Chapter Nine: Surprises, Surprises

Hermione was awaken by the ring of her telephone. She carefully removed herself from Harry's grasp and answered the phone. "HELLO! IS HERMIONE THERE?" the voice screamed.

"Ron! Ron, stop yelling!" Hermione replied. "Herm, is that you? Sorry, never got the hang of this muggle thing."

"Ya, I know. Well, why did you call Ron?"

"I called to ask if the rumors are true. Is Harry back?" A smile brushed across Hermione's face and she answered

"Yes, he is."

"Oh my god! Mom, it's true! Harry's back!", Ron yelled. Hermione started laughing and gave the phone to Harry.

"Hey, mate," Harry said, still a little grogy.

"Hey. How've you been?"

"As good as can be expected."

"That's great. Mum's been planning this big welcome home party for months. You up for it?"

"Ya! What time?"

"About 6."

"I'll see you there. Bye."

"Bye."

"Well, what was that about?" Hermione asked.

"Mom is throwing me a welcome home party."

"Wow, that's great! What time it is?"

"6."

"Well, Har, want some breakfast?"

"Ya, I'm starving."

The two made their way to the kitchen and started making breakfast. As they sat down to enjoy their meal, a large, eagle looking owl appeared at the window. Harry opened the window and took the note attached to its leg. It hooted and flew back into the clear blue sky. Harry read the envelope and saw that it was addressed to himself and Hermione.

He sat down and handed the letter to Hermione. "Who do you think it's from, Har?"

"I don't know. Let's open it and see." Hermione tore off the top of the envelope and pulled out the parchment. It read..

Dear Mr. Potter and Miss.Granger,

I would like to commend you both for your help with the war. The war would not have been won if you two were not here, and for that, the whole world is in your debt. Myself and others at the Ministry have decided that both of you should be commended for you work. By this, I mean that you both are to be given the honor of Merlin. The ceremony will be held tomorrow, Sunday the 23th of December, at Merlin Hall. Congratulations! I hope to see you both there at 3:00 sharp.

Cornelius Fudge

Minister of Magic

Hermione fell off her chair. "Mione, are you all rite?" Harry asked picking her up.

"Ya. I'm ok. You have to read this, Har," Hermione said, handing Harry the paper.

His eyes almost popped out of his head. "My God, Hermione!"

"Ya, I know." The two just sat in the chairs, letting this sink in. After some time, they began to eat their now cold breakfast, when there was a nock at the door...