Unreal

Chp 100.5 Through the Pages

Fred smirked, grabbing a menu. "For a grand adventure, Angel. Don't be such a grump."

Ron groaned. "I'm starving. This better be worth it."

Hermione, ever the voice of reason, pointed at the ceiling. "I told you this was pointless, but at least the food's good."

Their bickering bounced around the table as we waited for our meals. I sat back, smiling quietly, loving the easy chaos of friendship—messy, loud, and full of life.

••••

It had been two days since the chaos in Hogsmeade, and I was still buzzing from it.

But today—today I needed a breather.

School was calling, but I decided to skip just this once. Okay, maybe it was technically "skipping," but I had a plan.

I needed to hit the library, find some books with spells that could help me for the Third Task.

Hermione had handed me a stack when I told her what I was after, giving me that "you better not waste time" look.

I walked into the dorm, tired but determined. My bed was scattered with books Hermione left for me—three thick tomes packed with spells and charms. I plopped down, flipping the covers over, and glanced at the clock on the wall. Already Charms hour, huh? Guess Fred would have to answer for himself this time.

I laughed softly, the sound light in the quiet room. "Answer by yourself now, Fred."

Opening the first book, I settled into the comforting rustle of pages. The words swam before me as I scanned for spells that might give me an edge. Here's what caught my eye:

1. "Expecto Patronum" — The classic, of course. A powerful protective charm that conjures a Patronus to ward off Dementors. Not exactly combat, but invaluable for protection. The text described the mental focus required — happy memories, unwavering concentration. I made a mental note to practice it more.

2. "Protego Maxima" — An advanced shielding charm, stronger than the basic Protego. Could create a protective barrier, perfect for guarding against dangerous magic or creatures during the task. The instructions emphasized precise wand movement and steady intention.

3. "Diffindo" — A severing charm, useful for cutting ropes or obstacles in a pinch. Practical and quick, just the kind of utility spell I'd want if things got messy underwater or in tight spaces.

4. "Luminis Velo" — Not in any textbook I'd seen before, but Hermione swore by it. A conjuration charm that creates a veil of shimmering light, perfect for underwater illumination or confusing an opponent. The spell's description was brief but intriguing — a delicate flick of the wand with a slow, swirling motion.

I flipped back, reading through the directions again, imagining how each might help me in the maze of the Third Task.

My fingers brushed the book's spine, my mind racing, heart a little steadier. I could do this. I would do this.

••••

It had been a while since I'd really sat down and gone through Hermione's stack.
Some spells made perfect sense.
Some... were so complicated I was convinced the book was mocking me.

A few were downright impossible for me right now.
Which meant one thing—time for a library trip.

With a sigh, I slid off the bed, smoothing my hair down in the mirror.
Books shut, blanket tossed aside, I tugged on my jumper and headed out.

The Ravenclaw common room was quiet, sunlight pooling across the blue-and-bronze carpet.
A couple of first-years sat by the fire, quills scratching frantically over parchment.