The setting sun cast long shadows across the grass as Harry, Hermione, and Ron made their way back from Hagrid's hut. The air was crisp, carrying the distant sounds of students enjoying the last of the daylight around the Quidditch pitch, where teams practiced maneuvers in preparation for upcoming matches.

"You know, if we organize the research now, we could split it up and have the draft ready by next weekend," she was saying, adjusting the strap of her bag as it slipped from her shoulder.

Ron, whose interest in the homework was significantly less than Hermione's, munched on his pasty and interjected with a less enthusiastic tone. "Or, we could use one of Fred and George’s Extendable Ears to pick up a few pointers from the Ravenclaws. They always start their essays early."

Hermione shot him a disapproving look. "That would be cheating, Ron," she chided, though the corners of her mouth twitched upwards. "Besides, it’s about understanding the material, not just handing in the work."

Ron rolled his eyes, crumbs falling from his lips. "Oh, come off it, Hermione. It’s just a thought."

Harry laughed, the sound mixing with the shouts of the Quidditch players in the distance. "Yeah, Hermione, let's not rule out all of Ron’s ideas. Some of them are quite—"

"Brilliant?" Ron offered with a hopeful grin, earning an exaggerated sigh from Hermione.

"No, but sometimes useful," Harry finished, and they all laughed, the tension of the past week momentarily forgotten.

Harry stopped and turned towards Hermoine and Ron "You both know things are going to get more difficult, don't you? With Umbridge and everything else..."

Hermione nodded, her face set in a determined line. "We know, Harry. But we’ll face whatever comes, together."

Ron clapped Harry on the back, his smile rueful. "Can't be worse than a herd of angry centaurs or a giant spider, can it?"

"Or detention with Umbridge," Hermione added, the distaste clear in her voice