It turned out that Ernie returned far more quickly than Michael anticipated. He nodded his consent and followed Ernie.
"The clubhouse?" Michael asked in a low voice, referring to the Room of Requirement. "I don't really fancy everyone seeing me like this." In retrospect Michael realised that this was probably one of the reasons for his extended punishment. By letting his wounds heal the Muggle way, Michael served as an oh-so-convenient reminder of what happened when you talked back. A startling thought occurred to Michael.
"We can't do too much or they'll think Madame Pomfrey did it and they'll hurt her."