Chapter 4. Graduation Day
Harry checked for the hundredth time to make sure his glasses were on straight. He glanced at the clock and saw that it was 2:30. With a heavy sigh, he moved toward the door. He opened it to find Ginny, Ron and Hermione on the other side deep in conversation.
".well, do you think we should tell him?" asked Ron.
"Absolutely!" said Ginny. "Harry and I have no secrets."
"Hem, hem!"
Ron jumped and Ginny looked around nervously, which made Harry laugh.
"Bloody hell, Harry!" yelled Ron. "You scared me. Thought old Umbridge was back!"
Harry had trouble talking. "Sorry, mate.couldn't..resist.."
While Harry's laughing calmed down, Ginny looked anxiously on. How could she tell him her suspicions? They were totally ridiculous! She didn't even believe what she was thinking. She frowned.
Harry noticed immediately. He came over and put his arm around her. "What's wrong, Gin?"
"Harry.I think I have seen a ghost!" she blurted out, almost in tears. "I swear I thought I saw Sirius coming into the building."
At that moment, Professor Snape walked by. "Well, if it isn't the Fab Four. Potter, aren't you supposed to be heading downstairs?"
"Right, Professor. Come on! We have to get ready! We will talk about that later, Gin!" Harry said with a twinkle in his eye. ~~~~ The Great Hall looked fabulous decorated for Graduation. The area where the teacher's tables usually stood had been cleared. Several chairs were present and two tables were there. In the center was a podium. On the wall behind the stage hung four banners, one for each of the houses; Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.
The house tables were gone followed by many rows of chairs. Important Guests had a small balcony to one side and Hogwarts Staff had a balcony opposite.
Mrs. Weasley arrived with the boys. She walked up to Mr. Weasley who was deep in conversation with Kingsley Shacklebolt. He turned and smiled to her. "Molly, I was just telling Kingsley about that time in our sixth year when you got mad at me and turned my hair green!"
Mrs. Weasley groaned. "Well you are just lucky the spell wasn't permanent! Are you ready to go in?"
Mr. Weasley shook his head. "No, but you go in. Kingsley will walk you to your seats. I have to wait a few moments for Dumbledore." He gave his wife a kiss and motioned for the boys. "Follow your Mother, boys. I will see you in a bit."
Mrs. Weasley followed Kingsley into the Great Hall. He took them across the room to a set of steps. "Go on up Molly. Arthur isn't the only one waiting on Dumbledore." Noticing her shocked expression, he laughed. "It's ok. The Minister himself approved this." Kingsley headed back out to stand with Mr. Weasley.
Mrs. Weasley looked at her sons and shrugged. The all went up to the balcony and took the seats with their names on them. ~~~~ Sirius watched Harry reluctantly leave the room. He fell back into the chair offered by Dumbledore with a heavy sigh.
"So.today is Harry's Graduation Day. I have been in limbo for almost 2 years," sighed Sirius.
"We have just found the spell to bring you out of the veil, Sirius. It was a very difficult spell and it was only possible because you physically went in. We needed to make sure everything was perfect before we could perform it, because we would only get one chance. How do you feel?" asked Dumbledore.
"Rested," joked Sirius. "Actually, it only felt like I had been in there a very short time when I felt a hand on my shoulder. It was a vast nothingness, just the whispers. I think the only reason I didn't go mad is because it was similar to Azkaban."
The door opened and a house elf bearing a tray of food entered. "Let's eat a bit before we go down to Graduation and I will give you the highlights of Harry's last 2 years."
"First of all, I will not tell you all the details. I am sure Harry will enlighten you as much as you want later. In the past 2 years, Harry has steeled himself to become an auror. His grades have improved in every subject. Let me tell you.even Professor Snape has quit insulting him! He was made Head Boy this year and chose not to be Quidditch Captain. He said he didn't have the time. With Remus and Tonks helping him, he has become very strong in Defense Against the Dark Arts and could easily teach the course!
"As you may or may not know, the battle at the Ministry where you fell was the beginning of the War. Harry had a hard time dealing with you being gone. You would have been proud of him! He fought more valiantly than most adult wizards. About six months ago, Harry went to Godric's Hollow with Remus so that he could see the house where James and Lily lived while they were in hiding. While they were there, Voldemort appeared and managed to knock Remus out. Harry fought and Voldemort went down!
"We verified that Voldemort was dead and that Remus would be ok. Harry returned to studying for his N.E.W.T.S. and the Wizard World celebrated. But the war was not over.the death eaters refused to give up. So they are being tracked down one by one.
"One last thing before we go down to the Great Hall. Harry and Ginny Weasley love each other. I think you will be the first to notice that they look so much like Lily and James. Their relationship is strained at the moment, but still very much alive. Are you ready to go?"
Sirius, deep in thought answered "Do you think it's wise? Won't I shock everyone by being alive? What if the Ministry wants to arrest me?
The Headmaster smiled. "Don't worry, Sirius. Wear this cloak and it will conceal your identity until you are ready to show yourself."
Dumbledore handed Sirius a brown cloak. Sirius put it on and looked in the mirror. He was looking at an older man that was very nondescript. Brown hair, brown eyes and clean shaven. He smiled at Dumbledore as they walked out the door. ~~~~ As the seventh years all milled about outside the Great Hall, Harry watched as Dumbledore stood talking to Mr. Weasley, Shacklebolt and a fourth man Harry did not recognize. His attention was drawn back to the staircase where Professor McGonagall was now standing.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, if I could have your attention!" she called. Almost everyone settled down and turned toward her. "Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger would you please come forward? Please listen, all of you. I remember the night you came across the lake. Here we are preparing to send you out into the world.please know that those of us who teach here are proud to have known you.
"In a few moments, we will proceed. Please line up alphabetically by house. Our Head Boy and Girl will be seated on the stage. Everyone please be on your best behavior! The Daily Prophet is here, as well as the Minister of Magic and several other very important guests! If you are ready lets begin! Follow me."
As Harry gestured for Hermione to go before him she smiled. She remembered walking into the Great Hall for the Sorting.so many good memories. She looked back at Harry. So many good friends, too. As she followed Professor McGonagall toward the stage, she saw that the Weasleys were in the VIP box, along with a man sitting all alone. Her parents were talking with Mrs. Weasley. As they climbed onto the stage, she noticed that there were two more chairs there than during practice. She wondered who else was coming. As they passed Professor Dumbledore and the Head of Houses seats, she calmly began practicing her speech.
When everyone was seated, Professor Dumbledore walked to the podium. "Friends, Parents, Graduates..welcome! I find myself torn today. I am so happy for these fine graduates.ready to face the world. At the same time I feel sadness. I will miss them and I want them to know that the doors of Hogwarts will be open to them always."
Everyone cheered and Dumbledore nodded. "Thank you. We have some additional guests here today. Will you please welcome Kingsley Shacklebolt who is the Head Auror at the Ministry of Magic!"
As Harry watched him make his way to the stage, he looked at Harry and smiled. Harry smiled back. Harry glanced up and saw Mrs. Weasley smiling at him. He noticed that Sirius wasn't anywhere to be seen. Maybe he needed to rest. Harry looked up as Professor Dumbledore continued.
"As you all know, Cornelius Fudge resigned as Minister of Magic. Three days ago, a new Minister was elected and is making his first Public Appearance here today. I have known this man since he attended Hogwarts and am very confident he will make an excellent Minister. May I present to you Arthur Weasley, newly elected Minster of Magic!"
The Great Hall erupted. Cheers and clapping greeted Mr. Weasley as he walked down the aisle. He waved and smiled up to his wife who looked shocked. Ron was jumping up and down as was Harry and Hermione. As Mr. Weasley walked down the aisle toward the stage, the photographer for the Daily Prophet took his picture as he shook everyone's hand.
As he finally made it to the stage, he walked straight over to Dumbledore and gave him a hug. Watching as Mr. Weasley moved toward his seat, Dumbledore turned toward the audience and motioned for silence. "We shall now introduce the graduates. As each house is called, the Head of House will come forward to read the names of the graduates in their house. We shall start with Ravenclaw."
As the list of graduates was read, each moved to the stage to accept their scroll from Professor Dumbledore. After Ravenclaw was done it was Slytherin's Turn, followed by Hufflepuff and lastly Gryffindor.
Professor McGonagall turned to Hermione and Harry, motioning them forward. Turning to the audience, she said "And now I would like to present our Head Boy and Head Girl with their scrolls." She turned and congratulated each then went to sit down.
Harry and Hermione moved toward the podium. Hermione unfolded her notes and began.
"Fellow Graduates, Mr. Minister, Headmaster, Staff and Guests. Who would believe that seven years ago we started out as novices here at Hogwarts? Looking back at all we've accomplished it seems that our time here has flown by. All that we have become we owe to Hogwarts."
Harry continued "But it is up to each of us to determine where we go from here. Some of us may pursue additional training, some may go to play professional Quidditch or even work in the Ministry. But we will always have fond memories of friends made and lessons learned during our seven years here."
Hermione smiled. "We will miss the Professors, the friends and the Castle. But I know that we will all carry a piece of Hogwarts with us in our hearts. Thank you."
Hermione and Harry went back to their seats during the applause. After it died down, Kingsley Shacklebolt stood up and walked toward the podium.
"Becoming an Auror is not an easy task. You must excel at many subjects but also have courage and determination. Many apply each year, but few are accepted into the training program. This year we have two individuals that will join us in September at the training academy. These individuals are Harry Potter and Neville Longbottom. They are to be congratulated. Gentlemen, you will receive an owl from the Ministry in early August. I look forward to seeing you in September!"
As he took his seat to another round of applause, Hermione leaned over to Harry. "Why didn't you tell us?" she whispered.
"I found out yesterday and wasn't allowed to tell. If I had told anyone, my name would have been withdrawn" finished Harry.
Now Mr. Weasley stood up and approached the podium. "Ladies and Gentlemen, let me begin by telling you what a wonderful feeling it is to be standing here enjoying this day with these fine young men and women. I have come to know several of them over the past few years and I am glad to count them among my friends.and family. As the Headmaster told you, I was elected three days ago as Minister. I find it fortunate that the first two acts of my tenure as Minister of Magic involve individuals I have come to respect. Let me begin by saying both of these are long overdue."
Opening his briefcase, he selected a folder full of parchment and began reading out loud. "Hereby and forthwith, the Wizard known as Sirius Black has been cleared in all charges regarding the murder of Peter Pettigrew. All monies and lands belonging to Mr. Black shall be returned and all records expunged. In addition, the amount of 200,000 galleons shall be transferred into his vaults at Gringotts. Signed, Arthur Weasley, Minister of Magic and dated this morning.
"Sirius, please stand." The older man in the VIP box stood and removed his cloak. Sirius was standing, smiling at everyone.
Mr. Weasley continued. "As many of you know, Mr. Black was wrongfully accused in the murders of James and Lily Potter and Peter Pettigrew. Mr. Black served time in Azkaban before escaping and helping to prove his innocence. Mr. Black, as Minister, I deeply apologize.
"Now on to my second official act as Minister. As you all know, Harry Potter vanquished his enemy earlier this year. I have come to know Harry very well over the past several years and we have thought long and hard about how we could show our gratitude for his actions." He unrolled a parchment and began to read.
"Be it known, that the wizard known as HARRY JAMES POTTER, having shown outstanding bravery and loyalty to Wizards everywhere, is hereby awarded the ORDER OF MERLIN, FIRST CLASS. His deeds, already famous, speak volumes about his good character and skills as a wizard. Congratulations Harry and we are proud to count you among our friends. Signed, Arthur Weasley, Minister of Magic. Harry please step forward."
Harry, in total shock, had to be escorted by Professor Dumbledore. When they reached the podium, Mr. Weasley pulled out a box from his briefcase. Opening the box, he pulled out a gold medallion that he showed to the audience. The clapping and cheering had started as Harry stood up and increased in volume at the display of the medallion. Mr. Weasley placed the medallion in Harry's hand and stood back to join in the cheering. Harry stood there with tears running down his face, smiling.
A/N: Thanks for my reviewers and my beta reader! I hope you like my take on things so far, but remember: things hardly ever go the way they should for poor Harry..so stay tuned!
Harry checked for the hundredth time to make sure his glasses were on straight. He glanced at the clock and saw that it was 2:30. With a heavy sigh, he moved toward the door. He opened it to find Ginny, Ron and Hermione on the other side deep in conversation.
".well, do you think we should tell him?" asked Ron.
"Absolutely!" said Ginny. "Harry and I have no secrets."
"Hem, hem!"
Ron jumped and Ginny looked around nervously, which made Harry laugh.
"Bloody hell, Harry!" yelled Ron. "You scared me. Thought old Umbridge was back!"
Harry had trouble talking. "Sorry, mate.couldn't..resist.."
While Harry's laughing calmed down, Ginny looked anxiously on. How could she tell him her suspicions? They were totally ridiculous! She didn't even believe what she was thinking. She frowned.
Harry noticed immediately. He came over and put his arm around her. "What's wrong, Gin?"
"Harry.I think I have seen a ghost!" she blurted out, almost in tears. "I swear I thought I saw Sirius coming into the building."
At that moment, Professor Snape walked by. "Well, if it isn't the Fab Four. Potter, aren't you supposed to be heading downstairs?"
"Right, Professor. Come on! We have to get ready! We will talk about that later, Gin!" Harry said with a twinkle in his eye. ~~~~ The Great Hall looked fabulous decorated for Graduation. The area where the teacher's tables usually stood had been cleared. Several chairs were present and two tables were there. In the center was a podium. On the wall behind the stage hung four banners, one for each of the houses; Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.
The house tables were gone followed by many rows of chairs. Important Guests had a small balcony to one side and Hogwarts Staff had a balcony opposite.
Mrs. Weasley arrived with the boys. She walked up to Mr. Weasley who was deep in conversation with Kingsley Shacklebolt. He turned and smiled to her. "Molly, I was just telling Kingsley about that time in our sixth year when you got mad at me and turned my hair green!"
Mrs. Weasley groaned. "Well you are just lucky the spell wasn't permanent! Are you ready to go in?"
Mr. Weasley shook his head. "No, but you go in. Kingsley will walk you to your seats. I have to wait a few moments for Dumbledore." He gave his wife a kiss and motioned for the boys. "Follow your Mother, boys. I will see you in a bit."
Mrs. Weasley followed Kingsley into the Great Hall. He took them across the room to a set of steps. "Go on up Molly. Arthur isn't the only one waiting on Dumbledore." Noticing her shocked expression, he laughed. "It's ok. The Minister himself approved this." Kingsley headed back out to stand with Mr. Weasley.
Mrs. Weasley looked at her sons and shrugged. The all went up to the balcony and took the seats with their names on them. ~~~~ Sirius watched Harry reluctantly leave the room. He fell back into the chair offered by Dumbledore with a heavy sigh.
"So.today is Harry's Graduation Day. I have been in limbo for almost 2 years," sighed Sirius.
"We have just found the spell to bring you out of the veil, Sirius. It was a very difficult spell and it was only possible because you physically went in. We needed to make sure everything was perfect before we could perform it, because we would only get one chance. How do you feel?" asked Dumbledore.
"Rested," joked Sirius. "Actually, it only felt like I had been in there a very short time when I felt a hand on my shoulder. It was a vast nothingness, just the whispers. I think the only reason I didn't go mad is because it was similar to Azkaban."
The door opened and a house elf bearing a tray of food entered. "Let's eat a bit before we go down to Graduation and I will give you the highlights of Harry's last 2 years."
"First of all, I will not tell you all the details. I am sure Harry will enlighten you as much as you want later. In the past 2 years, Harry has steeled himself to become an auror. His grades have improved in every subject. Let me tell you.even Professor Snape has quit insulting him! He was made Head Boy this year and chose not to be Quidditch Captain. He said he didn't have the time. With Remus and Tonks helping him, he has become very strong in Defense Against the Dark Arts and could easily teach the course!
"As you may or may not know, the battle at the Ministry where you fell was the beginning of the War. Harry had a hard time dealing with you being gone. You would have been proud of him! He fought more valiantly than most adult wizards. About six months ago, Harry went to Godric's Hollow with Remus so that he could see the house where James and Lily lived while they were in hiding. While they were there, Voldemort appeared and managed to knock Remus out. Harry fought and Voldemort went down!
"We verified that Voldemort was dead and that Remus would be ok. Harry returned to studying for his N.E.W.T.S. and the Wizard World celebrated. But the war was not over.the death eaters refused to give up. So they are being tracked down one by one.
"One last thing before we go down to the Great Hall. Harry and Ginny Weasley love each other. I think you will be the first to notice that they look so much like Lily and James. Their relationship is strained at the moment, but still very much alive. Are you ready to go?"
Sirius, deep in thought answered "Do you think it's wise? Won't I shock everyone by being alive? What if the Ministry wants to arrest me?
The Headmaster smiled. "Don't worry, Sirius. Wear this cloak and it will conceal your identity until you are ready to show yourself."
Dumbledore handed Sirius a brown cloak. Sirius put it on and looked in the mirror. He was looking at an older man that was very nondescript. Brown hair, brown eyes and clean shaven. He smiled at Dumbledore as they walked out the door. ~~~~ As the seventh years all milled about outside the Great Hall, Harry watched as Dumbledore stood talking to Mr. Weasley, Shacklebolt and a fourth man Harry did not recognize. His attention was drawn back to the staircase where Professor McGonagall was now standing.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, if I could have your attention!" she called. Almost everyone settled down and turned toward her. "Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger would you please come forward? Please listen, all of you. I remember the night you came across the lake. Here we are preparing to send you out into the world.please know that those of us who teach here are proud to have known you.
"In a few moments, we will proceed. Please line up alphabetically by house. Our Head Boy and Girl will be seated on the stage. Everyone please be on your best behavior! The Daily Prophet is here, as well as the Minister of Magic and several other very important guests! If you are ready lets begin! Follow me."
As Harry gestured for Hermione to go before him she smiled. She remembered walking into the Great Hall for the Sorting.so many good memories. She looked back at Harry. So many good friends, too. As she followed Professor McGonagall toward the stage, she saw that the Weasleys were in the VIP box, along with a man sitting all alone. Her parents were talking with Mrs. Weasley. As they climbed onto the stage, she noticed that there were two more chairs there than during practice. She wondered who else was coming. As they passed Professor Dumbledore and the Head of Houses seats, she calmly began practicing her speech.
When everyone was seated, Professor Dumbledore walked to the podium. "Friends, Parents, Graduates..welcome! I find myself torn today. I am so happy for these fine graduates.ready to face the world. At the same time I feel sadness. I will miss them and I want them to know that the doors of Hogwarts will be open to them always."
Everyone cheered and Dumbledore nodded. "Thank you. We have some additional guests here today. Will you please welcome Kingsley Shacklebolt who is the Head Auror at the Ministry of Magic!"
As Harry watched him make his way to the stage, he looked at Harry and smiled. Harry smiled back. Harry glanced up and saw Mrs. Weasley smiling at him. He noticed that Sirius wasn't anywhere to be seen. Maybe he needed to rest. Harry looked up as Professor Dumbledore continued.
"As you all know, Cornelius Fudge resigned as Minister of Magic. Three days ago, a new Minister was elected and is making his first Public Appearance here today. I have known this man since he attended Hogwarts and am very confident he will make an excellent Minister. May I present to you Arthur Weasley, newly elected Minster of Magic!"
The Great Hall erupted. Cheers and clapping greeted Mr. Weasley as he walked down the aisle. He waved and smiled up to his wife who looked shocked. Ron was jumping up and down as was Harry and Hermione. As Mr. Weasley walked down the aisle toward the stage, the photographer for the Daily Prophet took his picture as he shook everyone's hand.
As he finally made it to the stage, he walked straight over to Dumbledore and gave him a hug. Watching as Mr. Weasley moved toward his seat, Dumbledore turned toward the audience and motioned for silence. "We shall now introduce the graduates. As each house is called, the Head of House will come forward to read the names of the graduates in their house. We shall start with Ravenclaw."
As the list of graduates was read, each moved to the stage to accept their scroll from Professor Dumbledore. After Ravenclaw was done it was Slytherin's Turn, followed by Hufflepuff and lastly Gryffindor.
Professor McGonagall turned to Hermione and Harry, motioning them forward. Turning to the audience, she said "And now I would like to present our Head Boy and Head Girl with their scrolls." She turned and congratulated each then went to sit down.
Harry and Hermione moved toward the podium. Hermione unfolded her notes and began.
"Fellow Graduates, Mr. Minister, Headmaster, Staff and Guests. Who would believe that seven years ago we started out as novices here at Hogwarts? Looking back at all we've accomplished it seems that our time here has flown by. All that we have become we owe to Hogwarts."
Harry continued "But it is up to each of us to determine where we go from here. Some of us may pursue additional training, some may go to play professional Quidditch or even work in the Ministry. But we will always have fond memories of friends made and lessons learned during our seven years here."
Hermione smiled. "We will miss the Professors, the friends and the Castle. But I know that we will all carry a piece of Hogwarts with us in our hearts. Thank you."
Hermione and Harry went back to their seats during the applause. After it died down, Kingsley Shacklebolt stood up and walked toward the podium.
"Becoming an Auror is not an easy task. You must excel at many subjects but also have courage and determination. Many apply each year, but few are accepted into the training program. This year we have two individuals that will join us in September at the training academy. These individuals are Harry Potter and Neville Longbottom. They are to be congratulated. Gentlemen, you will receive an owl from the Ministry in early August. I look forward to seeing you in September!"
As he took his seat to another round of applause, Hermione leaned over to Harry. "Why didn't you tell us?" she whispered.
"I found out yesterday and wasn't allowed to tell. If I had told anyone, my name would have been withdrawn" finished Harry.
Now Mr. Weasley stood up and approached the podium. "Ladies and Gentlemen, let me begin by telling you what a wonderful feeling it is to be standing here enjoying this day with these fine young men and women. I have come to know several of them over the past few years and I am glad to count them among my friends.and family. As the Headmaster told you, I was elected three days ago as Minister. I find it fortunate that the first two acts of my tenure as Minister of Magic involve individuals I have come to respect. Let me begin by saying both of these are long overdue."
Opening his briefcase, he selected a folder full of parchment and began reading out loud. "Hereby and forthwith, the Wizard known as Sirius Black has been cleared in all charges regarding the murder of Peter Pettigrew. All monies and lands belonging to Mr. Black shall be returned and all records expunged. In addition, the amount of 200,000 galleons shall be transferred into his vaults at Gringotts. Signed, Arthur Weasley, Minister of Magic and dated this morning.
"Sirius, please stand." The older man in the VIP box stood and removed his cloak. Sirius was standing, smiling at everyone.
Mr. Weasley continued. "As many of you know, Mr. Black was wrongfully accused in the murders of James and Lily Potter and Peter Pettigrew. Mr. Black served time in Azkaban before escaping and helping to prove his innocence. Mr. Black, as Minister, I deeply apologize.
"Now on to my second official act as Minister. As you all know, Harry Potter vanquished his enemy earlier this year. I have come to know Harry very well over the past several years and we have thought long and hard about how we could show our gratitude for his actions." He unrolled a parchment and began to read.
"Be it known, that the wizard known as HARRY JAMES POTTER, having shown outstanding bravery and loyalty to Wizards everywhere, is hereby awarded the ORDER OF MERLIN, FIRST CLASS. His deeds, already famous, speak volumes about his good character and skills as a wizard. Congratulations Harry and we are proud to count you among our friends. Signed, Arthur Weasley, Minister of Magic. Harry please step forward."
Harry, in total shock, had to be escorted by Professor Dumbledore. When they reached the podium, Mr. Weasley pulled out a box from his briefcase. Opening the box, he pulled out a gold medallion that he showed to the audience. The clapping and cheering had started as Harry stood up and increased in volume at the display of the medallion. Mr. Weasley placed the medallion in Harry's hand and stood back to join in the cheering. Harry stood there with tears running down his face, smiling.
A/N: Thanks for my reviewers and my beta reader! I hope you like my take on things so far, but remember: things hardly ever go the way they should for poor Harry..so stay tuned!
