I think lav-lav is a lot like cho chang. We don't really know anything about her. She's just an obstacle or diversion for Ron. It will be interesting to see if this love potion can come between her and Ron.

You would think by now Slughorn would know all of his student's names. Although Ron isn't part of his collection, so that may explain why he called him Ralph.

What I don't understand is that mead was meant for Dumbledore. I don't think Slug is trying to poison Dumbledore. Otherwise he would have made sure to give him the gift. I'm most surprised about his actions or lack of action in trying to help save Ron. What kind of professor doesn't come to a student's aid?