Although she knew the cruel reality, Hermione didn't stay downcast for long.
After lying face-down on the table in silence for half an hour, Hermione perked up again.
"I've figured it out! Only if I grow stronger can I change all this! I've decided to study hard. My goal is to become Minister for Magic!"
"Then good luck," Harley replied lazily, turning another page in the book Fifty Rare Plants Nearing Extinction.
She didn't believe Hermione could achieve a goal that was nearly impossible—unless Harley really could find all the materials needed for the Demoness of Catastrophe.
Then Harley could complete the ritual by starting a war, a catastrophe aimed at the Pure-bloods.
Only under those circumstances would Hermione have a chance to break free of the Pure-blood families' constraints and become Minister for Magic.
As for any other scenario... Harley thought she might as well go to sleep. After all, anything was possible in a dream.
The Christmas holidays were delightful. With almost no one in the library, Madam Pince no longer minded students talking loudly.
In fact, Harley and Hermione were the only ones who spent much time in the library.
Percy and the Weasley Twins also dropped by from time to time.
Percy came to study books about the Ministry of Magic's systems, preparing for his ambitions after graduation. After all, he'd always been an ambitious person.
Fred and George, meanwhile, browsed all kinds of obscure books on Transfiguration and Potions, often muttering to each other.
Harley thought she might have a chance to talk with them a little. The Potion books they were reading weren't easy.
As for students from the other houses, the few who had stayed behind clearly preferred the warmth of the fireplaces in their common rooms, so they never showed up