#3 - Preparing for war.

'Sorry, sorry.' Jacob rushed to catch up with Ronan, ducking into some shadows near the still-life painting entrance. 'I was trying to avoid Mrs Norris. Though, it's possible I just ran away from someone's random pet cat.' He ate the last of a pastry he'd thieved from the Great Hall before dessert was over.

He entered the kitchens and was careful not to get in the way of any busy house-elves. Jacob had been there many times over the years, but didn't know any specific house-elf to seek out or ask from. Being friendly and polite was certainly the most important thing.

'Hello.' He waved at the elves. 'My friend and I were hoping you had some leftover snacks or something delicious we could share with our fellow Gryffindors tonight? We're having a party to celebrate our new captain.' Jacob glanced around hopefully, tempted to just grab things but that hadn't ended well for him the first time he'd visited.

Pakby blinked his wide eyes at the two boys, confused by the interactions but understanding enough of their request to be able to deliver. 'Yes sirs, I is understanding,' he said. 'Pakby would be happy to help.' He hurried to give instructions to other elves.

They gathered two large wicker baskets, and began filling them with all sorts of treats. There were pastries, fruit, owl-shaped chocolates, fizzy drinks, and banana muffins. It took a few elves per basket to carry them over to the boys, one for each Jacob and Ronan, then they returned to work.

'You is needing anything else?' Pakby wondered.