Saudade

Chapter 4 The Unexpected Detention Mate Harry

Dinner in the Great Hall that night was not a pleasant experience for Harry. The news about his shouting match with Umbridge had traveled exceptionally fast even by Hogwarts' standards. But to his utter astonishment, he hadn't been the only one people were whispering about. It seems that Ophelia Malfoy too had an argument with Umbridge and from what Harry heard she had defended him. He wondered what in the world she was doing. There was no way she'd suddenly have a change of heart over the span of two months. There was something happening with her and Harry wasn't the only one thinking so. From the moment Ophelia apologized in front of her brother, Ron has been speculating that she and her brother are planning something bad for Harry. But Harry had a different theory in mind.

"She's a Death Eater," he whispered quietly to Ron and Hermione.

"What?" Hermione scoffed jokingly. "Who?"

"Ophelia," Harry hissed.

Hermione looked to Ron laughingly but Ron stared at Harry.

"Are you sure?" he said quietly.

"Not entirely sure--but it's the only explanation as to why she's being so friendly," Harry said, looking around to see if she was anywhere in the Great Hall. "Her father is one himself and is working with Voldemort, I don't see why it can't be true."

"No, it's impossible, Malfoy's too young to become a Death Eater," Hermione said dismissively.

"What? So you think Malfoy's actually turning a new leaf?" Harry snapped.

"No, of course not!" Hermione said wearily. "I'd have to agree with Ron. It could be she and Draco are pulling some kind of prank on you."

Harry let out an exasperated sigh, feeling frustrated by Hermione's words. He couldn't help but wonder if she genuinely believed what she was saying or if she, like everyone else at Hogwarts, was simply unwilling to accept the truth.

"If you're worried, maybe write to Snuffles," Hermione said, taking a last bite of her ham before standing to leave.

"She's right, I bet Snuffles will be able to help," Ron said when Hermione was out of sight. "Don't tell her I said that."

Harry let out a sigh, contemplating Hermione's words. He considered seeking Sirius' insight but worried that news of Ophelia Malfoy potentially joining Voldemort's side might prompt Sirius to leave Grimmauld Place. With a wave to Ron, Harry decided to head to the Owlery.

When Harry entered the Owlery the glassless windows dazzled his eyes; thick silvery beams of golden sunlight crisscrossed the circular room in which hundreds of owls nestled on rafters, a little restless in the early-morning light, some clearly just returned from hunting. The straw-covered floor crunched a little as he stepped across tiny animal bones. There, he took out a parchment and quill and began writing.

Dear Snuffles,

Hope you're doing well, I'm writing this on the evening of my first day, to tell you the least; it's been horrible.

We've got a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Umbridge. She's nearly as nice as your mum. But I'm writing because something is happening with a certain someone I told you about over the summer. I believe she's joined.

Please write back quickly.

Best,
Harry

"Hedwig?" Harry called out.

From above a low hoot came.

"There you are," he said, spotting her somewhere near the very top of the vaulted ceiling. "Get down here, I've got a letter for you."