We haven't got much time. There's talk of a dark wizard on the loose in Hogwarts.
I think I know who it might be.
You do? Who is it? We need to be careful and gather evidence before we accuse anyone. We can't afford any more scandals or danger at Hogwarts.
He’s a Slytherin. He tried kissing me when no one was looking.
That's serious, Victoria. We'll have to be discreet and gather evidence against him. But don't worry, we'll make sure he pays for his actions.
No, no! You misunderstand, it was YOU, that tried to kiss me.
taken aback Victoria, that's not true! I would never do something like that without your consent. Are you sure you're not mistaken?
How could I be? You’ve been making me uncomfortable all day long. And now you’re saying I’m mistaken? Well excuse me, I am definitely not mistaken.
voice rising Victoria, I assure you, this is a misunderstanding! I would never force myself on anyone, let alone you.
Well, then prove it. Show me that you aren’t trying to kiss me right now.
steps back and holds up her hands Alright, Victoria, I will prove it to you. Look into my eyes and tell me if you see any intentions other than honesty. locks eyes with Victoria
Okay….looks at you intensely
softly Victoria, I understand that you may feel uncomfortable right now, but please trust me.
blushing slightly I...I do trust you, Hermione. I just... I thought you were being forward earlier. But I guess I was mistaken. Sorry for jumping to conclusions.
takes Victoria's hands in hers Victoria, I appreciate your apology, but I want to make sure you feel safe and respected.
Of course, I wouldn’t want anything less. Especially not with you.
smiles warmly Thank you, Victoria. Your trust means the world to me. Let's put this behind us and focus on what really matters - our friendship.
Absolutely. smiles back Friends it is then.
puts her arm around Victoria Come on, let's go grab some butterbeers and talk about something else.
Sounds like a plan. Lead the way, Hermionie.
leads Victoria out of the Room of Requirement, chatting and laughing So, have you heard about the latest Quidditch match? Gryffindor did quite well, didn't they?
Yeah, I saw it. They had some amazing moves. Did you see that Bludger shot?
laughs Oh, I saw it alright! That Bludger was flying straight for Oliver Wood's head! But luckily, he managed to dodge it just in time.
giggles Yeah, he's really quick. I'm surprised he didn't get hit.
pauses, looking thoughtful You know, Victoria, I've been doing some research lately on Ancient Runes. Have you ever considered studying it?
Hmm, no, I haven't. Why do you ask?
Well, Ancient Runes is a fascinating subject that explores the mystical and magical symbols of the past.
That does sound intriguing... I'd love to learn more about it.
excitedly Perfect! We can start practicing together right away. I have some notes and texts that I think you'll find helpful.
That sounds wonderful, Hermione. I'm really looking forward to it.
pulls out her bag and begins organizing her books and notes Great! Let's sit down here by the Gryffindor common room and get started.
Sounds good to me. sits down next to Hermione
opens her Ancient Runes textbook and flips through the pages
Wow, this book looks ancient... Is it the real deal or just a replica?
Oh, it's the real deal, Victoria. This book dates back centuries and contains the most powerful and mysterious runes of all time.
Holy cow! That's incredible, Hermione. I can't believe you have access to something so rare.
smirks Well, you know me, Victoria. I always manage to find hidden treasures and unravel ancient secrets. It's just another day at Hogwarts for me.
I bet. You always surprise me, Hermione.
Thank you, Victoria. It's all thanks to my passion for learning and my dedication to uncovering the truth.
So, where did you find this book?
Ah, the story of how I found this book is quite fascinating. You see, during one of my late-night studies in the Restricted Section of the library, I stumbled upon a hidden compartment behind one of the bookshelves. Inside, I found this very book, dusty and forgotten. But I knew its significance and knew I had to bring it back to life.
eyes widen A hidden compartment? That sounds like something straight out of a mystery novel. What else did you find in there?
Well, Victoria, inside the hidden compartment, I found a collection of ancient scrolls, some cryptic potions ingredients, and even a mysterious golden key. It was as if a whole new world was waiting for me to uncover. And that's exactly what I intend to do.
Oh wow, that sounds absolutely amazing! You really are a true Gryffindor, Hermione. So brave and daring.
Thank you, Victoria. But I couldn't have done it alone.
Oh really? So, who helped you then?
Well, I have to admit, there was someone who played a crucial role in helping me uncover the secrets of the hidden compartment.
Oh? And who might that be?
It was none other than Professor Dumbledore himself. He noticed my keen interest in ancient artifacts and gave me access to the restricted section of the library. He even provided me with a key to the hidden compartment.