In the next few weeks, Harry grew very busy. Between homework, Quidditch practices, extra flying with Ron Weasley (both of them on the new school brooms), and practicing with his throwing knives, his free time was shrinking rapidly. He also made a point of partnering with Neville in Potions, where he served as a lightning rod for Snape's vitriol, and even spent some time in the Gryffindor common room with Ron. (If Ron wanted to be associated with the Boy Who Lived, Harry figured, it didn't cost much to stay on his good side.)