Authors Note: This is just a quick note to say thankyou to all of the people who have taken the time to read and review my story. Sorry about the delay with this chapter. The reason the first four chapters were submitted together was because it took me that long to figure out how to post my story (not very internet literate I'm afraid). Hope you enjoy.
Chapter 5 – Return to Hogwarts
The night before Harry was to catch the Hogwarts Express to take him back to Hogwarts he began gathering together all of his things. Lupin had told Harry that he would have to be ready early as they were again catching the Knight Bus from down the lane and the walk, with all of his school stuff, could take a while. Harry's room seemed to have items located everywhere and he found himself spending a lot of time on his stomach trying to reach many of them that had collected underneath his bed. Slowly he was able to gather everything together and commence the enormous task of repacking his trunk. Harry was glad that Moody had enlarged his truck as much as he had as Harry would never have been able to fit everything in it before, especially with the additional items he had collected in Diagon Alley. He placed his robes on the top of all the items in his truck making them easy access for when he would need to change on the train. Harry was looking forward to his return to school and had found himself missing Hermione and Ron even more after their brief meeting in Diagon Alley. Harry was also finally coming to terms with the loss of Sirius. He had not been sure how he was going to manage returning to school at the start of holidays due to his feeling of loss and the news Dumbledore had told him. Now however, after staying with Lupin and having the book Luna had sent him Harry felt ready to return to the school that had always felt like home to him. Once his trunk was completely packed Harry began checking his Auror's cloak to ensure that he still had the projectiles that Fred and George had given him, the necklace for Hermione, and his Firebolt when he found the letter he had collected from his vault in Diagon Alley. As Harry was alone in his room he decided it was safe to read his letter.
Dear Harry
If you are reading this letter I have died and I am sorry to have left you alone. Dumbledore always said it was the next great adventure. I hope he was right. I am writing this to say that you were always my highest priority since you lost your parents and I always wanted to give you a home. If I never go to do that I am sorry. The best I can do now is leave you the home I had. I bequeath the Black Family Estate to you Harry. If you are not yet 17 then Lupin will hold the deeds until you are of age. Do with it what you want Harry, it is yours. I also leave you the only the other possession I have. A motorcycle. Hagrid has it with him. He will give it too you. Enjoy it Harry. Be brave Harry as I know you always are. We will meet again, though I hope that it will not be for a while! Take care of yourself.
Sirius
Harry sat stunned looking at the letter in his hand. He could not believe it. 'That's how Lupin knew' Harry thought to himself. He got up and walked out of the room to confront Lupin. Lupin was in the kitchen preparing Harry's farewell dinner.
"Lupin, why didn't you tell me?" Harry asked as he entered the kitchen holding up the letter for Lupin so that he could see what Harry was talking about.
"You finally read it. I was wondering about that" Lupin replied in a sober voice showing no sign of surprise. "Sorry Harry but I thought it better to just let you read it. Sirius wrote it a few months before his death when he was living alone at the Estate. He told me about it and asked me too hold onto it just in case something happened to him. I hoped you would never have to read it. Unfortunate things don't always turn out the way we want. I have the deeds to the Estate in a trust for you and they will be given to you when you are 17. Are you ok Harry?"
The shock Harry felt must have shown on his face "I don't know" Harry replied feeling confused. "What am I going to do with the Estate?" Harry asked.
"You don't have to decide right now Harry" Lupin replied gently. "You don't turn 17 until next year. Spend the year thinking about it. I don't think it would be a good idea to decide anything right now. "Harry had to agree with Lupin on that. Harry did not want to return to the Black Estate and right now did not think he ever would. "Look, dinner is almost ready, why don't you help me finish up. The others will be arriving soon. It will help take your mind of it."
"Others?" Harry asked. He had thought that it would just be him and Lupin.
"Oh, yes, didn't I tell you?" Lupin said smiling. "I invited Tonks, Moody and Shaklebolt over to join us. We have to organise some last minute details about the trip to the train station tomorrow anyway so I thought that they could join us for dinner. I hope that is ok?"
Harry smiled. "Yes, its ok, it will be good to have guests" Harry replied. Though Harry enjoyed Lupins company, it had just been the two of them for most of the last few weeks of the holidays and Harry had spent much of the time revising what he had learnt the year before. This had not been his idea. Every time Lupin had seen Harry looking slightly bored Lupin had 'suggested' that he do some revision as his school work in the coming year would be hectic and would not allow him much revision time. This had meant Harry had spent most of his time with his head in a book. He had sent Hedwig to Ron and Hermione a couple of times and their letter, though brief, had made Harry feel better and less isolated. The idea of actually having extra people to talk to however, cheered Harry up considerably. Harry placed the letter into his pocket and began assisting Lupin in the final preparations for dinner and was setting the table when their guests arrived. They had travelled by Floo Powder and as they walked into the kitchen they were dusting the remnants of ash of their clothing.
"Hello everyone" Lupin said as they walked in. "I hope you are all hungry." Moody replied with a grunt while Tonks and Shacklebolt smiled widely in response.
"Hello Harry, Lupin" Shacklebolt greeted the residents in his deep voice.
"Wotcha" Tonks said as way of greeting.
"HI" Harry returned to the arrivals. He finished setting the table and took a seat. Moody and Shacklebolt sat on Harry's left and Tonks sat on his right. Lupin made a few trips between the kitchen and the dinning table placing numerous serving dishes in front of them containing many of Harry's favourite meals before taking the seat opposite Harry.
"Are you looking forward to returning to school Harry?" Shacklebolt asked while serving himself some ham and chicken pie.
"Yes" Harry replied honestly. "I can't wait"
"You have a lot of work to do this year boy. Are you ready for it?" Moody asked in his low growl focusing both his real and magical eye on him. Harry had always found Moody's stare to be disconcerting.
"I think so" Harry said nervously, though he was not entirely sure himself if it was due to the coming school year or Moody's look. Moody continued to watch him while the rest of the group began digging into the dishes before them. Moody waited until everyone else had served themselves and started eating before choosing his own food. After a brief sniff Moody seemed satisfied that the food was safe and joined the group in the meal. The group talked about the current state of the wizarding world and how the Order was continuing to gather people to their side in the fight against Voldemort. Though Harry had very little to add to the conversation he enjoyed the company and found that it completely diverted his mind from the letter in his pocket.
It was decided that they would have to leave by at least 7am the following morning to get to the Hogwarts Express on time. The trio promised that they would be at Lupins a half an hour before then to ensure that everything was prepared. Harry got the feeling by the way the group discussed the trip that though Tonks, Lupin, Moody and Shacklebolt would be accompanying him on the Knight Bus, there would be other unseen protectors as well. Last year he had not understood the reasons for the elaborate measures that were taken for his protection. Now however, with the knowledge of the prophecy and his own importance, he realised their necessity.
The night wore on as they always do and all too soon the visitors were saying their good byes. "We will see you tomorrow morning Harry. Get a good nights' sleep" Tonks had said as she moved into the fire place. She was the last to leave as the others had already departed. With a quick wave which Harry returned, she was gone.
"Are you all packed Harry?" Lupin asked once the fire had died down.
"Yes, I'm packed" Harry replied.
"Good. Well you should get to bed; we have an early morning tomorrow." Harry had to agree. They said their good nights and Harry returned to his room. He was changing into his pyjamas when he realised that he had not finished checking his cloak for Hermione's present and his Firebolt. Harry picked it up and went though the pockets. His Firebolt was still in the broom stick pocket and he found the bags with the necklaces he had purchased at the antique store. He opened one of the velvet bags and found the sapphire pendent necklace. It was just as beautiful as he remembered it. He returned it to the bag and placed into a small inside pocket of his cloak for safe keeping. Harry opened the second velvet bag and emptied out the jade pendent necklace. 'What am I going to do with this one' he thought to himself as he held it in his hand examining it from different angles. He was suddenly overcome with the desire to put it on. Harry had never been big on jewellery as he had never had a hope of receiving any from the Dursley's. He slipped the necklace on over his head and felt a slight shock as the cold metal rested on his bare skin. The pendent hung just over his heart. Harry found this curious as he did not think the chain had been that long when it was in his hand. The metal warmed quickly against his skin and as he check his reflection in the small mirror and for a second he was sure the jade pendent was the same colour as his eyes.
"What's that" Harry jumped slightly as Sherman's head appeared in the mirror next to Harry.
"It's called a necklace. What do you think?" Harry asked.
"I don't know. Snakes don't wear ornaments. So where are we going?" Harry was initially surprised by the question. He then realised Sherman was talking about the packing Harry had been doing all day.
"We're goffing oou Hogwarts" Harry replied as he pulled his pyjama top on over his head.
"We're what master?" Sherman asked with amusement evident in his voice.
"We're going to Hogwarts, my school, tomorrow morning." Harry repeated in a clearer voice as he got into bed. Sherman slithered into position on top of the covers to Harry's waist. "That reminds me" Harry continued "I wanted to speak to you before we leave. Students are not supposed to have snakes as pets at Hogwarts. You will need to stay hidden pretty much all of the time we are there. Do you understand?"
"As you request" Sherman's said.
"And you are definitely not to bit anyone!" Harry said firmly stressing the point.
"As you request"
"Ok, excellent" Harry said sceptically. Harry felt a little nervous about taking Sherman to school with him. Dumbledore had given Harry permission, so he wasn't worried about if he was allowed. He was more concerned about the information he had read regarding Sherman's transformations when angry. The idea of Sherman attacking someone, anyone, was not a pleasant thought. Sherman moved down to his standard sleeping position at the end of Harry bed while Harry moved further under the covers. Harry's last thoughts before he fell asleep were of Hogwarts and his best friends Ron and Hermione.
"Time to get up Harry" Harry opened his eyes to find Lupin standing above him shaking him gentle. "Come on Harry, you don't want to be late". Though Harry felt like he had just fallen asleep, the drive to get to the Hogwarts Express on time over powered his desire to go back to sleep. Once Lupin was sure Harry was awake he left advising that he would be waiting in the kitchen. Harry rose and got ready to leave as quickly as he could, stopping now and then to double check that Hedwig was in her cage and that items were either in his trunk or in his cloak. Once he was satisfied he had everything he made his way to the kitchen to join Lupin. Harry entered to find Lupin, Tonks and Moody already waiting.
"Breakfast Harry? There's toast and porridge." Lupin said. He was sitting at the table with a piece of toast in his hand dressed in an old jumper and trouser. Tonks and Moody were on either side of him. Tonks was dressed in a pale green t-shirt and jeans and she had gone with long blond hair for the journey. Moody was dressed in the same cloak and bowler hat he had worn the day Harry had seen him at the train station when he had returned from school in July. Harry had a suspicion that these were the only remotely muggle clothing he had.
"Morning Tonks, Professor Moody." Harry nodded to them as he took a seat opposite to Lupin collecting a piece of toast in the process. "Toast will be fine" Lupin smiled in acknowledgement. "Where's Shacklebolt?" Harry asked the group.
"Wotcha Harry" Tonks returned Harry's greeting "He was caught up. He will be along shortly". Moody grunted in displeasure. Harry assumed it was because Shacklebolt was running late. Suddenly the sounds of the fire flaring could be heard coming from the lounge room and seconds later the form of Shacklebolt stood in the door way dressed in denim jeans and a black leather jacket.
"Finally" Moody said as way of greeting to the new arrival.
"Excellent, we are all here. Harry please finish your breakfast while we have a quick word in the lounge room and once you're done we will be off" Lupin said as he got out of his chair and made his way towards the lounge room followed by the others. Harry tried to force feed himself the piece he had already started in an attempt to get himself into a position were he could innocently over hear some of the conversation. After almost choking in the attempt to speed eat Harry finally finished his food and as quietly as he could he got out of his chair and made his way to the doorway.
"Dumbledore has concerns that it someone in the order" Harry recognised Tonks voice "he stressed the need to be on our guard today and to wait until the train actually leaves the station with Harry on it."
"Is the second guard in place?" Lupin asked.
"Yes, they should already be on the bus" Moody's growl responded.
"Good. Well we had better get going. Harry" Harry jumped as he heard his name being called.
"Yes"
"Are you ready to go?" Lupin's voice became clearer indicating that he was moving toward the kitchen. Harry moved back towards the table hoping to appear as though he had just gotten up from the table rather then listening at the door.
"Yes, I just need to get my things." Harry replied now standing beside the table as Lupin entered.
"Good. Tonks and Moody will assist you with your things." Harry made his way to his room followed by Moody and Tonks. Harry collected his cloak from on top of his trunk while Tonks collected Hedwig and Moody charmed his trunk to levitate behind him. Harry was almost out of the door when he realised there was something he had forgotten.
"Sherman" Harry called. The cloak wriggled in this hand and Sherman's head emerged from the pocket he had used previously for travel.
"Yes master?" Sherman asked sleepily.
"Nothing, just checking you were with me" Sherman nodded in response and disappeared back into the cloak. Harry did a final scan of the bedroom for anything he may have left behind from the doorway before walking into the lounge room to join the others. All together they made one of the most unusual looking groups Harry had ever been with.
"Harry" Lupin said seriously "you are to have your hood up at all times throughout the trip." Harry gave a curt nod to indicate he understood. "Right, let's go." The mixed group left Lupins' house and began the long walk down the lane to catch the Knight Bus. It was a fine day without a cloud in the sky and as they began their walk and Harry felt the anticipation of returning to school grow if that was at all possible.
The trip to Kings Cross Station in London was relatively uneventful except for when the bus had to make an extremely sudden stop which left most passengers not only out of their seat but sent many piled at the front of the bus. Seeing his companions in a heap near the conductor's feet struggling to free themselves from each other had been quiet amusing, at least from Harry's point of view. When they exited the bus, many nursing minor injuries, they made their way through the station, collecting a trolley along the way for Harry's trunk.
Platform Nine and Three Quarters was awash with Hogwarts students as Harry and his guard walked through the barrier. There were 15 minutes until the train was due to leave and in the 6 years Harry had attended Hogwarts this was the earliest he had arrived for the train. Once on the platform Harry felt it safe to remove his hood.
"Harry, HARRY" Harry turned his head in the direction from his name was being called and found the owners of the voices. His two best friends, Ron and Hermione, emerged through the sea of people before him. Hermione ran to him and threw her arms around him in a bone crushing hug. As pleased as Harry was to see her his desire to breath overwhelmed him making him request that she release him. With a slightly disappointed expression on her face Hermione released Harry and backed away allowing Ron to come forward to shake Harry's hand in greeting.
"How are you Harry?" Hermione asked her voice subdued.
"Fine, I'm fine" Harry said smiling. "Have you both been here long?"
"Oh, mum and dad dropped me off about 20 minutes ago" Hermione replied her voice returning to normal. "They can't get through the barrier though being muggles so we said our good byes at the front door."
"I got here about 5 minutes ago with Ginny and mum. Bill and Percy" Ron's voice took on an unpleasant tone as he said the last name"also came to see us off". Harry could see the rest of the red headed Weasley tribe making their way through the crowd towards them accompanied by Neville and Luna. As usual Luna looked as though she had joined the group walking towards him by accident. While Harry and his friends were talking Harry's travelling companions had stayed back allowing Harry some private time with his friends. Seeing the approach of the Weasley's brought them forward and the group instantly quadrupled in size. Greeting where passed around between the extended group including Harry's usual hug from Mrs Weasley. Percy, in the manor Harry remembered, stretched out his hand for Harry to shake.
"Good to see you again Harry" Percy said with a wide smile. Harry knew it would be rude not to shake his hand but he was not as happy to see Percy as Percy apparently was to see him. Reluctantly Harry stretched out his hand and, as briefly as he could, shock Percy's.
"How are you Percy?" Harry asked in a cautious voice.
"Excellent Harry and you?" Percy replied in a tone that Harry felt was overly friendly.
"Fine, thank you" Harry said and then purposely turned way from Percy ending the conversation.
"You kids had better get on board" Lupin said checking the clock that hung above the platform "the train will leave in five minutes". Harry, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna and Neville collected their trunks and with the assistance of the rest of the group boarded the train and found an empty cabin towards its rear where they could all fit. They stowed their trunks and their animals in the cabin and accompanied their helpers back to the doors to say final good byes. More hugs and hand shakes where exchanged before the whistle blew and the Hogwarts Express pulled out of the station beginning the long journey back to Hogwarts. Once the station was out of site the Harry, Neville and Luna returned to their compartment. As Ginny had been made the Gryffindor female fifth year Prefect she accompanied Ron, Hermione to the Prefect carriage to receive their instructions. As Harry had been through this the year before he was not as upset by their departure as he knew they would all join him once the debriefing was complete.
"How was your summer break Luna?" Harry asked as they entered their compartment and shut the door.
"Excellent. Daddy and I had a wonderful time on our expedition to Sweden but were not lucky enough to catch a Crumple-Horned Snorkack" she said absently as she pulled the latest edition of the Quibbler out of her pocket sitting down. "Next time" she said under her breath apparently to her self as her face disappeared behind the magazine.
"What about your holiday Harry?" Neville asked after they had taken their seats opposite Luna.
"Oh, it was ok, what about yours?" Harry replied
"Good, my grandmother has been really proud of me. Told all of her friends about what I did at the Ministry"
"How's your plant doing?" Harry asked suddenly remembering the incident on the train the year before and wanting to change the subject.
"Really well" Neville pointed up to the trunk rack were Harry notice the Mimbulus mimbletonia plant. It had grown in the year since Harry had first seen it. It had to be at least three times its original size.
"Grandmother said I would need it this year with the new subject I am taking."
"Oh which subject is that?" Harry asked wondering how the plant that had squirted him in Stinksap could ever be useful.
"Medical Magic" Neville replied the excitement evident in his voice.
"I'm doing that as well" Harry looked out the window momentarily and noticed the scenery was already being to change to open fields. They amused themselves until the food trolley came by playing exploding snap while Neville regaled Harry with stories of his family's way of expressing pride over Neville's participation at the Ministry of Magic. At the arrival of the food trolley Harry realised that he was extremely hungry as he had only had a piece of toast for breakfast. Harry brought some pumpkin pastries, piles of sweets and cold pumpkin juice. Harry was through his second pastry when Hermione, Ginny and Ron returned from the Prefect carriage. Ron delved into the pile of sweets next to Harry upon entry into their cabin, pulled out two chocolate frogs and commenced eating them immediately. Hermione and Ginny took seats on either side of Luna and Ron took the seat between Harry and Neville which had been the card table earlier.
"How was the Prefect meeting?" Harry asked the new arrivals.
"Borphing" Ron replied with a mouthful of chocolate frog. Hermione rolled her eyes in what Harry assumed was disgusted.
"Actually" Hermione stressed looking sideways meaningfully at Ron then looked back to Harry "they told use that the sixth year Prefects are to act as support for the fifth year Prefects. The fifth year Prefects have to do the train patrols and guide the first years while we are there to back them up if they have any problems."
"Yeh, less work for us at least" Ron piped in leaning back in his chair.
"Like you ever did much work!" Ginny snorted. Ron retorted with a rude gesture at his sister.
"Ron!" Hermione said shocked. Ginny, Harry, Neville and Luna laughed.
"So, Harry, who did you leave your new pet with?" Hermione asked changing the subject.
"No one"
"Then where is it?" Hermione looked around the compartment.
"In my pocket" Harry replied. "Sherman" Harry called his pet and his inside pocket moved. Sherman's head popped out of Harry's cloak. Ron, Ginny and Neville all moved back into their seats as far as they could go. Luna, however, had lowered her magazine and moved in for a closer look.
"Is that what I think it is?" Luna asked curiously.
"What do you think it is?" Harry returned slightly surprised by Luna's sudden interest in the conversation.
"A Commutatus Viper!"
"Yes" Harry was stunned. "How did you know?"
"I always wanted one. They are meant to be great protectors for their owners."
"How could this little snake protect anyone?" Hermione asked leaning closer to Harry to get a better look.
"Well, not in his current state, but he changes if you get him mad as.." Luna's unfinished sentence was left hanging as the door to the compartment suddenly opened. Harry's hand immediately to his pocket to hide Sherman but Sherman seemed to have sensed the new arrivals coming and was already back inside before Harry's hand reached him.
"If you get him mad, what?" Draco Malfoy had just entered the compartment flanked by his two favourite cronies, Crabbe and Goyle, and he had apparently caught the last part of Luna's sentence. Harry hoped rather then believed that that was all he had heard.
"Potter, you have sunk to a new low. First you make friends with weasel and mudblood, now Loony and Longbottom? Could you surround yourself with any more losers" Malfoy sneered shaking his head, his side kicks laughed.Ron's face reddened and both he and Harry rose from their seats. Neville also rose but due to the tight conditions of the compartment this meant he was toe to toe with Crabbe.
"I don't recall inviting you to join us Malfoy" Harry replied as his hand moved towards his wand hold preparing himself for any attack.
"Just thought I would stop by"
"Get out" Hermione said
"Make me mudblood" Malfoy taunted.
"We will if we have to" To everyone's surprise it came from Neville. Malfoy looked around and laughed at Neville's threat.
"Do you really think you could beat me Longbottom?" Malfoy said, each word dripping with contempt.
"I know I could!" Harry said trying to refocus Malfoy's attention on himself drawing it away from Neville. He decided he had had enough of Malfoy. Harry pulled out his wand and took a menacing step towards Malfoy, Ron following closely. Malfoy seemed to assess his situation. The odds of six on three were not in Malfoys' favour and he seemed to realise it. With his usual look of distain Malfoy turned and ushered his body guards out of the compartment. Having to have the last word Malfoy turned before walking out the door of the compartment.
"One day we shall see Potter!" Malfoy's departing wording hung in the air.
"I hate him" Hermione said as she stood up and closed the door forcefully. "Do you think he meant that as a threat Harry?" Hermione turned to face Harry with a worried expression.
"It wouldn't be the first one he has made" Harry replied retaking his seat. Hermione's face showed clearly that Harry seemed to be taking this far more casually then he should.
"He's actually threatened you before?" Hermione was shocked "when?"
"After his father was sent to Azkaban he said he was going to make me pay for what I did to his father"
"Aren't you worried?" Hermione asked
"About Malfoy?" Harry replied amused. "He's the least of my worries". Hermione looked like she had more to say on the subject but Ron suddenly came to Harry's rescue.
"What did Luna mean by changes?" For a moment everyone looked at Ron confused.
Luna realised what Ron was talking about first "oh, I meant that when he gets mad he will grow enormous and venomous. Meant to be quite deadly actually."
"I knew it!" Hermione exclaimed. All eyes spun to look at her.
"Knew what?" Harry asked confused.
"I knew that Hagrid would not have given you a harmless pet. Deadly" Hermione seemed almost beside herself.
"Calm down Hermione. As Luna said it's only if he gets mad and not against their owner." Harry stressed the last point trying to relax Hermione. Sherman had never shown Harry any reason for him to feel concerned about his personal safety and Hermione was not going to make him change his opinion of Sherman. Over the summer Sherman had become not only Harry's pet but also his friend. Harry trusted Sherman, 'besides' Harry thought to himself 'I'm not even sure if Sherman can change'. Harry was still not convinced that Sherman actually was a Commutatus Viper. The groups' conversation took a new direction with Ginny asking Luna and Neville about the last part of their holiday break. Harry was grateful for the change in subject though he noticed that Ron was eyeing the pocket of his robes constantly and had moved closer to Neville. The remainder of the journey passed without any further incident and the group settled back into easy conversation about their holidays and their subject choses for the coming school year. Harry was please to find out that Hermione and Ron were also taking Medical Magic, though only Hermione was taking the other course Dumbledore had signed Harry up for, Alchemy. Hermione had decided to only take two new subjects, though she complained that to do so she had to drop History of Magic to have a normal time table. Both Ron and Harry were no longer taking Divination or History of Magic. Harry however had to continue potions.
"Better you then me mate" was Ron's replied when Harry informed him of this fact. "It was one of the happiest moments of my life when I knew I didn't have to sit through another one of Snape's torture sessions."
"Me too" Neville chimed in.
The scenery out side the window changed to forest and as the light faded Harry knew that they were close Hogwarts. It was Hermione who finally suggested that they should get into their robes in preparation for their arrival. The others agreed and got changed. The train began to slow no more then fifteen minutes later as it approached Hogsmeade Station. The usual chaos ensued as the train stoped at the platform and several hundred Hogwarts students disembarked from the train. The group made their way off the train and once down the stairs Harry immediately looked for his biggest friend.
"Firs'-years this way" Hagrid's voice boomed across the platform. Harry waved.
"Hi Hagrid" Harry called over the noise.
"All right you three" Hagrid returned as the first year students gathered around his legs. "See yer in side" with that Hagrid began leading the new scared faced additions to Hogwarts for the journey across the lake. Harry, Hermione, Ron, Neville and Luna made their way to the carriages while Ginny finished up her Prefect duties before joining them. Harry patted the Thestrals while they waited. Once Ginny arrived they piled into an available carriage and Harry watched out the window as it moved towards Hogwarts for his first glimpse of the castle in months. As it came into view Harry felt like he was home. The carriages pulled up at the front steps and the students moved out of the carriages, up the stairs and into the Entrance Hall and waited in front of the doors to the Great Hall. Professor McGonagall stood at the doors waiting for all the students to arrive. Harry noticed Cho standing with her friend Marietta not far away. Cho turned her head slightly and saw him. She waved hello and then started making her way through the crowd towards him. Marietta did not join her. Harry noticed that Marietta no longer wore a Balaklava. When Harry mentioned this to his friends Luna explained.
"Apparently she spent a considerable amount of time at St Mungo's over the break to get rid of it" Harry and Ron both smiled in appreciation.
"How do you know?" Harry asked.
"My uncle works there" Luna shrugged.
"Hi Harry" Cho said as she reached the group.
"Hi Cho" Now that Harry was over his feelings for Cho he found it surprisingly easy to talk to her.
"How was your holiday?"
"Fine yours?"
"Good. Harry I was wondering if you were going to.." But what she was wondering Harry never found out as just then Professor McGonagall announced that students could proceed into the Great Hall as the doors opened. The crowd pushed towards the door and Harry was caught up in the tide. As he got close to the doors he heard Professor McGonagall call him.
"Harry Potter this way please" McGonagall was motioning Harry away from the doors. Harry did as he was requested and notice Hermione and Ron following him. McGonagall noticed the presence of Harry's best friends as they got closer to her.
"Move along Granger, Weasley, I didn't call you. Go into the Great Hall for the feast. Potter will join you shortly." Ron and Hermione looked at Harry who shrugged. Harry had no idea why McGonagall wanted to speak to him. "Now" Professor McGonagall barked. With a last look at Harry Ron and Hermione joined the crowd heading into the hall. Professor McGonagall led Harry up the marble stair case towards her office. Harry's mind raced over the trip to school. He could not think of anything that he could be in trouble for. 'Sure I couldn't be in trouble yet' he thought. They reached McGonagall's office and she opened the door and gestured for Harry to enter. Harry walked in and took a seat at the desk.
"There is no need to look so worried Harry. You are not in trouble" McGonagall said as she took her own seat on the other side of the desk noticing Harry expression. "Professor Dumbledore wanted me to have a quick word with you before classes start to discuss your extended timetable. Do you still have it?"
"Oh, yes I do" Harry reached inside of his robes and pulled the timetable out of the pocket that also housed Sherman. When Harry had changed into his school robes he had transferred Sherman with his time table and wand. Sherman had complained loudly that his new home was uncomfortable and cramped.
"Good. Your evening classes will not begin until the second week to give you sometime to settle back into the school. For your Sunday class you are to go to Hagrid's. Understand?" Harry nodded. "If people ask you why you are doing extra classes you are to tell them that you requested additional studies to help you in becoming an Auror and that I agreed to assist you."
"Yes Professor"
"That includes Ron and Hermione Harry" McGonagall added with a meaningful look at Harry. Harry nodded again.
"On a lighter note I am happy to report that you lifetime quidditch ban has been lifted. You will, of course, need to be back on the team to captain it." McGonagall said with a smile.
It took Harry a moment to realise what the Professor had just said. 'Captain' Harry thought 'me'.
"You want me to captain the Gryffindor team" Harry was stunned. He couldn't believe it. He had dreamed of this but had never expected to actually get it. Harry immediately started to think of all the things he would need to do to get the team ready for the coming competition. 'I will need new chasers' Harry thought 'I will have to have tryouts immediately and practises to get them up to speed.' His mind was racing. He looked down for just a moment to process everything and noticed the timetable that was still in his hand and it struck him. 'When am I going to have the time to do all of this study and fore fill thee duties of team captain.' As painful as it was to accept he knew he could not do both. He raised his head to look at Professor McGonagall.
"Professor, I would be honoured to be the Gryffindor Captain" Harry said slowly not believing himself what he was about to do.
"Excellent" McGonagall said happily.
"But" Harry continued watching McGonagall's face fall slightly "with all of the extra study I don't think I can give the position the time and effort it deserves" he finished heavily.
"Do you still want to be on the team?" McGonagall asked seriously. Harry knew immediately that she wasn't giving him an ultimatum, more just ensuring that if he wasn't captaining the team, that he was at least still willing to be on the team.
"Oh, yes" Harry replied quickly noticing McGonagall relax slightly "I definitely still wish to play."
"Well I guess I will have to rethink my choice" McGonagall looked thoughtful.
"What about Ron?" Harry asked so suddenly that McGonagall jumped.
"Ronald Weasley?" the Professor returned sceptically.
"Yes. He really improved at the end of last season and he was the hero of the final match" Harry said trying to sell McGonagall on his best friend for the position. Though Harry had not been overly impressed with Ron's performances in the matches he had seen Harry had a feeling that given the opportunity Ron could be a really good team captain. Professor McGonagall seemed to be mulling the idea over in her mind.
"I will think about it" McGonagall said in an uncommittal tone.
"Um, Professor" Harry said carefully.
"Yes Harry?"
"If you do decide to go with Ron as team captain, I was wondering if you could not mention that you offered it to me first" McGonagall gave Harry a slightly confused expression.
"Why?"
"I would just prefer he didn't know" Harry thought it best not to explain that in the past Ron had had a tendency, on occasion, to be jealous of Harry and it was important to Harry for Ron to feel like he had earned the captain position and not just had it handed to him.
"If you wish Potter, well, I think that covers everything. Shall we go down to the feast?" Harry nodded suddenly feeling ravenous. Together they left the office and headed down for the start-of-term feast. Upon entering the hall Harry noticed that the food had already arrived at the tables and most students were talking happily amongst themselves while devouring the delicious food in front of them. Harry realised he had missed the sorting ceremony once again. McGonagall proceeded to the teachers table while Harry moved over to the Gryffindor table and took the seat Ron and Hermione had saved him in between them.
"What.. did.. McGonagall.. want?" Ron asked in between bites of his potato.
"Oh, do you both remember me telling you about the carer advise meeting I had last year and I told McGonagall that I wanted to be an Auror and that she and Umbridge got into a big fight" Both Ron and Hermione nodded. "Well McGonagall has lived up to her promise of helping me get there" both Ron and Hermione looked confused by this. "I will be doing extra studies this year to help me prepare for the application process. McGonagall just wanted to give me my timetable" Harry concluded with a shrug trying to sound casual. Hermione's look clearly showed that she was not completely convinced by his story but there seemed to be another dilemma that she was trying to voice.
"Professor McGonagall has organised you extra studies?" Hermione asked sounding affronted.
"Yes, why?" It was Harry's turn to be confused.
"I was not offered extra studies" Harry could not believe it. Hermione was actually offended because he was doing extra work. Ron rolled his eyes.
"Only you would be upset about not being given extra work?" Ron said shaking his head as he went back for seconds. Harry looked around the Great Hall to find away to change the topic of the conversation and his eyes fell on a familiar yet new face at the teachers table. A silver haired wizard who sat talking happily to Dumbledore.
"Who is that new teacher?" Harry asked while he began piling his own plate.
"Ph ew Depense fecher" Ron replied his mouth now full of steak. Hermione shot a disgusted look in Ron's direction and then translated.
"The new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. His names Elphias Dodge"
"Why does he look familiar?" Harry asked. Ron, now having finished his enormous mouthful replied.
"His in the Order of.."
"Quiet!" Hermione snapped looking around quickly to see if anyone had been listening. Ron blushed slightly realising he had said too much.
"Oh yes" Harry suddenly remembered where he had seen the elderly wizard before "he was part of the guard that collected me from the Dursley's before the Ministry hearing last year."
"I don't know how Dumbledore convinced him to do the job. I didn't think anyone wanted to do it considering the jobs cursed?" Harry had to admit that Ron had a point. 'Wasn't that why we ended up with Umbridge in the first place' Harry thought 'because no one else wanted to do it?'.
"It's not cursed Ron" Hermione said
"Oh yeh, tell that to Quirrell, Lockhart and Mad-eye!" Ron countered.Hermione gave Ron a nasty look but let the matter drop. The meal was as wonderful as Harry remembered it and as the final leftovers of the various deserts magically disappeared Harry found himself feeling content and sleepy. Dumbledore rosed at the teachers table and the Great Hall fell silent. Dumbledore welcomed the new students to Hogwarts and reminded all students of the dangers of the forbidden forest. Students were also advised of the new items that had made it to Filch's list of banned items, many of which were of Fred and George's creation. On completion of Dumbledore's announcement students, except for Ron, Harry and Hermione began leaving the hall for their common rooms. The trio made their way to the teachers table to say a quick hello to Hagrid before also heading to the Gryffindor common room.
"Hi Hagrid" They said in unison as they approached him.
"Good ta see yer three again. All still doin' Care of Magical Creatures this year" Hagrid asked and they all nodded to indicate that they were.
"I got some great creatures for yer this year. A real treat" Hagrid's face was full of excitement about the coming years' classes and the trio tried desperately to return the excitement though, through past experience, they were weary of the creatures Hagrid was enthusiastic about.
"How yer going with yer new pet?" Hagrid asked Harry with a conspiratorial wink.
"Good. He's a great pet" Harry replied taking the hint not to mention what type of animal Sherman was.
"Well I will see yer three in class"
"Bye Hagrid" the trio said as they made their way to the doors behind the last of the exiting students and along the familiar path to the common room. When they approached the door Harry realised that he didn't know the new password. When he mentioned this Hermione told him that they were given it on the train.
"Canary Creams" Hermione said as she reached the portrait of the fat lady. The portrait sung open and the porthole to the common room was revealed. Harry and Ron said good night to Hermione at the bottom of the stairs that lead to the dorm rooms. When they reached their door Harry noted the sign on the door had been changed to sixth years. Seamus, Neville and Dean were already getting into their pyjamas when Ron and Harry arrived. Harry's trunk was at the base of his bed as always and after quickly changing, putting Sherman on the end of his bed and saying good night to his room mates, Harry climbed into his four poster bed and fell to sleep as soon as his head hit the pillow