Paul quietly climbed down the ladder and tried to follow Hermoine. It was only when he got off the ladder did he realize he was still carrying the sword. He looked around the corner, and when he saw it was clear, he motioned for his friend to move ahead. When she did do, Paul waited a few heartbeats before attempting to move. As soon as he put a foot out, he heard a voice. Unlike before, this voice was very familiar.

"Leaving so soon?" asked Chiron the Centaur. His wheelchair bound form appeared in the hallway right where Paul had been looking a moment before. Paul found himself floundering. "How... did you?" he asked, trying to form words. The old teacher raised his hand, a look of bemusement on his face. "I still have a few trick up my sleeves." Chiron replied before changing the subject. "Now, you know very well the consequences for going into the attic without permission. They are almost as bad as taking relics. Were you alone?" 

Paul hesitated for just a moment, thinking of Hermoine. "Yes, sir. I came alone, and all I took was this rusted piece of crap." he said as he raised the sword for Chiron to see. The centaur's eyebrows shot up. The room got awkwardly quiet, and Paul could only hope that Hermoine took the hint and got out of there.