In the blink of an eye, the new term arrived as scheduled.
Most of the students were listless and unable to muster any enthusiasm, not yet out of their holiday haze—except for a few Academic Bullies like Hermione.
The teachers, on the other hand, were as usual, especially Professor Snape, who seemed to be in a far better mood than he had been during the holidays.
That much was clear from the steadily dwindling number of point gems in Gryffindor's hourglass.
But there were exceptions.
In the first Potions Class after the holidays, Harry completed a potion with practiced ease under Snape's watchful gaze.
"Not bad potion-making," Professor Snape said behind him.
Harry turned around. His shoulder happened to be aching, so he rubbed it with his other hand, his face hidden behind his arm and revealing only a pair of green eyes.
Perhaps it was an illusion, but Professor Snape actually looked faintly pleased.
"Three points to Gryffindor, for your potion-making skills."
Ron, sitting nearby, suddenly widened his eyes before they rapidly contracted.
Merlin's socks, Professor Snape... had actually given Gryffindor points?!
Bloody hell, had the sun risen in the west today?
He secretly raised his head, wanting to see whether the professor had washed his hair today.
Unfortunately, Professor Snape's hair was still as greasy as his manner of speaking.
Draco's expression darkened further. He merely curled his lip in disdain and said nothing.
At lunch, the entire Gryffindor House was discussing this unprecedented event.
"Blimey, Professor Snape actually gave Gryffindor points!" Ron said in disbelief. "Merlin knows that ever since Snape became the Potions professor, Gryffindor has never earned points in this class!"
"Forget Professor Snape for now!" Hermione said in a low voice. "Before the holidays, I told you to keep looking around the school for