"I understand that," he commented. He too had needed a break from the common room. Ned sometimes wondered if other houses were just as rowdy in their shared living spaces. He didn't dislike it, but, sometimes, it became too much. "The Davies brothers were starting up a round of Exploding Snap as I was leaving." Which never bode well for peace and productivity.

In lieu of staring down at Sloane, Ned plopped down next to her and stretched out his legs comfortably. He patiently listened to her metamorphmagus woes, not knowledgeable enough in the subject to offer up any truly informed advice. "It's not all that strange. I suppose it's similar to before you attend Hogwarts; you have no control then. The difference is there isn't a school for your abilities." Which seemed like a logical explanation as to why she hadn't yet mastered it.

"Oh, I just wanted a walk," Ned shrugged. He was often taking walks to clear his head.