This is sort of my reaction to leaving Hogwarts. Contains characters who have died, but in my eyes they will always be there, no matter what.


She entered the Gryffindor common room somewhat timidly, feeling the tears well in her eyes. This was the last time she'd step foot in this warm, cozy sanctuary that was Hogwarts.

Students were spread throughout the common room, saying their final goodbyes and offering their final embraces. Across the room, Fred and George were peddling their wares of mischief to innocent first-years. Dean and Seamus were deeply engaged in a game of wizard's chess, as Neville looked on enthusiastically. Colin Creevy paced about the room, his camera capturing every detail of the last night of the common room. There was only one group in the room, however, that this girl needed to find.

She found them by the roaring fire, and in that instant it was as if the rest of the common room vanished.

She approached them nervously. These were some of her closest friends, the people who had been there with her as she was there for them. Yet somehow, she feared they had lost her in that great crowd—that mass of millions; that following that had all begun with an inspired woman and a late train.

She hugged each of them in turn: first Hermione, who had taught her to never be ashamed of her love of books and sharp mind, no matter what; second, Ron, who taught her that no matter how hard things get, a friend is a friend, and will always be there for you.

Finally, she put her arms about Harry, who pulled her close to him. Harry James Potter: the boy who taught her simply how to be, how to be the best person you could, no matter what.

Then, the rest of the Gryffindors rose, crossing the room to offer her warm embraces. It wasn't only Gryffindor; every student, every teacher…every friend she had found along the way was there, offering her words of encouragement and warm embraces, brisk handshakes and pats on the arm. Albus Dumbledore's eyes glistened as brightly as she remembered. Hagrid's bear hug enveloped her in warm safety, while Snape's curt nod was not of immense warmth, but of respect and understanding. Her world, that she would never forget, would never forget her…

As she walked through Diagon Alley, remembering the times she had peered curiously through the windows to see the cauldrons, broomsticks and books, new in the store windows. There, in front of his store bowing respectfully, was Mr. Ollivander. The girl reached into her robes, extracting her wand and holding it out for the man.

"I won't need it anymore," she said, but he shook his head briskly.

"You will need it," he said. "For you will return."

Tucking the wand back into her robes, she gave the man a gentle smile and continued on her way. Through the Leaky Cauldron she walked, remembering fondly the taste of butterbeer on her lips. She gave Tom the innkeeper a little wave, which he returned as she continued out through the door…

She had long feared the world outside would be bleak and dark as a Dementor's coattails, but it was not so. Gripping her wand a little more tightly, she walked out into the muggle world, knowing that, in spite of all appearances, she was among so many wizards and witches.


Thanks for reading! Reviews are very much appreciated.

XOXO,
Bella