Okay in this chapter the O.W.L. results are revealed. I know
according to J.K.R. the results are supposed to be given in July but that
didn't fit my story so bear with me.
Chapter 5 - OWLS
Harry threw down the floo powder and said "The Burrow". Instantly the green flames engulfed him and he felt his world spin upside down. Just before he thought he was going to throw-up he felt his feet hit the ground of a brick fireplace. He looked around as the Weasley's living room materialized in front of him. He stood there for a second looking about the room. No one was there. The Burrow was surprisingly quiet, besides that, nothing seemed out of place.
"Mrs. Weasley, Mr. Weasley, is anyone there?" said Harry. He stepped out of the fireplace into the Weasley's living room; he started to get scared when he still didn't see anyone. He wondered what could have happened to them. Dumbledore told him that they were expecting him. "Is anyone here?" He said again.
Harry pulled out his wand, fearing something happened to the Weasley's. He took a step towards the kitchen when he heard a loud, BANG. Lion shaped fireworks exploded, shooting red and gold sparks in all directions. The Weasley's (minus Percy), Hermione, and many of the Order members jumped out from their various hiding spaces and yelled, "Happy Birthday Harry!!!"
Harry tucked his wand back into his pocket as his friends neared. "Happy Birthday mate." Said Ron laughing at Harry's surprised look.
"Yeah happy birthday Harry. Did you like the fireworks?" Said Fred with a huge smile on his face. "We call them Gryffindor Whizzes, part of our newest line," said George with the same smile.
Hermione came up to Harry and gave him a hug, "Happy birthday Harry." She said releasing him, "You'll need to tell us all about your training later, alright?"
"Yeah sure I will." Said Harry as Mrs. Weasley approached him.
"Happy birthday dear." Said Mrs. Weasley with her usual warm and kind expression. "Lets get you settled up stairs, then we'll have some cake."
Harry stood there in disbelief as his friends approached him and wished him a happy birthday. He had no idea that they would have done this for him. He had never had a birthday party before.
Mrs. Weasley took Harry's trunk and resized it upstairs in Ron's room. Harry opened the trunk and took out a medium sized package, wrapped with blue and gold paper, Dumbledore's present. Then he headed down stairs to the party. After having a huge cake that Hermione made, they all settled down in the living room to watch Harry open his gifts.
"Here Harry open mine first" said Ron holding a large package wrapped in brown paper.
Harry went to take it from his friends hands when, Remus Lupin his former defense against the dark arts teacher, took it from Ron and said, "Sorry Ron but I was told to make sure Harry opens this." he picked up the blue and gold package Harry brought down earlier ".first, Dumbledore's orders."
"Fine" said Ron as he took a seat and looked back angrily at his former professor.
Harry took the package from Remus and began to open it as he saw Ron's expression, "Sorry Ron, I'll open yours next." Said Harry, and Ron erased the angry look from his face. Harry finished unwrapping the present and a small envelope fell off the top of it and landed on the floor. Harry picked it up and opened it. He removed the parchment from within and began to read.
Dear Harry,
Over the last few years you have shown great understanding and compassion for others. Last year when you defied Dolores Umbridge, and started the D.A. (Dumbledore's Army), I was very pleased at the progress you made with the students that attended the sessions. Not one student that attended them failed the Defense Against the Dark Arts portion of their O.W.L. examination. That is why I have decided to allow you to continue the D.A.; just in a different form.
You will be the captain of the newly formed Defense against Dark Arts club. On September first there will be a sign-up sheet in each common room for all those who wish to attend. You will have the right to remove any student that does not follow the rules of the club.
Hogwarts will provide you with all necessary equipment. I would like to speak with you after the feast on September first. If you have any questions before that, feel free to send me a letter.
Sincerely, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore
P.S. Happy Birthday Harry
Harry read the letter over twice just to make sure he wasn't dreaming. Not only would he be able to continue with the D.A., but he would also have the permission of the headmaster.
"What is it Harry? What did the letter say?" Said Ron
"It says that Dumbledore wants me to be in charge of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts club at Hogwarts this year." Harry said.
"That's great Harry, so it's now official, we can continue the D.A. just like before." Said Hermione in a rather enthusiastic tone.
"Well not exactly like before. For one thing we won't have to sneak around anymore. Another is there will be a sign-up sheet posted in every common room, and whoever wishes to join may join." Said Harry
"No!!!" said Ron with a furious look in his eyes. "That means the Malfoy, and the other Slytherin prats can come in and ruin the club. How could Dumbledore let this happen?" Said Ron.
"Well he didn't, the letter says I have the authority to remove students that do not follow the rules. Since when have we known the Slytherins to follow rules?" Said Harry.
"Great, so the first day that any of them show up, you can just tell them to leave, and we won't have any problems." Ron said looking at little happier.
"No Ron, Harry can only remove students that break the rules. He can't just tell them to leave if they haven't done anything." Said Hermione.
"She's right Ron, Harry can only get rid of the students who are disrupting the class. Before anymore discussion, could Harry please open the rest of his presents?" Said their ex-Professor, Remus Lupin.
"Oh yeah, go ahead Harry, open the rest of it." Said Ron.
"Okay" Said Harry as he opened the small box. The removed the lid to reveal an antique looking key that had the Hogwart's crest as its handle. Tied to the key was another note that read.
This is the key to the room you will be using for the club Harry. When you arrive I will tell you which door it opens.
Albus Dumbledore
"What is it?" Said Ron
"It's a key to the classroom we'll be able to use for the defense club." Said Harry with his voice shaking a little.
"Really Harry, we get our own classroom? This is great, I can't wait till our first meeting." Said Hermione.
"Yeah me either." Said Harry
Harry set aside the key and letter that Dumbledore gave him and continued to open his gifts. The next one he opened was from Ron. He began to unwrap the large present removing layer by layer until only a box remained. He opened it to find a miniaturized model of the Hogwarts Quidditch pitch, with tiny characters riding brooms. It even had a very tiny bludgers, quaffle, and a minuscule golden snitch.
It took Harry a few seconds to formulate a sentence. He was so taken back by how great the present was. "Ron, this is.it's amazing. Where did you get this? I've never seen anything like it."
"Well that's because there isn't anything else like it. Fred and George made it. I gave them idea, told them what it should be, and they made it for you. It's for creating a game plan, you know for working on new strategies." Said Ron.
"It's great, thank you." Said Harry with a huge smile. He played with the characters for a few seconds before returning to the rest of his presents.
From Hermione he received two books, one called, The Secrets of an Elemental and Spells and Enchantments to Unleash the Power of a Staff. Mrs. Weasley gave him the usual sweets. Ginny gave him another book called, Unbreakable Defense Spells for Elementals. From Fred and George Harry received a huge box of their latest inventions and yet another book called, Pranks of Pranks, learn to surprise your friends and humiliate your enemies. He also received a dark magic detector, Feo Glass, from Mad Eye Moody. From the other Order members Harry received many different defense against the dark arts items for the club.
By the time Harry was done opening presents and thanking everyone, it was very late. Shortly after, everyone headed off to bed. Harry sat on the floor of Ron's room thinking about his day. Not only did he have the best birthday of his life, he also found out he would be in charge of a Defense Against the Dark Arts club. He sat there thinking about new lessons and new spells to teach the new members. Harry thought about the club for a while longer before he couldn't stay awake anymore.
The next morning Harry woke up early to find two school owls sitting on edge of Ron's bed with letters attached to their legs. Harry moved towards the owls and one of them approached him. Harry untied the letter as the owl reached out its leg. The owl affectionately nipped at his fingers and flew out the window. He recognized the Hogwarts Crest stamped onto the back of the letter and pocketed it. He reached for the other owl, which flew to the opposite side of the room and squawked menacingly. Harry decided not to try that again and moved to wakeup Ron.
"Wha.what do you want Harry? What time is it?" Said Ron looking very sleepy.
"Ron get up, there's a school owl here. It won't let me get the letter. I think it's for you, get up!" Said Harry
As Ron began to stir, he and Harry heard someone scream. Seconds later they could hear footsteps as they approached Ron's door. Hermione burst into the room holding a letter that looked like the one Harry received.
"Did you get it? Did you get the letter?" Said Hermione almost out of breath.
"Yeah I did, that's why I was waking Ron." Said Harry.
"Well how did you do? She said.
In unison Harry and Ron replied, "Huh?"
She looked shocked, then angry. "What do you mean, huh? The letters, they're our owl results. You know the tests we took last year? The ones that we stressed over all year long?" She said with her face slightly turning red.
Again Harry and Ron replied in unison, "Oh"
Ron reached for the other school owl as Hermione spoke, "Well aren't you going to open it Harry."
Harry took the letter out of his pocket and examined it. Then he looked up to Hermione and saw that her letter was also unopened. "Well I see you weren't too anxious to open yours either."
"Yeah well, I was a afraid to open it." She said turning pink
Ron who now had his letter in hand said, "Why don't we open each others? That way we won't have to worry about it as much."
"Yeah good idea, Ron I'll open yours, Hermione will open mine, and you can open Hermione's. Alright?
They both said "Yeah" and began to trade envelopes. Once they all had their O.W.L. results in hand, they began to open them. Instantly the room fell silent as the last letter was opened.
Harry was the first to speak, "Erm.Ron, you did pretty good." He said as he handed him the parchment.
Ron looked over Hermione's paper and said, "Bloody hell Hermione, you did awful."
She looked terrified and grabbed the paper from Ron. Hermione looked over the parchment, and then hit Ron on the shoulder. "Don't you ever scare me like that Ronald Weasley! You know how important these are."
"Sorry Hermione, it was only a joke." He said rubbing his shoulder.
Harry couldn't help but laugh. Even in times of extreme stress, Ron could still make jokes. "So how did I do Hermione?" Harry said.
"You did pretty good. Here" She said as she handed him the paper without taking her eyes off her own.
Harry looked down at the paper and began to read.
Dear Mr. Harry Potter,
We are pleased to send you the results of your O.W.L. examinations. Please look over them carefully. The classes you will choose for six and seventh year will determine which jobs you are eligible for in the future, so choose wisely.
Your results are as followed, Charms E (Exceeds Expectations) Transfiguration E (Exceeds Expectations) Herbology A (Acceptable) Defense Against the Dark Arts O (Outstanding)
Potions O (Outstanding) Care of Magical Creatures O (Outstanding)
History of Magic D (Dreadful)
Astronomy A (Acceptable) Divination P (Poor)
A list of classes available to you has also been sent. Please review the list carefully. You are expected to have all materials for each class on September first.
Sincerely,
Professor Tofty, Member of the Wizarding Examination Authority
Harry couldn't help but be happy. He would be able to take all the necessary courses to become an Auror. He couldn't believe he did so well in potions. He never thought he would even get an E let alone an O. He had a huge smile on his face when he looked up from the paper.
"Well how did you do Hermione?" Said Harry.
But before she could answer Ron interrupted. "She did great, unbelievable really. I mean getting ten O.W.L.'s that's amazing. Not to mention seven of them are O's and the other three are E's."
Hermione began to blush as Ron spoke. She managed to get a few words out before turning any brighter, "I did pretty good. I was hoping to do better in Ancient Runes, but I knew I missed a few questions."
"How did you do Harry?" Said Ron still looking at his results
"I did pretty good. I failed History of Magic but I got an Outstanding in potions. I can't believe that, but it was a lot easier to concoct a potion without having Snape standing over me. Another good thing about it is, I have the grades to take the necessary classes for Auror training." Said Harry feeling very relieved.
"Yeah I know what you mean. I got an Outstanding too. I never thought that would happen. I think you're right though, without Snape breathing down my neck I could actually do something. Mom will be happy about Potions but I might get a howler for the Dreadful in Divination and History of Magic. But I can't wait to see Snape's face when he sees us back in the dungeons." Said Ron laughing at his own joke. "And about the Auror classes, I think I'll be taking them too. It was the only job that I was interested in."
"Yeah I'll be attending those classes too." Said Hermione.
Both Harry and Ron went quiet and stared back at Hermione, "What do you mean? You want to be an Auror too?" Said Ron.
"Yes I do Ron. It's for the same reason you said. I thought it would be fun, and it's not like we haven't done anything dangerous before. We've probably seen more dark wizards then most of the Aurors have." Said Hermione glaring at Ron.
Harry decided to break up the situation before an argument started, "I think it's brilliant. We'll be in almost all the same classes." He said as he looked at Ron, ".and Hermione can take all the notes to make sure we don't fail anything."
"I will not. You two will do your own work." Hermione said furiously.
"I know, I know. I was just kidding Hermione." Said Harry laughing as Hermione's anger faded.
"We better get down stairs for breakfast." Said Ron "Mum will want to know all about our O.W.L. results."
The rest of the morning was spent talking about many different subjects. First the conversation was centered on the O.W.L. results, which Mrs. Weasley was very happy about. Even though Ron didn't pass two of his exams, she was very happy to hear that he managed to get seven O.W.L.'s. What made her even happier was the four E's (in Charms, Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Care of Magical Creatures), not to mention the O in Potions. They also talked about Harry's training over the summer. Harry told them all about: Dumbledore's house, the Phoenix Staff, and the training sessions with Professor Snape. Ron hated the thought of Snape teaching Harry in the summer. After talking all morning Mrs. Weasley decided it would be a good time to go to Diagon Alley to get their school supplies.
They all traveled by floo powder to the Leaky Cauldron. After Mrs. Weasley tapped the bricks to reveal Diagon Alley, Hermione checked her class list.
"Well we need to take all the necessary classes for Auror training, so we'll need everything for: Transfiguration, Potions, Charms, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. Those are the basic classes; we should look through the list to find anything else that interests us."
The trio took a seat at Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor to discuss which classes they should take. Mrs. Weasley and Ginny went to the second hand robe store to buy Ginny some new robes.
"Well we have to take Care of Magical Creatures." Said Harry.
"Yeah Hagrid wouldn't be to happy with us if we didn't. It would break his heart." Said Hermione.
"What about this?" Said Ron, pointing at the list of classes. "The class is called Sensory Training. It looks interesting, here." Ron handed the paper to Harry for him to read.
Sensory Training - A new course offered to sixth and seventh year students. In this class you will learn to hone your five senses. You will learn to function normally without your sight, hearing, and touch. This class is very helpful for dueling and is also offered to witches and wizards training to become Aurors.
"I think we should do it." Said Harry as he passed the paper to Hermione.
After she read the description, checked which books and supplies they needed she agreed. They also agreed on taking advanced Herbology, History of Magic (which took a lot of reasoning from Hermione), and another year of Astronomy. Hermione would also be taking Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy.
After stopping off at Gringotts, Harry, Ron, and Hermione went to Flourish and Blotts for their spell books. They spent most of their time trying to find a book Hagrid assigned them. They looked all over the store until they finally gave in and asked the manager.
"Excuse me sir, could you tell me where I can find the book, Advanced Monsters of Monsters?" asked Harry politely.
"Oh, one of those books. Yeah come on follow me." Said the manager.
Harry followed the man up stairs to a strange looking book shelf. Each book was held separately in its own place, firmly tied down and locked in. Through the shackles Harry could see the books title imprinted on its spine. Just like the books Hagrid assigned last year these ones were alive, and seemed a little more vicious then before.
"They have to be kept apart I'm afraid. The first edition of these I had last year nearly tore each other apart." Said the manager as he put on the same thick gloves Harry had seen him wear last year. As the man approached the books they all began to struggle against their shackles.
As the man was about to open the first cage Harry remembered something, "Excuse me sir, but there is a trick to these books. I learned it last year. If you don't mind I could show you."
"No, by all means. These things have been driving me crazy." Said the man.
Harry walked up to the books and put his finger through the restraints and moved it down the books spine. Instantly the book fell silent and stopped moving. The manager opened the lock and pulled out the now docile book.
"That was amazing. Why didn't anyone tell me this before?" Said the manager.
The manager was so happy he gave Harry the three books for free, and thanked him profusely. After getting all the books and supplies they needed Harry and Ron dragged Hermione to the Quality Quidditch Supply Store. The second they rounded the corner; Harry could see a huge crowd around the shop's window. Harry and Ron pushed their way to the front. Once they got close enough they could see a shiny new broom in the window. It had the same look as Harry's firebolt accept: the handle was a glossy black, the tail went from black to white, and instead of the engraving Firebolt, there was a single gold lightening bolt carved into the dark wood. Harry and Ron moved closer to the window to read the sign.
The Bolt
The Bolt is the predecessor to the world renowned Firebolt. This new broom is aerodynamically perfect down to the last twig. It's nearly twice as fast as the Firebolt and definitely more responsive. Price upon request
"Bloody hell. Twice as fast as the Firebolt, I didn't think that was possible." Said Ron as the trio moved away from the crowd.
"Yeah I know" Said Harry. He really liked his Firebolt but the new broom seemed perfect for him. The lightening bolt carved into the wood seemed to match the scar on his forehead perfectly. It was like the people who made it copied it from him.
After stopping off at the Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes Harry, Ron and Hermione decided to head back to the Burrow, but before they did Harry noticed something. There was a new shop just passed Eelop's Owl Emporium. Over the small shop hung as sign that read, Dark Wizard Defense. Harry walked in and found the place filled with dark magic detectors. After looking around for a while he found a watch that worked like feo glass, accept it had a much smaller range. Behind the hands of the watch it had a small feo glass face. The sales man explained what it was and how it worked as Harry bought it. The man told him that its range was rather limited but it would help tell who is trust worthy and who isn't. After paying for the items the trio and Mrs. Weasley took the floo network back to the Burrow.
The next few days were uneventful. Harry and Ron played a few games of chess, which Ron always won, and they talked more about Harry's training. On the morning of September first it was just like normal. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny had to get to platform nine and three quarters before their train left. The ministry provided them with cars and they got to the station without any problems. After boarding the Train and saying their goodbyes, Harry and Ginny took a seat in an empty compartment while Ron and Hermione went to the prefects car.
As Harry sat down he took off the pouch that contained his staff and put it by his side. He looked down the train's corridor before shutting the compartment door and turned to Ginny.
"I can't wait to get back to Hogwarts" Said Ginny.
"Yeah me either. I've always thought of Hogwarts as my home. I hated going to my aunt and uncles house." Said Harry.
"Yeah I would hate it too. From what dad told me they were the worst sort of muggles." She said
"That is definitely true." Said Harry with a slight chuckle.
Harry and Ginny talked for a while as the train pulled out of the station. He thought it was strange that just two years ago Ginny couldn't even look at him without blushing and now they were having a conversation. After about half an hour the compartment door opened to reveal two large figures and a skinny boy with white hair and grey eyes.
"Oh isn't this cute, little weasel and scar head all alone together." Said Malfoy with his face showing nothing but hate.
"Get out Malfoy you stupid prat." Said Ginny showing equal hate for the Slytherin.
"Be careful there weasel, or you'll be in detention before we even get to Hogwarts. Remember I am a prefect." Said Malfoy.
"Get out Malfoy or you'll have to deal with me, and I don't care about getting detention." Said Harry now standing.
"Is that so Potter? Well then your no real match for me, now are you." Said Draco. As he spoke Crabbe and Goyle stepped forward towards Harry.
Harry reached for his staff to defend himself, just before he grabbed the pouch Malfoy tried to pick it up. Instantly a resounding crack filled the air. The staff unsheathed itself and stood in the middle of the compartment, its emerald top shown bright green. Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle stared it in amazement.
"What is it?" Said Goyle.
Malfoy reached for the staff and it responded. The phoenix engraving began to glow and a barrier went up around the staff. It through Malfoy and his groupies against the opposite wall; their bodies smacked against the compartment door with a sickening thud. Harry quickly put the staff back into its sheath and closed the door.
"What was that?" Said Ginny
"Well.the staff really doesn't like other people. I was the only one it allowed to touch it after its creation. I guess it didn't like Malfoy either, and Crabbe and Goyle just got in the way." Said Harry.
Moments later Hermione and Ron opened the door. They looked at Harry then back down at the three bodies lying on the floor.
"What did you do to them?" Said Hermione in a very serious tone.
"Nothing. The staff did this." Said Harry.
Ron started laughing, "It took care of Malfoy and his goons all by itself?" He managed to get out while continuing to laugh.
"Yeah it did" Said Ginny. "It was amazing."
"Well we better get them out of the way. Lets wake them and find them a compartment." Said Hermione.
"Alright, I will go get some water." Said Ron.
"No need" Said Hermione, and with a flick of her wand a stream of water shot from the tip, soaking the three Slytherin.
Almost instantly they woke and stared back at the Gryffindors standing over them. Malfoy was the first to his feet.
"What happened? Why are we on the floor? And bloody hell, why am I so wet?" Said Draco.
Harry stood there for a second thinking, "He couldn't remember what happened? Did the staff do this to him?" After a few seconds Harry answered Draco.
"You fainted Malfoy, Hermione woke you now get back to your compartment before you do it again."
"Oh really." said Malfoy pointing down at Crabbe and Goyle, ". just fainted did we, all of us? At once, do you really expect me to believe that?"
"Yeah I do, freak thing really. You just kind of made a whimper and fell. Those two" said Harry pointing towards Crabbe and Goyle, "Just followed you like they always do."
"Do you think you're funny do you? I mean hexing us, then putting a memory charm on us, that's low Potter even for you. Just wait until Professor Snape hears about this." Said the very angry Slytherin.
Malfoy didn't say another word he just told Crabbe and Goyle to get up and walked towards the back of the train.
"They couldn't remember?" asked Ron.
"I guess not, I mean that was a pretty heavy blow, they might just have hit their heads to hard to remember. Or the staff just erased their memories. I don't really know." Said Harry.
"That thing" said Ron, pointing at the sheathed staff, "is a little scary you know that?"
"Yeah it is, but I think it will be okay until someone else tries to touch it. It really didn't like that" Said Harry.
"Ron's right Harry it is a little scary. Soon as I get the chance I'm going to see If I can find anything else about it in the library, but until then try to make sure no one else touches it" Said Hermione looking at Harry with a serious expression on her face.
"Yeah I will," said Harry as he tied the pouch back onto his robes.
The rest of the train ride was pretty uneventful. The four of them continued to talk about the staff. Each with a different theory on what it did. Ron was pretty unsure about it, but he was sure of one thing. He wasn't going to try to touch it.
Harry stared out the window watching as the sun set. He knew that they must be close to the Hogwarts station. Just then the train's engine slowed and the brakes went on. After the train came to a complete stop Harry told Ron to wait a moment. Hermione and Ginny stepped out of the compartment and looked back to Ron and Harry.
"Aren't you coming?" said Hermione
"Yeah, we'll catch up with you in a minute." Said Harry.
When the girls were gone Harry turned to Ron. He pulled out the Marauder's map and key and handed them to Ron. He knew he couldn't tell Ron everything but he thought Ron should know how to activate the map. Ron looked back at Harry wondering why he and what he just gave him.
"What is this Harry?" said Ron holding the Marauder's key.
"I can't tell you that. It's something you'll have to find out for yourself. After everyone has headed towards their common rooms, I want you to take this," Harry pointed to the key, "and touch the map with it. Whatever appears make sure to pay attention."
"I don't understand," said Ron.
"I know, I didn't either at first, but you will. When you're done with it give it back to me, okay?" he said.
"Yeah sure mate. We better hurry up, we'll miss the carriages if we don't" said Ron with a bewildered look.
"Yeah you're right, lets go" Said Harry.
As Harry got off the train Ron turned to him and said, "Welcome home." And they headed towards the carriages.
Chapter 5 - OWLS
Harry threw down the floo powder and said "The Burrow". Instantly the green flames engulfed him and he felt his world spin upside down. Just before he thought he was going to throw-up he felt his feet hit the ground of a brick fireplace. He looked around as the Weasley's living room materialized in front of him. He stood there for a second looking about the room. No one was there. The Burrow was surprisingly quiet, besides that, nothing seemed out of place.
"Mrs. Weasley, Mr. Weasley, is anyone there?" said Harry. He stepped out of the fireplace into the Weasley's living room; he started to get scared when he still didn't see anyone. He wondered what could have happened to them. Dumbledore told him that they were expecting him. "Is anyone here?" He said again.
Harry pulled out his wand, fearing something happened to the Weasley's. He took a step towards the kitchen when he heard a loud, BANG. Lion shaped fireworks exploded, shooting red and gold sparks in all directions. The Weasley's (minus Percy), Hermione, and many of the Order members jumped out from their various hiding spaces and yelled, "Happy Birthday Harry!!!"
Harry tucked his wand back into his pocket as his friends neared. "Happy Birthday mate." Said Ron laughing at Harry's surprised look.
"Yeah happy birthday Harry. Did you like the fireworks?" Said Fred with a huge smile on his face. "We call them Gryffindor Whizzes, part of our newest line," said George with the same smile.
Hermione came up to Harry and gave him a hug, "Happy birthday Harry." She said releasing him, "You'll need to tell us all about your training later, alright?"
"Yeah sure I will." Said Harry as Mrs. Weasley approached him.
"Happy birthday dear." Said Mrs. Weasley with her usual warm and kind expression. "Lets get you settled up stairs, then we'll have some cake."
Harry stood there in disbelief as his friends approached him and wished him a happy birthday. He had no idea that they would have done this for him. He had never had a birthday party before.
Mrs. Weasley took Harry's trunk and resized it upstairs in Ron's room. Harry opened the trunk and took out a medium sized package, wrapped with blue and gold paper, Dumbledore's present. Then he headed down stairs to the party. After having a huge cake that Hermione made, they all settled down in the living room to watch Harry open his gifts.
"Here Harry open mine first" said Ron holding a large package wrapped in brown paper.
Harry went to take it from his friends hands when, Remus Lupin his former defense against the dark arts teacher, took it from Ron and said, "Sorry Ron but I was told to make sure Harry opens this." he picked up the blue and gold package Harry brought down earlier ".first, Dumbledore's orders."
"Fine" said Ron as he took a seat and looked back angrily at his former professor.
Harry took the package from Remus and began to open it as he saw Ron's expression, "Sorry Ron, I'll open yours next." Said Harry, and Ron erased the angry look from his face. Harry finished unwrapping the present and a small envelope fell off the top of it and landed on the floor. Harry picked it up and opened it. He removed the parchment from within and began to read.
Dear Harry,
Over the last few years you have shown great understanding and compassion for others. Last year when you defied Dolores Umbridge, and started the D.A. (Dumbledore's Army), I was very pleased at the progress you made with the students that attended the sessions. Not one student that attended them failed the Defense Against the Dark Arts portion of their O.W.L. examination. That is why I have decided to allow you to continue the D.A.; just in a different form.
You will be the captain of the newly formed Defense against Dark Arts club. On September first there will be a sign-up sheet in each common room for all those who wish to attend. You will have the right to remove any student that does not follow the rules of the club.
Hogwarts will provide you with all necessary equipment. I would like to speak with you after the feast on September first. If you have any questions before that, feel free to send me a letter.
Sincerely, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore
P.S. Happy Birthday Harry
Harry read the letter over twice just to make sure he wasn't dreaming. Not only would he be able to continue with the D.A., but he would also have the permission of the headmaster.
"What is it Harry? What did the letter say?" Said Ron
"It says that Dumbledore wants me to be in charge of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts club at Hogwarts this year." Harry said.
"That's great Harry, so it's now official, we can continue the D.A. just like before." Said Hermione in a rather enthusiastic tone.
"Well not exactly like before. For one thing we won't have to sneak around anymore. Another is there will be a sign-up sheet posted in every common room, and whoever wishes to join may join." Said Harry
"No!!!" said Ron with a furious look in his eyes. "That means the Malfoy, and the other Slytherin prats can come in and ruin the club. How could Dumbledore let this happen?" Said Ron.
"Well he didn't, the letter says I have the authority to remove students that do not follow the rules. Since when have we known the Slytherins to follow rules?" Said Harry.
"Great, so the first day that any of them show up, you can just tell them to leave, and we won't have any problems." Ron said looking at little happier.
"No Ron, Harry can only remove students that break the rules. He can't just tell them to leave if they haven't done anything." Said Hermione.
"She's right Ron, Harry can only get rid of the students who are disrupting the class. Before anymore discussion, could Harry please open the rest of his presents?" Said their ex-Professor, Remus Lupin.
"Oh yeah, go ahead Harry, open the rest of it." Said Ron.
"Okay" Said Harry as he opened the small box. The removed the lid to reveal an antique looking key that had the Hogwart's crest as its handle. Tied to the key was another note that read.
This is the key to the room you will be using for the club Harry. When you arrive I will tell you which door it opens.
Albus Dumbledore
"What is it?" Said Ron
"It's a key to the classroom we'll be able to use for the defense club." Said Harry with his voice shaking a little.
"Really Harry, we get our own classroom? This is great, I can't wait till our first meeting." Said Hermione.
"Yeah me either." Said Harry
Harry set aside the key and letter that Dumbledore gave him and continued to open his gifts. The next one he opened was from Ron. He began to unwrap the large present removing layer by layer until only a box remained. He opened it to find a miniaturized model of the Hogwarts Quidditch pitch, with tiny characters riding brooms. It even had a very tiny bludgers, quaffle, and a minuscule golden snitch.
It took Harry a few seconds to formulate a sentence. He was so taken back by how great the present was. "Ron, this is.it's amazing. Where did you get this? I've never seen anything like it."
"Well that's because there isn't anything else like it. Fred and George made it. I gave them idea, told them what it should be, and they made it for you. It's for creating a game plan, you know for working on new strategies." Said Ron.
"It's great, thank you." Said Harry with a huge smile. He played with the characters for a few seconds before returning to the rest of his presents.
From Hermione he received two books, one called, The Secrets of an Elemental and Spells and Enchantments to Unleash the Power of a Staff. Mrs. Weasley gave him the usual sweets. Ginny gave him another book called, Unbreakable Defense Spells for Elementals. From Fred and George Harry received a huge box of their latest inventions and yet another book called, Pranks of Pranks, learn to surprise your friends and humiliate your enemies. He also received a dark magic detector, Feo Glass, from Mad Eye Moody. From the other Order members Harry received many different defense against the dark arts items for the club.
By the time Harry was done opening presents and thanking everyone, it was very late. Shortly after, everyone headed off to bed. Harry sat on the floor of Ron's room thinking about his day. Not only did he have the best birthday of his life, he also found out he would be in charge of a Defense Against the Dark Arts club. He sat there thinking about new lessons and new spells to teach the new members. Harry thought about the club for a while longer before he couldn't stay awake anymore.
The next morning Harry woke up early to find two school owls sitting on edge of Ron's bed with letters attached to their legs. Harry moved towards the owls and one of them approached him. Harry untied the letter as the owl reached out its leg. The owl affectionately nipped at his fingers and flew out the window. He recognized the Hogwarts Crest stamped onto the back of the letter and pocketed it. He reached for the other owl, which flew to the opposite side of the room and squawked menacingly. Harry decided not to try that again and moved to wakeup Ron.
"Wha.what do you want Harry? What time is it?" Said Ron looking very sleepy.
"Ron get up, there's a school owl here. It won't let me get the letter. I think it's for you, get up!" Said Harry
As Ron began to stir, he and Harry heard someone scream. Seconds later they could hear footsteps as they approached Ron's door. Hermione burst into the room holding a letter that looked like the one Harry received.
"Did you get it? Did you get the letter?" Said Hermione almost out of breath.
"Yeah I did, that's why I was waking Ron." Said Harry.
"Well how did you do? She said.
In unison Harry and Ron replied, "Huh?"
She looked shocked, then angry. "What do you mean, huh? The letters, they're our owl results. You know the tests we took last year? The ones that we stressed over all year long?" She said with her face slightly turning red.
Again Harry and Ron replied in unison, "Oh"
Ron reached for the other school owl as Hermione spoke, "Well aren't you going to open it Harry."
Harry took the letter out of his pocket and examined it. Then he looked up to Hermione and saw that her letter was also unopened. "Well I see you weren't too anxious to open yours either."
"Yeah well, I was a afraid to open it." She said turning pink
Ron who now had his letter in hand said, "Why don't we open each others? That way we won't have to worry about it as much."
"Yeah good idea, Ron I'll open yours, Hermione will open mine, and you can open Hermione's. Alright?
They both said "Yeah" and began to trade envelopes. Once they all had their O.W.L. results in hand, they began to open them. Instantly the room fell silent as the last letter was opened.
Harry was the first to speak, "Erm.Ron, you did pretty good." He said as he handed him the parchment.
Ron looked over Hermione's paper and said, "Bloody hell Hermione, you did awful."
She looked terrified and grabbed the paper from Ron. Hermione looked over the parchment, and then hit Ron on the shoulder. "Don't you ever scare me like that Ronald Weasley! You know how important these are."
"Sorry Hermione, it was only a joke." He said rubbing his shoulder.
Harry couldn't help but laugh. Even in times of extreme stress, Ron could still make jokes. "So how did I do Hermione?" Harry said.
"You did pretty good. Here" She said as she handed him the paper without taking her eyes off her own.
Harry looked down at the paper and began to read.
Dear Mr. Harry Potter,
We are pleased to send you the results of your O.W.L. examinations. Please look over them carefully. The classes you will choose for six and seventh year will determine which jobs you are eligible for in the future, so choose wisely.
Your results are as followed, Charms E (Exceeds Expectations) Transfiguration E (Exceeds Expectations) Herbology A (Acceptable) Defense Against the Dark Arts O (Outstanding)
Potions O (Outstanding) Care of Magical Creatures O (Outstanding)
History of Magic D (Dreadful)
Astronomy A (Acceptable) Divination P (Poor)
A list of classes available to you has also been sent. Please review the list carefully. You are expected to have all materials for each class on September first.
Sincerely,
Professor Tofty, Member of the Wizarding Examination Authority
Harry couldn't help but be happy. He would be able to take all the necessary courses to become an Auror. He couldn't believe he did so well in potions. He never thought he would even get an E let alone an O. He had a huge smile on his face when he looked up from the paper.
"Well how did you do Hermione?" Said Harry.
But before she could answer Ron interrupted. "She did great, unbelievable really. I mean getting ten O.W.L.'s that's amazing. Not to mention seven of them are O's and the other three are E's."
Hermione began to blush as Ron spoke. She managed to get a few words out before turning any brighter, "I did pretty good. I was hoping to do better in Ancient Runes, but I knew I missed a few questions."
"How did you do Harry?" Said Ron still looking at his results
"I did pretty good. I failed History of Magic but I got an Outstanding in potions. I can't believe that, but it was a lot easier to concoct a potion without having Snape standing over me. Another good thing about it is, I have the grades to take the necessary classes for Auror training." Said Harry feeling very relieved.
"Yeah I know what you mean. I got an Outstanding too. I never thought that would happen. I think you're right though, without Snape breathing down my neck I could actually do something. Mom will be happy about Potions but I might get a howler for the Dreadful in Divination and History of Magic. But I can't wait to see Snape's face when he sees us back in the dungeons." Said Ron laughing at his own joke. "And about the Auror classes, I think I'll be taking them too. It was the only job that I was interested in."
"Yeah I'll be attending those classes too." Said Hermione.
Both Harry and Ron went quiet and stared back at Hermione, "What do you mean? You want to be an Auror too?" Said Ron.
"Yes I do Ron. It's for the same reason you said. I thought it would be fun, and it's not like we haven't done anything dangerous before. We've probably seen more dark wizards then most of the Aurors have." Said Hermione glaring at Ron.
Harry decided to break up the situation before an argument started, "I think it's brilliant. We'll be in almost all the same classes." He said as he looked at Ron, ".and Hermione can take all the notes to make sure we don't fail anything."
"I will not. You two will do your own work." Hermione said furiously.
"I know, I know. I was just kidding Hermione." Said Harry laughing as Hermione's anger faded.
"We better get down stairs for breakfast." Said Ron "Mum will want to know all about our O.W.L. results."
The rest of the morning was spent talking about many different subjects. First the conversation was centered on the O.W.L. results, which Mrs. Weasley was very happy about. Even though Ron didn't pass two of his exams, she was very happy to hear that he managed to get seven O.W.L.'s. What made her even happier was the four E's (in Charms, Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Care of Magical Creatures), not to mention the O in Potions. They also talked about Harry's training over the summer. Harry told them all about: Dumbledore's house, the Phoenix Staff, and the training sessions with Professor Snape. Ron hated the thought of Snape teaching Harry in the summer. After talking all morning Mrs. Weasley decided it would be a good time to go to Diagon Alley to get their school supplies.
They all traveled by floo powder to the Leaky Cauldron. After Mrs. Weasley tapped the bricks to reveal Diagon Alley, Hermione checked her class list.
"Well we need to take all the necessary classes for Auror training, so we'll need everything for: Transfiguration, Potions, Charms, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. Those are the basic classes; we should look through the list to find anything else that interests us."
The trio took a seat at Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor to discuss which classes they should take. Mrs. Weasley and Ginny went to the second hand robe store to buy Ginny some new robes.
"Well we have to take Care of Magical Creatures." Said Harry.
"Yeah Hagrid wouldn't be to happy with us if we didn't. It would break his heart." Said Hermione.
"What about this?" Said Ron, pointing at the list of classes. "The class is called Sensory Training. It looks interesting, here." Ron handed the paper to Harry for him to read.
Sensory Training - A new course offered to sixth and seventh year students. In this class you will learn to hone your five senses. You will learn to function normally without your sight, hearing, and touch. This class is very helpful for dueling and is also offered to witches and wizards training to become Aurors.
"I think we should do it." Said Harry as he passed the paper to Hermione.
After she read the description, checked which books and supplies they needed she agreed. They also agreed on taking advanced Herbology, History of Magic (which took a lot of reasoning from Hermione), and another year of Astronomy. Hermione would also be taking Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy.
After stopping off at Gringotts, Harry, Ron, and Hermione went to Flourish and Blotts for their spell books. They spent most of their time trying to find a book Hagrid assigned them. They looked all over the store until they finally gave in and asked the manager.
"Excuse me sir, could you tell me where I can find the book, Advanced Monsters of Monsters?" asked Harry politely.
"Oh, one of those books. Yeah come on follow me." Said the manager.
Harry followed the man up stairs to a strange looking book shelf. Each book was held separately in its own place, firmly tied down and locked in. Through the shackles Harry could see the books title imprinted on its spine. Just like the books Hagrid assigned last year these ones were alive, and seemed a little more vicious then before.
"They have to be kept apart I'm afraid. The first edition of these I had last year nearly tore each other apart." Said the manager as he put on the same thick gloves Harry had seen him wear last year. As the man approached the books they all began to struggle against their shackles.
As the man was about to open the first cage Harry remembered something, "Excuse me sir, but there is a trick to these books. I learned it last year. If you don't mind I could show you."
"No, by all means. These things have been driving me crazy." Said the man.
Harry walked up to the books and put his finger through the restraints and moved it down the books spine. Instantly the book fell silent and stopped moving. The manager opened the lock and pulled out the now docile book.
"That was amazing. Why didn't anyone tell me this before?" Said the manager.
The manager was so happy he gave Harry the three books for free, and thanked him profusely. After getting all the books and supplies they needed Harry and Ron dragged Hermione to the Quality Quidditch Supply Store. The second they rounded the corner; Harry could see a huge crowd around the shop's window. Harry and Ron pushed their way to the front. Once they got close enough they could see a shiny new broom in the window. It had the same look as Harry's firebolt accept: the handle was a glossy black, the tail went from black to white, and instead of the engraving Firebolt, there was a single gold lightening bolt carved into the dark wood. Harry and Ron moved closer to the window to read the sign.
The Bolt
The Bolt is the predecessor to the world renowned Firebolt. This new broom is aerodynamically perfect down to the last twig. It's nearly twice as fast as the Firebolt and definitely more responsive. Price upon request
"Bloody hell. Twice as fast as the Firebolt, I didn't think that was possible." Said Ron as the trio moved away from the crowd.
"Yeah I know" Said Harry. He really liked his Firebolt but the new broom seemed perfect for him. The lightening bolt carved into the wood seemed to match the scar on his forehead perfectly. It was like the people who made it copied it from him.
After stopping off at the Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes Harry, Ron and Hermione decided to head back to the Burrow, but before they did Harry noticed something. There was a new shop just passed Eelop's Owl Emporium. Over the small shop hung as sign that read, Dark Wizard Defense. Harry walked in and found the place filled with dark magic detectors. After looking around for a while he found a watch that worked like feo glass, accept it had a much smaller range. Behind the hands of the watch it had a small feo glass face. The sales man explained what it was and how it worked as Harry bought it. The man told him that its range was rather limited but it would help tell who is trust worthy and who isn't. After paying for the items the trio and Mrs. Weasley took the floo network back to the Burrow.
The next few days were uneventful. Harry and Ron played a few games of chess, which Ron always won, and they talked more about Harry's training. On the morning of September first it was just like normal. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny had to get to platform nine and three quarters before their train left. The ministry provided them with cars and they got to the station without any problems. After boarding the Train and saying their goodbyes, Harry and Ginny took a seat in an empty compartment while Ron and Hermione went to the prefects car.
As Harry sat down he took off the pouch that contained his staff and put it by his side. He looked down the train's corridor before shutting the compartment door and turned to Ginny.
"I can't wait to get back to Hogwarts" Said Ginny.
"Yeah me either. I've always thought of Hogwarts as my home. I hated going to my aunt and uncles house." Said Harry.
"Yeah I would hate it too. From what dad told me they were the worst sort of muggles." She said
"That is definitely true." Said Harry with a slight chuckle.
Harry and Ginny talked for a while as the train pulled out of the station. He thought it was strange that just two years ago Ginny couldn't even look at him without blushing and now they were having a conversation. After about half an hour the compartment door opened to reveal two large figures and a skinny boy with white hair and grey eyes.
"Oh isn't this cute, little weasel and scar head all alone together." Said Malfoy with his face showing nothing but hate.
"Get out Malfoy you stupid prat." Said Ginny showing equal hate for the Slytherin.
"Be careful there weasel, or you'll be in detention before we even get to Hogwarts. Remember I am a prefect." Said Malfoy.
"Get out Malfoy or you'll have to deal with me, and I don't care about getting detention." Said Harry now standing.
"Is that so Potter? Well then your no real match for me, now are you." Said Draco. As he spoke Crabbe and Goyle stepped forward towards Harry.
Harry reached for his staff to defend himself, just before he grabbed the pouch Malfoy tried to pick it up. Instantly a resounding crack filled the air. The staff unsheathed itself and stood in the middle of the compartment, its emerald top shown bright green. Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle stared it in amazement.
"What is it?" Said Goyle.
Malfoy reached for the staff and it responded. The phoenix engraving began to glow and a barrier went up around the staff. It through Malfoy and his groupies against the opposite wall; their bodies smacked against the compartment door with a sickening thud. Harry quickly put the staff back into its sheath and closed the door.
"What was that?" Said Ginny
"Well.the staff really doesn't like other people. I was the only one it allowed to touch it after its creation. I guess it didn't like Malfoy either, and Crabbe and Goyle just got in the way." Said Harry.
Moments later Hermione and Ron opened the door. They looked at Harry then back down at the three bodies lying on the floor.
"What did you do to them?" Said Hermione in a very serious tone.
"Nothing. The staff did this." Said Harry.
Ron started laughing, "It took care of Malfoy and his goons all by itself?" He managed to get out while continuing to laugh.
"Yeah it did" Said Ginny. "It was amazing."
"Well we better get them out of the way. Lets wake them and find them a compartment." Said Hermione.
"Alright, I will go get some water." Said Ron.
"No need" Said Hermione, and with a flick of her wand a stream of water shot from the tip, soaking the three Slytherin.
Almost instantly they woke and stared back at the Gryffindors standing over them. Malfoy was the first to his feet.
"What happened? Why are we on the floor? And bloody hell, why am I so wet?" Said Draco.
Harry stood there for a second thinking, "He couldn't remember what happened? Did the staff do this to him?" After a few seconds Harry answered Draco.
"You fainted Malfoy, Hermione woke you now get back to your compartment before you do it again."
"Oh really." said Malfoy pointing down at Crabbe and Goyle, ". just fainted did we, all of us? At once, do you really expect me to believe that?"
"Yeah I do, freak thing really. You just kind of made a whimper and fell. Those two" said Harry pointing towards Crabbe and Goyle, "Just followed you like they always do."
"Do you think you're funny do you? I mean hexing us, then putting a memory charm on us, that's low Potter even for you. Just wait until Professor Snape hears about this." Said the very angry Slytherin.
Malfoy didn't say another word he just told Crabbe and Goyle to get up and walked towards the back of the train.
"They couldn't remember?" asked Ron.
"I guess not, I mean that was a pretty heavy blow, they might just have hit their heads to hard to remember. Or the staff just erased their memories. I don't really know." Said Harry.
"That thing" said Ron, pointing at the sheathed staff, "is a little scary you know that?"
"Yeah it is, but I think it will be okay until someone else tries to touch it. It really didn't like that" Said Harry.
"Ron's right Harry it is a little scary. Soon as I get the chance I'm going to see If I can find anything else about it in the library, but until then try to make sure no one else touches it" Said Hermione looking at Harry with a serious expression on her face.
"Yeah I will," said Harry as he tied the pouch back onto his robes.
The rest of the train ride was pretty uneventful. The four of them continued to talk about the staff. Each with a different theory on what it did. Ron was pretty unsure about it, but he was sure of one thing. He wasn't going to try to touch it.
Harry stared out the window watching as the sun set. He knew that they must be close to the Hogwarts station. Just then the train's engine slowed and the brakes went on. After the train came to a complete stop Harry told Ron to wait a moment. Hermione and Ginny stepped out of the compartment and looked back to Ron and Harry.
"Aren't you coming?" said Hermione
"Yeah, we'll catch up with you in a minute." Said Harry.
When the girls were gone Harry turned to Ron. He pulled out the Marauder's map and key and handed them to Ron. He knew he couldn't tell Ron everything but he thought Ron should know how to activate the map. Ron looked back at Harry wondering why he and what he just gave him.
"What is this Harry?" said Ron holding the Marauder's key.
"I can't tell you that. It's something you'll have to find out for yourself. After everyone has headed towards their common rooms, I want you to take this," Harry pointed to the key, "and touch the map with it. Whatever appears make sure to pay attention."
"I don't understand," said Ron.
"I know, I didn't either at first, but you will. When you're done with it give it back to me, okay?" he said.
"Yeah sure mate. We better hurry up, we'll miss the carriages if we don't" said Ron with a bewildered look.
"Yeah you're right, lets go" Said Harry.
As Harry got off the train Ron turned to him and said, "Welcome home." And they headed towards the carriages.
