's attention.

"Off we go..."

"Have fun." Hope called to them, making them stop in their tracks. Two could play at this game.

Sarah seemed stunned for a moment, but only briefly before retorting. "Aw, don't think you can stop us?"

"Nope, not even going to try," Hope said, moving another piece on her chess board and looking up with a smile. "You have fun, though."

Sarah stared at her with vivid, angry blue eyes.

"We...we will," Sarah sneered, "obviously the Forest is more interesting than this place."

"Oh, no, I meant to have fun in detention," Hope smiled, her eyes sparkling, "because that's where you'll be when they catch you." She paused. "Well, that or between the teeth of a troll."

One of the first years whispered in a panic to another girl, asking if there were really trolls in the Forest.

Sarah seemed at a loss for words until she smirked. "Okay, fine. You have fun playing your stupid little game for children, and we'll be in the arms of death."

Hope nodded. "Sounds like a plan. Honestly, I wouldn't expect anything less. It's a bit challenging for those of...weaker mind." She gestured to the game.

A light flared in Sarah's eyes as she stalked over to Hope. "I am not weak!"

"Who said you were?" Hope asked, tilting her head, hiding her smile.

"You did!"

"I said no such thing."

Sarah huffed, her pale cheeks burning bright red now.