- Chapter 4 - Hogwarts Already?
The last night at the Burrow was the best one so far in Harry's opinion. Mrs Weasley had prepared the most gorgeous looking meal for everyone to enjoy. The room was decorated with balloons and banners reading 'FINAL YEAR' and 'GOOD LUCK'. Everyone had just finished eating there 5th course when Metzie and Dobby came and cleared it all up without even being called. It was getting very late when Fred and George came up with the best goodnight surprise for there parents. 'Anyone for a mint before they go to bed,' asked Fred, winking at Harry. 'No thanks' everyone replied except for Mr and Mrs Weasley who gratefully, yet stupidly, accepted a piece. No sooner had they started chewing that there heads started to expand to much bigger their normal size, until their heads were drooping over their necks. This brought everyone to hysterics. Even Mrs Wealsey saw the funny side to the prank. Five minutes later they were all being ushered up the stairs to bed. Ron and Harry went straight into there room and Ginny and Hermione into theirs. Harry sat down on his bed and faced Ron. 'It's almost time,' he said to Ron 'I know man, Only about another...let me see...... Twelve hours before we leave for our final year.' replied Ron. 'No not that, Hermione is knocking in a minute. Thats when I'm going to go talk to Ginny.' 'Oh yeah!!!' exclaimed Ron 'You nervous?' 'About what. I don't know what she wants to ask me. Why, do you know?' asked Harry 'Well yeah, Hermione told me outside Quality Quiddich supplies whilst you was buying your broom polish. Hermione made me swear not to tell you.' 'Any advice?' Harry asked feeling that as Ron did ask, it was probably something to be nervous about. 'Just be yourself I suppose.' 'Errr...Okay..Cheers.' Harry was not sure what to do with that advice but then again he didn't have much time to think about it. Suddenly there was three small knocks on the door. 'Show time,' Harry whispered to Ron as he slowly made his way over to the door.
Harry opened the door and was completely taken back by surprise. 'Dumbledore. Wh...Wha...What..are you doing here?'asked Harry in total shock. 'I am here Harry, doing work for the Order. We believe that Voldemorts Death Eaters will be planning an attack on Platform nine and three quarters tomorrow and there is no way of stopping it. We can't stop every witch and wizard from catching the Hogwarts Express tomorrow but we can stop Voldemorts main propriety and his friends.' smiled Dumbledore. 'What do you mean?' asked Ron, jumping up from his bed with a puzzled look on his face. 'I mean that you will be escorted tonight, by the order, to Hogwarts where you will be completely safe until tomorrows new school term.' replied Dumbledore. 'Do you mean that we're not getting the school train tomorrow?'asked Harry 'Yes' 'And we're leaving now... Me and Ron...for Hogwarts?' 'And of course Miss Weasley and Miss Granger,' added Dumbledore. 'Molly is breaking the news to them as we speak. Now come along, hurry, quickly pack your things. Remus will be getting rather impatient if we don't hurry up,' explained Dumbledore closing the door quickly behind him. Harry and Ron quickly packed all of their belongings, and made their way down the stairs. 'Wait a minute, Forgot my broomstick, said Harry rushing back up the stairs. 'You couldn't grab mine as well could you please Harry?' asked Ron laughing. 'Sure' he replied. Harry quickly grabbed both broomsticks and proceeded down the stairs. 'Now you be careful this year,' Mrs Wealsey was telling Ron and Ginny as Harry reached the bottom. 'You too Harry dear. Do be careful. I know you don't look for trouble but..... well...be careful.' Mrs Weasley added pulling Harry into Hug. 'Come along children' Called Dumbledore from the front door. 'Well, thanks for everything Mrs Weasley said Harry and Hermione in turn. 'Its been a great few weeks.' 'It was my pleasure. Good luck in your exams. Be good.' yelled Mrs Weasley as all four of them proceeded out of the door. Professor Lupin was standing next to the car, ready to pack all of their luggage in to the back. Harry couldn't believe it. He was going back to Hogwarts. His home. Where he belonged. Okay, it was a day early, but he was still going. Harry couldn't help but smile.
'Harry, so great to see you again!,' yelled Professor Lupin as he spotted Harry trudging down the path to the car. 'Here, give us your bags and go find the nicest seat,' he added throwing out his arms. 'Okay cheers,' said Harry handing Lupin his luggage. Harry jumped into one of the back seats. Harry couldn't believe it. From outside, the car looked...well..normal, but when he looked inside there was enough room for about one hundred people to sit comfortably. 'What do you think Harry?' asked Ron. 'Well it's not half bad,' he replied grinning. When everyone was in the car the engone started. 'Goodbye, Be careful,' Harry heard Mrs Weasley shouting from the house. Suddenly they were off, flying down the streets. It reminded Harry of his two trips on the knight bus. They were moving all over the place. Surely Lupin hadn't become a reckless driver over the last year. Harry looked up to see who was driving. It was Alistor Moody, Harry's defence aagainst the dark arts teacher in his 4th year and also a highly commendable member of the Order of the Phoenix. 'You alright Madeye,' said Harry in high spirits. Professor Lupin spun around immediatly from the front passenger seat. 'Please don't distract him Harry, he's bad enough as it is.' he said looking awfully white in the face. 'Um, Okay. Wait, before you turn around and close your eyes for the rest of the journey, I've got a question. Are we going straight to Hogwarts now or are we going some place else?' Harry asked. 'Well, not straight to Hogwarts now. We're going to Number 12 Grimmauld Place where you will then travel by floo powder to your Hogwarts common room.' Lupin replied. 'Oh great. I love travelling that way!' exclaimed Harry sarcastically. Lupin read the sarcasm in Harry's voice and turnt back around laughing. Lupins laughter soon turnt to screaming as a lamp post had to dive out the way of the speeding car before it was savagley run down. 'Calm down man. Your making me nervous.' said Madeye Moody irritabley. It took them just over an hour to reach their destination. God knows how long it would have taken if Lupin was driving Harry thought to himself. The time flew by as Harry and Ron kept pulling pranks on the two sleeping girls sitting in front of them. Ron kept using the Wingardium Leviosa charm on Ginny's hand and resting it upon Hermion'e leg. The laughter was deafening when Hermione awoke, horrorstruck, to see Ginny's hand resting comfortably on her thigh. 'Very funny guys,; said Hermione, not at all impressed at their childish behaviour. 'SILENCE,' shouted Mad-eye causing everyone to jump and waking Ginny who stupidly mummured 'Drum sticks!' 'We're almost there and we don't want to cause attraction to ourselves from the neighbours. After all its not every day they see 6 wizarding folk pull up in a car outside their houses!' Moody added.
Everyone settled down immediatley. Within a minute the car slowly and quietly pulled up outside number twelve. Lupin was the first one out. 'You're never driving again Alistor,' whispered Lupin with a sense of fright and anger in his voice. ' Do you hear me?' 'Oh shut up you wimp. If you were driving we'd still be on our way to pick them up let alone be here now!' replied Moody. 'Come on guys. Quietly. Grab your stuff and follow us' he added closing the car doors. Everyone did as they were told. They all grabbed their bags out of the car and walked silently behind Lupin and Moody up to the front door. Lupin touched the door with his wand. 'ACCESS APPROVED' said a funny computer voice from above the door. The door slowly creaked open and they all stepped inside. It was very dark and gloomy. Harry saw a light coming from the kitchen at the end of the hallway. 'Who else is here?' asked Ron as they made there way down the hall. 'Just Dumbledore and Tonks tonight im afraid. Everyone is out looking for clues on 'You know who's' whereabouts. I wanted to go with them but apparently your safety is more important!' replied Moody. 'People these days, ay Alistor. Need to sort out their priorities!' joked Lupin. 'You're telling me.' said Moody, thinking Lupin was being serious. Hermione pushed open the door to the kitchen. Dumbledore was sitting at the table reading a muggle newspaper, trying to do the daily crossword. 'Ah, I see you have all safely arrived. Early as well,' said Dumbledore smiling. 'No thanks to Moody,' replied Lupin shaking his head. 'Oh do shut up Remus, you're boring me now,' said Moody yawning. 'And are you all ready to leave?' asked Dumbledore choosing to change the subject before curses started flying around the kitchen. 'Yep, we've got all our stuff, everyones here. We're ready!' explained Ginny. 'In that case follow me!' said Dumbledore. Dumbledore led them into the living room and turnt on the light. 'When you get to Hogwarts, stay in your House common rooms until the morning. The school is still being prepared for tomorrow and no-one is allowed to know your at Hogwarts except for everyone in the Order. So. Who's going first?' 'I'll go first this time,' said Harry stepping forward. He grabbed a handful of Floo powder and stepped into the fireplace. 'Erm. What do I say?' asked Harry feeling a little bit stupid. 'Gryffindor Common Room,' said Dumbledore. Everyone was now looking at Harry, waiting for him to leave. Harry took in three deep breaths. 'GRYFFINDOR COMMON ROOM,' shouted Harry. Huge Orange flames appeared around Harry, and he was gone.
Harry felt himself flying around for about thirty seconds before he stopped. The journey was alot more comfortable then his others by floo powder. Harry ran out from the fire place and turnt on all of the oil lamps, lighting up the room. The common room was absolutley spotless. Not one peice of furniture out of place. Not even the usual small scent of dungbombs could be smelt. Harry jumped into the relaxing armchair, facing the fire, and waited for someone else to turn up. Then, Ron suddenly appeared, face down on the floor, his luggage flung everywhere. Harry jumped up out of the seat and leant down to help Ron. 'Need a hand mate,' asked Harry laughing. 'Please mate, if you could.' he replied. Harry helped Ron pick up all his bags and they trudged up the stairs to their dormitary. 'Who's coming next?' asked Harry 'I think Ginny said she was,' explained Ron. They pushed open the door and entered. The bright moonlight was shining through the window, lighting up the whole room. 'Come on, lets just drop our bags and quickly get back down to help the others.' said Harry. They had just started to descend the stairs when they heard the girls voices. They ran down the remaining stairs and could only hear their footsteps going up to the girls dormitary. 'Well, night then,' said Ron shaking his head. 'Do you think they'll come back down Harry.' 'Dont think so mate,' he replied holding a letter. It was written in Hermione's neat handwriting.
Good night guys. We'll see you in the Morning. Me and Ginny have some talking to do. Get a good nights sleep. Dumbledore is going to come up and visit us tomorrow to run us through the days events. Sweet dreams. Hermione x x
'Well, we might as well go hit the sack now as well,' said Ron 'Yeah, suppose. I still can't believe we're here though,' said Harry 'I know what you mean mate, it doesnt seem real. It's brilliant!' he replied. And with that they trudged back up the stairs to bed.
Harry awoke at nine o'clock by a loud tapping on the window. The sun was glaring through the window. Birds could be heard chirping happily as the flew along. Harry went to the window and opened it. A tawny brown school owl flutered through he window with a small peice of parchment tied to it's leg, and landed softly on Harry's bed. Harry quickly untied the letter. Who was writing to him at this time in the morning? Who new he was hear, at Hogwarts? The owl didn't take flight back out of the open window, obviouly expecting a reply. Harry read the letter.
'Ello Harry, I've heard the good news. Back at Hogwarts a day early 'ay. If your not doing anything at lunch time today, come visit me outside my hut. We've got alot to catch up on. Ask Ron and the others if they want to come as well. The more the merrier I say. Hopefully I'll see you later. Send what time you'll be coming by owl. Hagrid.
Harry opened up his bags looking for a small piece of paper to reply. Ths school owl started Hooting impatiently. 'Give me one minute,' Harry told it. Harry finally found some at the bottom of his third bag. He quickly scribbled down a reply.
'Yeah, it feels great to be back! Me and Ron will come down to your hut at about one o'clock. Im not sure about Hermione and Ginny. I'll ask them later. See you at lunch. Harry.
Harry tied the letter neatly around the owls leg and it soared out of the window into the morning sun. 'Who was that,' asked Ron who had just woken up. 'Oh, it was a message from Hagrid asking us if we wanted to visit him at lunch. I said we would at one o'clock. If thats okay with you of course?' said Harry. 'Yeah sure. What about Hermione and Ginny. Are they Coming?' said Ron, wiping the sleepy dust out of his eyes. 'Not sure yet. I'll ask them later.' said Harry putting all his belongings into his bedside drawers. 'Well im starving now. Want to go get some breakfast?' Harry asked Ron. 'Will the Great Hall be open though?' questioned Ron. 'Good point,' said Harry scratching his head. 'Well if it isn't we can always go down to the kitchens. The house elves are bound to have plenty of food they can give us.' 'Yeah,... s'pose.' said Ron yawning. Ron quickly jumped out of bed and got changed whilst Harry went into the bathroom to have a wash. When Harry had vacated the bathroom Ron went in after him to clean himself up. Harry finished tidying up all his stuff whilst he waited for Ron to comeback. 'Ready?' asked Ron drying his face, walking out of the bathroom. 'Yep, lets go!' replied Harry. They jogged down the steps to the common room. 'Do you think Hermione and Ginny want to come?' Ron asked Harry. 'Dunno. Go ask them.' Harry replied. 'But we're not allowed up to the girls domitary.' explained Ron. 'Well, shout them. I'm sure they'll hear you'said Harry. Ron walked over to the stairs leading up to the girls bedrooms and shouted. 'DO YOU TWO WANNA COME GET SOME BREAKFAST WITH ME AND HARRY 'CAUSE WE'RE LEAVING NOW TO GET SOMETHING.' Ron waited eagerly for twenty seconds for a reply but nothing came. 'Well I guess that they are either still asleep or have already left,' Ron told Harry. 'Well there's no point in standing around to find out. My stomachs calling out for a good meal!' laughed Harry. They pushed open the portrait door and headed down to the great hall. 'What time do you think they'll all get here tonight, you know, the other students?' Ron asked 'Dunno, about six o'clock maybe. That is if the train hasn't been hijacked by death eaters.' replied Harry. Ron let out a small feeble laugh not knowing if Harry was joking or not. On their journey they had a few encounters with some of the school ghosts. Nearly headless Nick was rather happy to see them. However Peeves was not. As soon as he saw them he shouted 'INTRUDERS,DEMONS,ATTAAAACCCKKKKK' and started throwing all sorts of stuff he could get his ghostly hands on. Harry and Ron finally lost him as they ran down any corridor that they could. Five minutes longer than it should have taken them they finally entered the great hall that was still decorated in Gryffindor colours after they won the house cup again last year. They went and sat down at the gryffindor table where there was a small selection of breakfasts and a note from Dumbledore.
'Good Morning. I hope you all had a good nights sleep. I have set up breakfast for you as you will no doubt be very hungry. If you require more food just tap the table twice and declare your order. I will come along shortly to update you about today. Enjoy your food.
'Great!' exclaimed Ron. 'In that case I might have a full roast dinner for breakfast' he added licking his lips. Harry just laughed and helped himself to a few slices of toast.
'Is that all your having?' asked Ron, who was now tucking into a suculent roast chicken breakfast. 'Yeah. Im hungry, but im not that hungry. I might have a bacon sandwich in a minute though.' replied Harry. 'Good thinking Harry. I'll join ya!' said Ron now taking a huge swig of pumpkin juice. Harry just laughed. His laughter was cut short by footsteps approaching them from the entrance of the hall. 'There you two are! We've been wondering where you had gotten to,' called Hermione. 'We did shout and ask if you wanted to come with us.' explained Ron. 'Well sorry Ron but maybe being asleep stopped us hearing you. You could have left a note for us.' said Ginny. 'Talking of notes..' Interupted Harry '..Dumbledore left this' he said, handing Hermione and Ginny Dumbledores letter. 'What time is he coming?' asked Hermione after she finished reading. 'Not sure,' said Ron shrugging his shoulders. 'Any time soon probably.' The words had hardly left Ron's lips when Professor Dumbledore strolled into the Great Hall. 'Ah, I see you are enjoying the delights of breakfast,' said Dumbledore pointing to the gravy stain on Ron's shirt. 'Anyway, Today you may do whatever you please. However I must ask you not to leave the school grounds. I know that seventh years are allowed to visit Hogsmeade at weekends but I think it's best we wait until next week. You may use the quidditch pitch for practice today and you can even go swimming in the school lake if it takes your fancy. I already hear you are going to visit Hagrid today so it seems that you have your whole day already set out for you. I do ask though that you are back in your hosue dormitaries by five o'clock so you can get ready for the start of term feast at six. And don't forget to have fun.' With that Dumbledore got up and left. Harry saw a little twinkle in Dumbledores eyes as he said his final words. 'We'll what should we do first?' Hermione asked, buttering a piece of toast. 'Quidditch,' replied Ron and Harry in unison, both with excited looks on their face. 'Anyway me, Ron and Ginny have got to make sure that we practice alot if we want to win the cup again this year,' added Harry. 'When are the quidditch trials Harry. We need one more player dont we?' asked Ginny 'I'm not sure when they are yet. Who have we got so far.. Let me see. Well there's Me, Ron, Ginny, Colin, Lavender and....Lawson. 'Who?' said Hermione with a puzzled look on her face. 'Stephanie Lawson. You know, that pretty looking 5th year who's always got boys swooning over her,' Harry explained. 'Yeah that too, but she's also one hell of a chaser,' added Ron. 'Oh yeah, I know the girl,' said Hermione. 'Well we better go get our brooms then if we're to be practicing.' 'I didn't know you had your own broomstick Hermione. What is it?' asked Ron. 'Oh you'll see!' said Hermione smiling.
They were all making their way up to the house domitary when Harry remembered something important. 'Erm, What's the password for the common room. I forgot to ask Dumbledore?' 'Don't worry Harry. Dumbledore told me last night. It's Midnight Phoenix,' explained Hermione, sensing the worry in Harry's voice. 'Oh, good,' said Harry, relief flying over him. It took them two more minutes to reach the portrait hole and luckily they didn't bump into Peeves again. 'Midnight Phoenix,' said Ginny, and the Portrait of the Fat Lady swung open. 'Well it's going to take me about twenty minutes to get ready,' said Hermione 'so if you want to go straight down to the pitch me and Ginny will meet you there shortley.' 'Yeah Okay,' said Ron. Harry and Ron sprinted up to their dormitary, put on their quidditch robes and headed down to the quidditch pitch with their brooms under their arms. 'I can't wait for quidditch this year. I think this year will be our best one yet.' Ron exclaimed 'Even better than last year?' asked Harry 'Well I know we won three out of three games quite easily last year, but this is our final year. It's going to mean a hell of alot more than the other years. Don't you think Harry?' 'Yeah, s'pose so,' said Harry. He had been thinking the same thing all summer. This was the big one. They had to win it this year. When they reached the pitch, the box of quidditch balls was laying shut underneath the goal posts. 'I'll warm you up if you want Ron,' Harry called to Ron as he ran over to take out the quaffle. They both kicked off the ground and did a few laps of the pitch. It felt so good to be back in the air Harry thought to himself. This was the only place Harry could let all his emotions run free. 'Come on then Harry. Beat me if you can!' said Ron, positioning himself in front of the hoops. Ron had improved immensly since his first quidditch season. Harry only managed to score twice out of the hundred shots he took at him. 'If you stay in that form Ron then that cup is half way to the Gryffindor trophy cabinet,' joked Harry. Ron touched down on the ground and jumped off his broom. 'I'm gonna let the snitch out now Harry. I'll time how fast it takes you to get it.' Suddenly the smallest gold ball flew past Harry's ear. Harry flew after it as fast as his broom could carry him. Within less than a minute Harry had the snitch grasped tightly in his hand. 'Forty three seconds. Not bad. Not bad at all!' said Ron. 'Cheers,' said Harry letting go of the snitch. 'Hold up, here comes Hermione and Ginny' he added. Ron looked round. Harry was right. They were both trudging towards the pitch dressed in the Gryffindor quidditch kits both holding their brooms in their right hand. 'I don't bloody believe it,' yelled Ron. 'What?' called Harry flying down to the ground. 'Hermione's got the brand new Firebolt Xtreme 3000!'
'Your joking,' said Harry looking gobsmacked. 'Nope. Look for yourself,' said Ron. Ron was right. Hermione was holding the new state-of-the-art Firebolt Xtreme. 'You alright guys?' said Hermione cheerfully as she and Ginny approached them. 'You...You...You've got a..a... ' stammered Ron 'Got a what?' questioned Hermione knowing perfectly well what Ron was trying to say. 'A Firebolt Xtreme 3000' said Harry finishing Ron's sentence. Jealousy was oozing through Harry's body. 'Oh right. Yeah. It's no big deal though. It's still just a broom,' said Hermione smiling. 'Just a broom? JUST A BROOM? That happens to be the best, most awaited, broom of the new millenium.' said Ron, getting quite angry at Hermione for not knowing the value of her own broomstick 'Well it's still just a broomstick.It doesn't do magic Ron,' said Hermione. ' Well come on. We're not here to discuss brooms. We're here to practice,' said Ginny impatiently. They all mounted there brooms and took off. Harry and Ron were watching Hermione in awe of her new broom for about five minutes talking eargerly about how well it flew and how fast it went. 'Are you two going to practice today or are you just gonna hover there with your mouths wide open,' asked Ginny as she flew past them for the tenth time. 'She's right,' said Harry as he flew off at full speed around the pitch. They practiced for well over an hour doing different drills, flying manouvers and a small match of boys against girls at the end. They only used the quaffle and it was first to one hundred points wins. Harry and Ron scraped the win by one hundred to eighty. 'You should seriously try out for the House team this year Hermione. You're amazing.' said Ron 'I agree, you're the perfect candidate for the chaser we're looking for.' added Harry. 'Come on guys. It's not me thats amazing, its the broom. You said it yourselves,' said Hermione trying not to be big headed. 'Who cares if it's the broom or not, you were amazing out there. At least come to the trials.' said Ron. 'Maybe. I don't know. I've got so many other things to do this year as well. I don't know if I'll have time.' Hermione explained. 'You'll find time. Come on what do you say? Please?' asked Harry putting on the biggest smile he could. 'Ok then. I'll try out for the team. You really know how to twist my arm.' laughed Hermione. 'That's the spirit,' said Ron grinning.
They all went back to the dorms and had a shower to clean off all the sweat and stickyness on them before they were to go down and see Hagrid after lunch. 'If Hermione does get in the team we'll be unbeatable. Think about it. Three great chasers in Ginny, Hermione and Lawson, two of the best beaters since Fred and George, Lavender and Colin, and then there's me and you. I swear that trophey's ours again this year,' exclaimed Ron excitedly. He didn't want to say it out loud but Harry agreed with Ron. There was no way anyone was going to beat Gryffindor this year. Not even Slytherin who had been the runners up the last two years.
Harry was just drying himself when there was another loud tapping on the window. It was the same owl that visited that morning. Harry flung open the window and took the letter. This time the owl took flight back out of the window straight away. Harry unrolled the parchment.
Change of plan Harry. I've important work for the Order. Unavoidable I'm afraid. I'll tell you about it at the feast tonight. Im sure you've probably got better stuff to do anyway. See ya later. Hagrid.
Harry felt down hearted after he'd finished reading Hagrid's letter. He'd been looking forward to seeing Hagrid all day. And to be truthfull he didn't have anything to do, let alone better to do. Harry broke the bad news to the rest of them. 'Well it must have been really important if he had to leave on short notice,' said Hermione. 'I know but....,' Harry started, but then stopped. 'Theres still the sorting to look forward to tonight. And the announcement of the new head boy and head girl,' said Ginny. 'I wonder who it will be?' Harry glanced across at Hermione and saw her slowly cross her fingers. 'Yeah, I suppose you're right,' said Harry, looking back at Ginny. 'Hay, arn't you a prefect now Ginny?' added Harry. 'Yep. Took me totally by surprise. But then again if Ron could make it, so could I. Mum was so proud when she found out. She took us all out for a meal to celebrate.'
Harry spent the rest of the afternoon revising his new school books and giving Ron countless amount of games of wizards chess. After the 8th game they all decided to get changed into their robes, ready for the sorting Feast. 'I can't wait for the sorting. It's so exciting. To think this time six years ago we were just starting our first year here. God, think of all the stuff we've been through.' said Hermione. 'I'd rather not if thats Okay Hermione,' replied Harry not trying to sound horrible. 'Oh yeah. Sorry Harry.' After that the silence was deafening. Nobody could think of anything good to say. The silence was broken by the portrait door swinging open. and footsteps coming towards them. 'It's time.' said Dumbledore. 'If you would like to go take your seats down at your house tables it would be much helpful. The train will be arriving in less than five minutes. I am happy to say that no attacks have yet been reported so it would have been okay for you to catch the Hogwarts Express this morning. Still, better safe than sorry I say. Now come along. You don't want to be late.' beckoned Dumbledore as he made his way back down to the portrait hole. Everyone immediatly jumped up and followed Dumbledore down to the Great Hall, ready for the new school year to begin.
The last night at the Burrow was the best one so far in Harry's opinion. Mrs Weasley had prepared the most gorgeous looking meal for everyone to enjoy. The room was decorated with balloons and banners reading 'FINAL YEAR' and 'GOOD LUCK'. Everyone had just finished eating there 5th course when Metzie and Dobby came and cleared it all up without even being called. It was getting very late when Fred and George came up with the best goodnight surprise for there parents. 'Anyone for a mint before they go to bed,' asked Fred, winking at Harry. 'No thanks' everyone replied except for Mr and Mrs Weasley who gratefully, yet stupidly, accepted a piece. No sooner had they started chewing that there heads started to expand to much bigger their normal size, until their heads were drooping over their necks. This brought everyone to hysterics. Even Mrs Wealsey saw the funny side to the prank. Five minutes later they were all being ushered up the stairs to bed. Ron and Harry went straight into there room and Ginny and Hermione into theirs. Harry sat down on his bed and faced Ron. 'It's almost time,' he said to Ron 'I know man, Only about another...let me see...... Twelve hours before we leave for our final year.' replied Ron. 'No not that, Hermione is knocking in a minute. Thats when I'm going to go talk to Ginny.' 'Oh yeah!!!' exclaimed Ron 'You nervous?' 'About what. I don't know what she wants to ask me. Why, do you know?' asked Harry 'Well yeah, Hermione told me outside Quality Quiddich supplies whilst you was buying your broom polish. Hermione made me swear not to tell you.' 'Any advice?' Harry asked feeling that as Ron did ask, it was probably something to be nervous about. 'Just be yourself I suppose.' 'Errr...Okay..Cheers.' Harry was not sure what to do with that advice but then again he didn't have much time to think about it. Suddenly there was three small knocks on the door. 'Show time,' Harry whispered to Ron as he slowly made his way over to the door.
Harry opened the door and was completely taken back by surprise. 'Dumbledore. Wh...Wha...What..are you doing here?'asked Harry in total shock. 'I am here Harry, doing work for the Order. We believe that Voldemorts Death Eaters will be planning an attack on Platform nine and three quarters tomorrow and there is no way of stopping it. We can't stop every witch and wizard from catching the Hogwarts Express tomorrow but we can stop Voldemorts main propriety and his friends.' smiled Dumbledore. 'What do you mean?' asked Ron, jumping up from his bed with a puzzled look on his face. 'I mean that you will be escorted tonight, by the order, to Hogwarts where you will be completely safe until tomorrows new school term.' replied Dumbledore. 'Do you mean that we're not getting the school train tomorrow?'asked Harry 'Yes' 'And we're leaving now... Me and Ron...for Hogwarts?' 'And of course Miss Weasley and Miss Granger,' added Dumbledore. 'Molly is breaking the news to them as we speak. Now come along, hurry, quickly pack your things. Remus will be getting rather impatient if we don't hurry up,' explained Dumbledore closing the door quickly behind him. Harry and Ron quickly packed all of their belongings, and made their way down the stairs. 'Wait a minute, Forgot my broomstick, said Harry rushing back up the stairs. 'You couldn't grab mine as well could you please Harry?' asked Ron laughing. 'Sure' he replied. Harry quickly grabbed both broomsticks and proceeded down the stairs. 'Now you be careful this year,' Mrs Wealsey was telling Ron and Ginny as Harry reached the bottom. 'You too Harry dear. Do be careful. I know you don't look for trouble but..... well...be careful.' Mrs Weasley added pulling Harry into Hug. 'Come along children' Called Dumbledore from the front door. 'Well, thanks for everything Mrs Weasley said Harry and Hermione in turn. 'Its been a great few weeks.' 'It was my pleasure. Good luck in your exams. Be good.' yelled Mrs Weasley as all four of them proceeded out of the door. Professor Lupin was standing next to the car, ready to pack all of their luggage in to the back. Harry couldn't believe it. He was going back to Hogwarts. His home. Where he belonged. Okay, it was a day early, but he was still going. Harry couldn't help but smile.
'Harry, so great to see you again!,' yelled Professor Lupin as he spotted Harry trudging down the path to the car. 'Here, give us your bags and go find the nicest seat,' he added throwing out his arms. 'Okay cheers,' said Harry handing Lupin his luggage. Harry jumped into one of the back seats. Harry couldn't believe it. From outside, the car looked...well..normal, but when he looked inside there was enough room for about one hundred people to sit comfortably. 'What do you think Harry?' asked Ron. 'Well it's not half bad,' he replied grinning. When everyone was in the car the engone started. 'Goodbye, Be careful,' Harry heard Mrs Weasley shouting from the house. Suddenly they were off, flying down the streets. It reminded Harry of his two trips on the knight bus. They were moving all over the place. Surely Lupin hadn't become a reckless driver over the last year. Harry looked up to see who was driving. It was Alistor Moody, Harry's defence aagainst the dark arts teacher in his 4th year and also a highly commendable member of the Order of the Phoenix. 'You alright Madeye,' said Harry in high spirits. Professor Lupin spun around immediatly from the front passenger seat. 'Please don't distract him Harry, he's bad enough as it is.' he said looking awfully white in the face. 'Um, Okay. Wait, before you turn around and close your eyes for the rest of the journey, I've got a question. Are we going straight to Hogwarts now or are we going some place else?' Harry asked. 'Well, not straight to Hogwarts now. We're going to Number 12 Grimmauld Place where you will then travel by floo powder to your Hogwarts common room.' Lupin replied. 'Oh great. I love travelling that way!' exclaimed Harry sarcastically. Lupin read the sarcasm in Harry's voice and turnt back around laughing. Lupins laughter soon turnt to screaming as a lamp post had to dive out the way of the speeding car before it was savagley run down. 'Calm down man. Your making me nervous.' said Madeye Moody irritabley. It took them just over an hour to reach their destination. God knows how long it would have taken if Lupin was driving Harry thought to himself. The time flew by as Harry and Ron kept pulling pranks on the two sleeping girls sitting in front of them. Ron kept using the Wingardium Leviosa charm on Ginny's hand and resting it upon Hermion'e leg. The laughter was deafening when Hermione awoke, horrorstruck, to see Ginny's hand resting comfortably on her thigh. 'Very funny guys,; said Hermione, not at all impressed at their childish behaviour. 'SILENCE,' shouted Mad-eye causing everyone to jump and waking Ginny who stupidly mummured 'Drum sticks!' 'We're almost there and we don't want to cause attraction to ourselves from the neighbours. After all its not every day they see 6 wizarding folk pull up in a car outside their houses!' Moody added.
Everyone settled down immediatley. Within a minute the car slowly and quietly pulled up outside number twelve. Lupin was the first one out. 'You're never driving again Alistor,' whispered Lupin with a sense of fright and anger in his voice. ' Do you hear me?' 'Oh shut up you wimp. If you were driving we'd still be on our way to pick them up let alone be here now!' replied Moody. 'Come on guys. Quietly. Grab your stuff and follow us' he added closing the car doors. Everyone did as they were told. They all grabbed their bags out of the car and walked silently behind Lupin and Moody up to the front door. Lupin touched the door with his wand. 'ACCESS APPROVED' said a funny computer voice from above the door. The door slowly creaked open and they all stepped inside. It was very dark and gloomy. Harry saw a light coming from the kitchen at the end of the hallway. 'Who else is here?' asked Ron as they made there way down the hall. 'Just Dumbledore and Tonks tonight im afraid. Everyone is out looking for clues on 'You know who's' whereabouts. I wanted to go with them but apparently your safety is more important!' replied Moody. 'People these days, ay Alistor. Need to sort out their priorities!' joked Lupin. 'You're telling me.' said Moody, thinking Lupin was being serious. Hermione pushed open the door to the kitchen. Dumbledore was sitting at the table reading a muggle newspaper, trying to do the daily crossword. 'Ah, I see you have all safely arrived. Early as well,' said Dumbledore smiling. 'No thanks to Moody,' replied Lupin shaking his head. 'Oh do shut up Remus, you're boring me now,' said Moody yawning. 'And are you all ready to leave?' asked Dumbledore choosing to change the subject before curses started flying around the kitchen. 'Yep, we've got all our stuff, everyones here. We're ready!' explained Ginny. 'In that case follow me!' said Dumbledore. Dumbledore led them into the living room and turnt on the light. 'When you get to Hogwarts, stay in your House common rooms until the morning. The school is still being prepared for tomorrow and no-one is allowed to know your at Hogwarts except for everyone in the Order. So. Who's going first?' 'I'll go first this time,' said Harry stepping forward. He grabbed a handful of Floo powder and stepped into the fireplace. 'Erm. What do I say?' asked Harry feeling a little bit stupid. 'Gryffindor Common Room,' said Dumbledore. Everyone was now looking at Harry, waiting for him to leave. Harry took in three deep breaths. 'GRYFFINDOR COMMON ROOM,' shouted Harry. Huge Orange flames appeared around Harry, and he was gone.
Harry felt himself flying around for about thirty seconds before he stopped. The journey was alot more comfortable then his others by floo powder. Harry ran out from the fire place and turnt on all of the oil lamps, lighting up the room. The common room was absolutley spotless. Not one peice of furniture out of place. Not even the usual small scent of dungbombs could be smelt. Harry jumped into the relaxing armchair, facing the fire, and waited for someone else to turn up. Then, Ron suddenly appeared, face down on the floor, his luggage flung everywhere. Harry jumped up out of the seat and leant down to help Ron. 'Need a hand mate,' asked Harry laughing. 'Please mate, if you could.' he replied. Harry helped Ron pick up all his bags and they trudged up the stairs to their dormitary. 'Who's coming next?' asked Harry 'I think Ginny said she was,' explained Ron. They pushed open the door and entered. The bright moonlight was shining through the window, lighting up the whole room. 'Come on, lets just drop our bags and quickly get back down to help the others.' said Harry. They had just started to descend the stairs when they heard the girls voices. They ran down the remaining stairs and could only hear their footsteps going up to the girls dormitary. 'Well, night then,' said Ron shaking his head. 'Do you think they'll come back down Harry.' 'Dont think so mate,' he replied holding a letter. It was written in Hermione's neat handwriting.
Good night guys. We'll see you in the Morning. Me and Ginny have some talking to do. Get a good nights sleep. Dumbledore is going to come up and visit us tomorrow to run us through the days events. Sweet dreams. Hermione x x
'Well, we might as well go hit the sack now as well,' said Ron 'Yeah, suppose. I still can't believe we're here though,' said Harry 'I know what you mean mate, it doesnt seem real. It's brilliant!' he replied. And with that they trudged back up the stairs to bed.
Harry awoke at nine o'clock by a loud tapping on the window. The sun was glaring through the window. Birds could be heard chirping happily as the flew along. Harry went to the window and opened it. A tawny brown school owl flutered through he window with a small peice of parchment tied to it's leg, and landed softly on Harry's bed. Harry quickly untied the letter. Who was writing to him at this time in the morning? Who new he was hear, at Hogwarts? The owl didn't take flight back out of the open window, obviouly expecting a reply. Harry read the letter.
'Ello Harry, I've heard the good news. Back at Hogwarts a day early 'ay. If your not doing anything at lunch time today, come visit me outside my hut. We've got alot to catch up on. Ask Ron and the others if they want to come as well. The more the merrier I say. Hopefully I'll see you later. Send what time you'll be coming by owl. Hagrid.
Harry opened up his bags looking for a small piece of paper to reply. Ths school owl started Hooting impatiently. 'Give me one minute,' Harry told it. Harry finally found some at the bottom of his third bag. He quickly scribbled down a reply.
'Yeah, it feels great to be back! Me and Ron will come down to your hut at about one o'clock. Im not sure about Hermione and Ginny. I'll ask them later. See you at lunch. Harry.
Harry tied the letter neatly around the owls leg and it soared out of the window into the morning sun. 'Who was that,' asked Ron who had just woken up. 'Oh, it was a message from Hagrid asking us if we wanted to visit him at lunch. I said we would at one o'clock. If thats okay with you of course?' said Harry. 'Yeah sure. What about Hermione and Ginny. Are they Coming?' said Ron, wiping the sleepy dust out of his eyes. 'Not sure yet. I'll ask them later.' said Harry putting all his belongings into his bedside drawers. 'Well im starving now. Want to go get some breakfast?' Harry asked Ron. 'Will the Great Hall be open though?' questioned Ron. 'Good point,' said Harry scratching his head. 'Well if it isn't we can always go down to the kitchens. The house elves are bound to have plenty of food they can give us.' 'Yeah,... s'pose.' said Ron yawning. Ron quickly jumped out of bed and got changed whilst Harry went into the bathroom to have a wash. When Harry had vacated the bathroom Ron went in after him to clean himself up. Harry finished tidying up all his stuff whilst he waited for Ron to comeback. 'Ready?' asked Ron drying his face, walking out of the bathroom. 'Yep, lets go!' replied Harry. They jogged down the steps to the common room. 'Do you think Hermione and Ginny want to come?' Ron asked Harry. 'Dunno. Go ask them.' Harry replied. 'But we're not allowed up to the girls domitary.' explained Ron. 'Well, shout them. I'm sure they'll hear you'said Harry. Ron walked over to the stairs leading up to the girls bedrooms and shouted. 'DO YOU TWO WANNA COME GET SOME BREAKFAST WITH ME AND HARRY 'CAUSE WE'RE LEAVING NOW TO GET SOMETHING.' Ron waited eagerly for twenty seconds for a reply but nothing came. 'Well I guess that they are either still asleep or have already left,' Ron told Harry. 'Well there's no point in standing around to find out. My stomachs calling out for a good meal!' laughed Harry. They pushed open the portrait door and headed down to the great hall. 'What time do you think they'll all get here tonight, you know, the other students?' Ron asked 'Dunno, about six o'clock maybe. That is if the train hasn't been hijacked by death eaters.' replied Harry. Ron let out a small feeble laugh not knowing if Harry was joking or not. On their journey they had a few encounters with some of the school ghosts. Nearly headless Nick was rather happy to see them. However Peeves was not. As soon as he saw them he shouted 'INTRUDERS,DEMONS,ATTAAAACCCKKKKK' and started throwing all sorts of stuff he could get his ghostly hands on. Harry and Ron finally lost him as they ran down any corridor that they could. Five minutes longer than it should have taken them they finally entered the great hall that was still decorated in Gryffindor colours after they won the house cup again last year. They went and sat down at the gryffindor table where there was a small selection of breakfasts and a note from Dumbledore.
'Good Morning. I hope you all had a good nights sleep. I have set up breakfast for you as you will no doubt be very hungry. If you require more food just tap the table twice and declare your order. I will come along shortly to update you about today. Enjoy your food.
'Great!' exclaimed Ron. 'In that case I might have a full roast dinner for breakfast' he added licking his lips. Harry just laughed and helped himself to a few slices of toast.
'Is that all your having?' asked Ron, who was now tucking into a suculent roast chicken breakfast. 'Yeah. Im hungry, but im not that hungry. I might have a bacon sandwich in a minute though.' replied Harry. 'Good thinking Harry. I'll join ya!' said Ron now taking a huge swig of pumpkin juice. Harry just laughed. His laughter was cut short by footsteps approaching them from the entrance of the hall. 'There you two are! We've been wondering where you had gotten to,' called Hermione. 'We did shout and ask if you wanted to come with us.' explained Ron. 'Well sorry Ron but maybe being asleep stopped us hearing you. You could have left a note for us.' said Ginny. 'Talking of notes..' Interupted Harry '..Dumbledore left this' he said, handing Hermione and Ginny Dumbledores letter. 'What time is he coming?' asked Hermione after she finished reading. 'Not sure,' said Ron shrugging his shoulders. 'Any time soon probably.' The words had hardly left Ron's lips when Professor Dumbledore strolled into the Great Hall. 'Ah, I see you are enjoying the delights of breakfast,' said Dumbledore pointing to the gravy stain on Ron's shirt. 'Anyway, Today you may do whatever you please. However I must ask you not to leave the school grounds. I know that seventh years are allowed to visit Hogsmeade at weekends but I think it's best we wait until next week. You may use the quidditch pitch for practice today and you can even go swimming in the school lake if it takes your fancy. I already hear you are going to visit Hagrid today so it seems that you have your whole day already set out for you. I do ask though that you are back in your hosue dormitaries by five o'clock so you can get ready for the start of term feast at six. And don't forget to have fun.' With that Dumbledore got up and left. Harry saw a little twinkle in Dumbledores eyes as he said his final words. 'We'll what should we do first?' Hermione asked, buttering a piece of toast. 'Quidditch,' replied Ron and Harry in unison, both with excited looks on their face. 'Anyway me, Ron and Ginny have got to make sure that we practice alot if we want to win the cup again this year,' added Harry. 'When are the quidditch trials Harry. We need one more player dont we?' asked Ginny 'I'm not sure when they are yet. Who have we got so far.. Let me see. Well there's Me, Ron, Ginny, Colin, Lavender and....Lawson. 'Who?' said Hermione with a puzzled look on her face. 'Stephanie Lawson. You know, that pretty looking 5th year who's always got boys swooning over her,' Harry explained. 'Yeah that too, but she's also one hell of a chaser,' added Ron. 'Oh yeah, I know the girl,' said Hermione. 'Well we better go get our brooms then if we're to be practicing.' 'I didn't know you had your own broomstick Hermione. What is it?' asked Ron. 'Oh you'll see!' said Hermione smiling.
They were all making their way up to the house domitary when Harry remembered something important. 'Erm, What's the password for the common room. I forgot to ask Dumbledore?' 'Don't worry Harry. Dumbledore told me last night. It's Midnight Phoenix,' explained Hermione, sensing the worry in Harry's voice. 'Oh, good,' said Harry, relief flying over him. It took them two more minutes to reach the portrait hole and luckily they didn't bump into Peeves again. 'Midnight Phoenix,' said Ginny, and the Portrait of the Fat Lady swung open. 'Well it's going to take me about twenty minutes to get ready,' said Hermione 'so if you want to go straight down to the pitch me and Ginny will meet you there shortley.' 'Yeah Okay,' said Ron. Harry and Ron sprinted up to their dormitary, put on their quidditch robes and headed down to the quidditch pitch with their brooms under their arms. 'I can't wait for quidditch this year. I think this year will be our best one yet.' Ron exclaimed 'Even better than last year?' asked Harry 'Well I know we won three out of three games quite easily last year, but this is our final year. It's going to mean a hell of alot more than the other years. Don't you think Harry?' 'Yeah, s'pose so,' said Harry. He had been thinking the same thing all summer. This was the big one. They had to win it this year. When they reached the pitch, the box of quidditch balls was laying shut underneath the goal posts. 'I'll warm you up if you want Ron,' Harry called to Ron as he ran over to take out the quaffle. They both kicked off the ground and did a few laps of the pitch. It felt so good to be back in the air Harry thought to himself. This was the only place Harry could let all his emotions run free. 'Come on then Harry. Beat me if you can!' said Ron, positioning himself in front of the hoops. Ron had improved immensly since his first quidditch season. Harry only managed to score twice out of the hundred shots he took at him. 'If you stay in that form Ron then that cup is half way to the Gryffindor trophy cabinet,' joked Harry. Ron touched down on the ground and jumped off his broom. 'I'm gonna let the snitch out now Harry. I'll time how fast it takes you to get it.' Suddenly the smallest gold ball flew past Harry's ear. Harry flew after it as fast as his broom could carry him. Within less than a minute Harry had the snitch grasped tightly in his hand. 'Forty three seconds. Not bad. Not bad at all!' said Ron. 'Cheers,' said Harry letting go of the snitch. 'Hold up, here comes Hermione and Ginny' he added. Ron looked round. Harry was right. They were both trudging towards the pitch dressed in the Gryffindor quidditch kits both holding their brooms in their right hand. 'I don't bloody believe it,' yelled Ron. 'What?' called Harry flying down to the ground. 'Hermione's got the brand new Firebolt Xtreme 3000!'
'Your joking,' said Harry looking gobsmacked. 'Nope. Look for yourself,' said Ron. Ron was right. Hermione was holding the new state-of-the-art Firebolt Xtreme. 'You alright guys?' said Hermione cheerfully as she and Ginny approached them. 'You...You...You've got a..a... ' stammered Ron 'Got a what?' questioned Hermione knowing perfectly well what Ron was trying to say. 'A Firebolt Xtreme 3000' said Harry finishing Ron's sentence. Jealousy was oozing through Harry's body. 'Oh right. Yeah. It's no big deal though. It's still just a broom,' said Hermione smiling. 'Just a broom? JUST A BROOM? That happens to be the best, most awaited, broom of the new millenium.' said Ron, getting quite angry at Hermione for not knowing the value of her own broomstick 'Well it's still just a broomstick.It doesn't do magic Ron,' said Hermione. ' Well come on. We're not here to discuss brooms. We're here to practice,' said Ginny impatiently. They all mounted there brooms and took off. Harry and Ron were watching Hermione in awe of her new broom for about five minutes talking eargerly about how well it flew and how fast it went. 'Are you two going to practice today or are you just gonna hover there with your mouths wide open,' asked Ginny as she flew past them for the tenth time. 'She's right,' said Harry as he flew off at full speed around the pitch. They practiced for well over an hour doing different drills, flying manouvers and a small match of boys against girls at the end. They only used the quaffle and it was first to one hundred points wins. Harry and Ron scraped the win by one hundred to eighty. 'You should seriously try out for the House team this year Hermione. You're amazing.' said Ron 'I agree, you're the perfect candidate for the chaser we're looking for.' added Harry. 'Come on guys. It's not me thats amazing, its the broom. You said it yourselves,' said Hermione trying not to be big headed. 'Who cares if it's the broom or not, you were amazing out there. At least come to the trials.' said Ron. 'Maybe. I don't know. I've got so many other things to do this year as well. I don't know if I'll have time.' Hermione explained. 'You'll find time. Come on what do you say? Please?' asked Harry putting on the biggest smile he could. 'Ok then. I'll try out for the team. You really know how to twist my arm.' laughed Hermione. 'That's the spirit,' said Ron grinning.
They all went back to the dorms and had a shower to clean off all the sweat and stickyness on them before they were to go down and see Hagrid after lunch. 'If Hermione does get in the team we'll be unbeatable. Think about it. Three great chasers in Ginny, Hermione and Lawson, two of the best beaters since Fred and George, Lavender and Colin, and then there's me and you. I swear that trophey's ours again this year,' exclaimed Ron excitedly. He didn't want to say it out loud but Harry agreed with Ron. There was no way anyone was going to beat Gryffindor this year. Not even Slytherin who had been the runners up the last two years.
Harry was just drying himself when there was another loud tapping on the window. It was the same owl that visited that morning. Harry flung open the window and took the letter. This time the owl took flight back out of the window straight away. Harry unrolled the parchment.
Change of plan Harry. I've important work for the Order. Unavoidable I'm afraid. I'll tell you about it at the feast tonight. Im sure you've probably got better stuff to do anyway. See ya later. Hagrid.
Harry felt down hearted after he'd finished reading Hagrid's letter. He'd been looking forward to seeing Hagrid all day. And to be truthfull he didn't have anything to do, let alone better to do. Harry broke the bad news to the rest of them. 'Well it must have been really important if he had to leave on short notice,' said Hermione. 'I know but....,' Harry started, but then stopped. 'Theres still the sorting to look forward to tonight. And the announcement of the new head boy and head girl,' said Ginny. 'I wonder who it will be?' Harry glanced across at Hermione and saw her slowly cross her fingers. 'Yeah, I suppose you're right,' said Harry, looking back at Ginny. 'Hay, arn't you a prefect now Ginny?' added Harry. 'Yep. Took me totally by surprise. But then again if Ron could make it, so could I. Mum was so proud when she found out. She took us all out for a meal to celebrate.'
Harry spent the rest of the afternoon revising his new school books and giving Ron countless amount of games of wizards chess. After the 8th game they all decided to get changed into their robes, ready for the sorting Feast. 'I can't wait for the sorting. It's so exciting. To think this time six years ago we were just starting our first year here. God, think of all the stuff we've been through.' said Hermione. 'I'd rather not if thats Okay Hermione,' replied Harry not trying to sound horrible. 'Oh yeah. Sorry Harry.' After that the silence was deafening. Nobody could think of anything good to say. The silence was broken by the portrait door swinging open. and footsteps coming towards them. 'It's time.' said Dumbledore. 'If you would like to go take your seats down at your house tables it would be much helpful. The train will be arriving in less than five minutes. I am happy to say that no attacks have yet been reported so it would have been okay for you to catch the Hogwarts Express this morning. Still, better safe than sorry I say. Now come along. You don't want to be late.' beckoned Dumbledore as he made his way back down to the portrait hole. Everyone immediatly jumped up and followed Dumbledore down to the Great Hall, ready for the new school year to begin.
