"They're saying that?" Draco said with genuine surprise, before he could stop himself. "Really. Well, isn't that typical. The last time this happened, I desperately wanted people to say it was because of me. But then I was thoroughly an idiot back then. I suppose Potter isn't around this time for the finger-pointing."

But he ought to call him. This monster rumor was getting a bit too serious for him to ignore much longer, and Harry might have some tips, he'd done enough monster-hunting when they'd been at school. And afterward he'd go to McGonagall, see what she thought about it.

That was something to pursue later, though. In the meantime, he still had a trouble, terrified student on his hands, although he seemed to be regaining his anger. Draco hadn't thought he'd ever be pleased to see that. "I'll manage my concern for myself, thank you. If you're going to bolt and go about your day as if this never happened, I'd advise you to tidy that up first," he nodded at Jackson's ear. It looked like the source of the goo had dried up, but it was still there.