First Strike

~~~(POV: Alexander Aevum)~~~ i

~~~(Location: Gryffindor's Common Room)~~~

~~~(Date: September 2nd, 1991)~~~

~~~(Time: 6:25 PM)~~~

I point my wand at the group of boys since the original guy that attacked me is wandless. I don't know their problem with me, but it's time I found out.

"Why are you guys mad at me? I haven't done anything to you."

I watch as the smelly slime hits the floor. The smell is worsening, and some kids have either left or gone to their dorms. Granger is standing right behind me, I look at her, and she has her wand out too.

Just in case.

I appreciate the notion but don't want her to get involved in my problems. I nod for her to leave, but she stands there defiantly.

Have it your way, Granger. The leader tries to stand up, but he slips on the slime and shouts plenty of expletives.

"A group of Slytherins did this to us! They told us to tell you they'll get back at you!!"

They're mad at me for something the Slytherins did. Relatively shallow if I have a say. I'll admit, I didn't think Malfoy and his followers would retaliate so fast.

"We're in this state because of you!!"

He's royally pissed off. This is good news, though. I already have the attention on me instead of Granger.

I holster my wand, knowing this situation isn't going anywhere.

"I suggest you get a teacher to help with whatever's happened. I would apologize, but I don't apologize when someone attacks me. Maybe next time, you'll be ready."

The leader of the group looks at me in frustration and annoyance. Deep down, he knows he can't blame me for this, so he'll have to drop it. His friends come over and help him up. They all struggle to balance as the slime makes it slippery.

They slowly make their way out of the common room and into The Grand Staircase. They're going to Professor McGonagall for help. At least, I hope that's what they're doing. I sigh and turn toward Granger.

"Now that I have Malfoy's attention. Take this time to get stronger. Now, I'm pretty tired from all the work I've done today, so I'm going to bed. I suggest you do the same, Hermione."

She smiles as I say her first name instead of her last name. She nods, and we climb the staircase and split up to head into separate dorms.

I make my way to my bed, and some of the boys in my year talk to each other as they lay in their beds. I plop down and ignore whatever conversation they're having.

"What was that all about?"

I hear the familiar voice of Neville coming from my left. I open my eyes and turn my head. His bed is a few beds away, but I can hear him. I suppose the commotion downstairs in the common room would cause problems.

Hmm... I have an idea...

Neville certainly needs a way out of his shell, and I need some help with the Slytherins.

This could be a perfect opportunity for him to make a good impression on his fellow Gryffindors.

"Neville."

He raises his head slightly as I say his name.

"How do you feel about helping me with something?"

I watch as his face morphs into confusion and worry. He doesn't know what to say.

"I'll keep it brief. I need some help dealing with Slytherins. You up for the challenge?"

I don't think he is, but there is nothing wrong with asking him. Who knows, he might even want to. I see him think about it and, after some deliberation. He speaks.

I watch him adopt a slightly sad look.

"I'm not the type to go pick fights... I don't want to cause any trouble..."

He looks at me as if asking if it's alright to think like that. I nod my head, and he has a visible sign of relief. Maybe he'll be up for it when he's a little older. He's too timid and nervous now. Too worried about what others think.

"What did you have planned anyways..."

Now, that's privileged information. I grin slightly and turn away from him as I close my eyes.

"Fair enough..."

He gives up, and soon the room quiets, and I delve into my thoughts.