Chapter 6

On Saturday morning, all seventh-year prefects and the respective Head Students gathered in Dumbledore's office for an important meeting. Present were Marcus and Victoria, the newly appointed Head Students, sitting alongside Hannah Turner, a Gryffindor prefect. As Victoria looked around the room, her gaze lingered on the familiar faces of Adrian Burke and Isabelle Rowle, representing Slytherin. She knew them from their occasional gatherings at the Sacred 28 dinners, which they all had attended as part of their pureblood upbringing.

Dumbledore‘s eyes twinkled behind his half-moon glasses as he welcomed them all. "My dear students, as we embark on this new school year, we find ourselves with responsibilities that are both solemn and crucial. I'm pleased to see such dedicated students taking on the roles of Head Students this year," Dumbledore began, his voice carrying the weight of his years of wisdom.
Jealous glances were thrown at Victoria and Marcus, their fellow students envious of the responsibilities bestowed upon them. Undeterred, Victoria maintained her composure, nodding politely in acknowledgment as she exchanged a meaningful glance with Marcus.

“I have gathered you all here today as the Triwizard tournament this year will bring along some more unforeseen responsibilities that can only be trusted upon our last year students. “ He cleared his throat, “These responsibilities include overseeing the safety and well-being of our students but also our guests during the tournament, assisting with the organisation and coordination of tournament events, and ensuring that Hogwarts upholds its esteemed reputation as host. As our most experienced and trusted students, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success and smooth operation.”
"After the events of the past year, it is of utmost importance that we ensure the safety and security of Hogwarts, especially now with the school's reputation at stake. Therefore, we have decided to emphasise the importance of patrolling the castle after hours. The safety of our students is paramount."
He continued, "Each house will take turns patrolling different sections of the castle and its surroundings. Ravenclaw and Gryffindor will share the upper part of the castle, while Hufflepuff and Slytherin will be responsible for the lower part of the castle.“

Dumbledore continued, his wise and reassuring tone filling the room, "You are free to change up your pairs as long as there are two people on patrol.” He chuckled, “This is to make sure you don’t grow tired of your housemate or if a particular day doesn't fit your schedule.”

“Starting in November, lower-year prefects will join the patrols inside the castle, allowing you to extend your watch to areas beyond Hogwarts' walls, as Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will grace us with their presence.”

Victoria, Marcus, and Hannah listened intently, knowing that Dumbledore's words carried great weight.

"Patrolling the castle after curfew is a vital aspect of your duties," Professor Dumbledore continued. "It serves not only to maintain discipline but, more importantly, to provide a safe environment for all our students."

Nina Patel, a Hufflepuff prefect, nodded in agreement, aware of the need for increased vigilance. John Matthews, who had experienced many adventures with his fellow Gryffindors, shared a determined look with his peers.

Dumbledore handed out detailed patrolling schedules, emphasising the different areas of the castle and the importance of pairs working together.
Marcus exchanged a nod with John Matthews, silently acknowledging their shared responsibility. Hannah Turner looked determined to uphold her role.
As the meeting concluded, Professor Dumbledore's parting words were filled with gravitas: "Remember that the security of Hogwarts rests, in part, on your shoulders. Carry out your duties with the utmost seriousness, and may your endeavours be fruitful. Dismissed."

As the last year students left Dumbledore's office, Adrian Burke approached Victoria, nodding in acknowledgment. "A familiar face among the Head Students, Ollivander. It's good to see someone who values our traditions."
Victoria returned the nod with a polite smile, though she couldn't help but feel the tension in the air. "Yes, indeed, Burke. Our responsibilities are crucial, especially in these times."

Isabelle Rowle chimed in, her voice laced with the subtle arrogance that often came with pureblood heritage. "Well, well, if it isn't Victoria Ollivander," she remarked with a smirk. “It’s been a while,” she remarked. “Congratulations on the head girl position, Ollivander; your parents must be pleased,” her tone turned icy. “But don’t forget, Ollivander, we may come from different houses, but we share a common heritage."

Victoria nodded in agreement, retaining her steadiness. "Certainly, Rowle, we do share a common heritage which fosters the unity that brings us together in our mission to defend Hogwarts,“ she replied diplomatically, not delving into the nuances of their respective family backgrounds.

Hannah Turner, joined the conversation with her trademark Gryffindor boldness, oblivious of the tension. "Unity among the houses is essential, but let's not forget that Gryffindor has its own strengths to bring to the table."

Marcus, who had been quietly observing the interactions, interjected, "Agreed, Hannah. Each house has its unique qualities, and together, we can make Hogwarts safer than ever."

Isabelle Rowle, with a sly smile, rolled her eyes at the Gryffindor's enthusiasm and exchanged a knowing glance with Adrian Burke before they left the room. The rest of the students shared a good-natured laugh at the Slytherins' nonchalant response.

As the other prefects left Dumbledore's office, Victoria turned to Marcus, her tone thoughtful and composed, "This is your chance, Marcus. Perhaps it's time to consider asking her out."

Marcus, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness, didn't need any more encouragement. Without hesitation, he hurried after Hannah as she left the room, determined to seize the opportunity to ask her on a date.
Marcus took a deep breath, his heart racing with both excitement and nervousness. He spotted her walking a short distance ahead, her raven hair shining due to the soft glow of morning light streaming through the castle windows. Gathering his courage, he quickened his pace to catch up with her.
"Hannah," he said, the hint of nervousness evident in his voice. He could feel his pulse quickening, hoping desperately that she wouldn’t notice. "About what you said earlier... about Quidditch being cancelled and your free Saturday afternoons..."

Hannah turned to him, a curious expression on her face. "Yes, Marcus?" He mustered up all his courage. “Listen, I know it's Saturday morning, but if your Saturday afternoon is still free, I would love to take you to Hogsmeade later, grab a butterbeer, maybe take a walk by the lake,” he rattled.

Hannah's eyes lit up with a smile as she realised Marcus was asking her out. "I'd love that, Marcus," she replied, her voice filled with warmth.

A wide smile spread across Marcus's face. "Great! I'll meet you at the entrance to Hogsmeade this afternoon, then."
Marcus turned around to see Victoria standing at the other side of the hallway, giving a subtle thumbs-up.