Harry looked up from the couch to see a barn owl swooping into the room. Dobby had just opened the window to let it in. In it's beak was the familiar looking envelope from Hogwarts. Harry walked to his dresser and picked up some loose change to pay the owl. He tucked it into his pouch and then took his letter from the owl.
He sat back down on the couch asked Dobby for a cup of tea and opened up his letter.
Dear Mr. Potter:
We are please to send you the results of your Ordinary Wizarding Levels that you have undertaken this past year. The results are as follows:
TransfigurationTheory E Practical O Overall O
Potions Theory E Practical E Overall E
Defense Against the Dark Arts Theory O Practical O Overall O
Divination Theory O Overall O
Charms Theory O Practical O Overall O
Care of Magical Creatures Theory O Practical O Overall O
Herbology Theory E Practical O Overall O
Astronomy Theory E Practical A Overall E
History of Magic Theory O Overall O
Total 7 O's, 2 E's
Grading:
Passing:Failing:
O - OutstandingP - Poor
E - Exceeds ExpectationsD – Dreadful
A - AcceptableT - Troll
Congratulations on your performance! We will meet to discuss your entry into N.E.W.T level classes on your first full day of classes. I will send you an owl with the time shortly.
We, that is to say, The Headmaster and I, feel that because of your work with the D.A. Club and the leadership qualities that you have shown in the past year, that you are the most qualified selection for head boy. Please find enclosed your Head boy badge as well as a list of your duties.
As Harry read this, a heavy shiny object fell from the envelope. He gaped at it. They must be nutters, he thought. Leadership qualities? He'd gotten Sirius killed not to mention just about getting 5 of his closest friends nearly killed. Dumbledore and McGonagall must have finally gone off their rocker. Anyways, Head boys were only chosen from seventh years. There must have been a mistake. He would ask Professor McGonagall about this when he saw her about his N.E.W.T level classes and inform her of the mistake. Harry read on.
Also, as a special request from Professor Dumbledore, he would like for you to continue with your Defense Against the Dark Arts Club with full school sanctions. We are sure you know the reason for this. In the upcoming dark days, it is important for the students to be prepared. We both felt that you are the best person leading this club as you have done such an incredible job in your first year of teaching it. All teachers will be available for resources and research should you need their help.
As well, we wish to inform you that your lifelong Quidditch ban has been lifted. You will be able to rejoin your teammates for practices when they start. I look forward to watching you play and keeping the cup on my mantle.
Sincerely yours.
Professor M. McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft
Harry was stunned.
He couldn't believe they had given him Head boy status. He decided to write to Hermione and Ron and let them have a good laugh.
Hi Ron:
Just thought I'd write to you and let you know that Dumbledore and McGonagall have finally cracked up. They actually made me Head Boy. I'm sure its all a mistake though. I mean, I just about got my friends killed and their rambling on about leadership qualities. Nutters I tell you. I got my O.W.L.s as well 7 O's, 2 E's. Not bad considering.
Oh and another thing. Dobby has decided to stay with me for the summer. He thinks I need to be looked after. I can't imagine why. Hermione will have a fit I'm sure.
My lifetime ban has formally been lifted for Quidditch (yahhhhhh!) I can't wait to fly on my firebolt again. I'm so rusty; I'd probably fall off it.
Any news on when I get to leave this place?
Harry
Hermione:
Before Ron has a chance to tell you, Dobby is staying the summer to take care of me. And before you get all huffy, I am paying him.
Do you know what Dumbledore and McGonagall have done? They made me Head boy. Crazy isn't it? It's all a big mistake though. I'm sure they will figure that out and it will be fixed before the start of term. I got my Owl's as well. 8 O.W.L.s and 7 E's on my O.W.L.s'. Not bad really. I think the sacking of Hagrid during the Astronomy exam and the vision I had during History of magic theory was my downfall.
I can play Quidditch again. My ban has been lifted.
Hermione, in all the reading that you do, have you ever come across anything describing the Veil of Whispers that we saw at the Ministry of Magic? I want to know more about it.
When do I get out of here? I'm doing much better now that Dobby is here, but I need out.
Harry
He attached the letters to Hedwig and sent her on her way.
"Ok Dobby, I'm ready for lunch now"
The next few days blended into one another. Harry received letters back from Hermione and Ron.
Harry:That's great news on your O.W.L.s' I got 7 O.W.L.s' as well. I'll let Hermione tell you what she got although I'm sure you won't be surprised. I'm glad you'll be able to play Quidditch again. We need you on the team! Bloody hell, you are the Team!
Of all the ruddy luck! You have Dobby coming to stay with you. Your own House elf! What does Hermione have to say about that?
I wouldn't sell yourself short about being Head boy. I think you'll be great for the job. Your not Percy or anything, but that's even better cause you'll be more fair that he was.
I can't tell you when you'll be getting out of there. All I can say is to be prepared and packed when someone comes for you.
See ya mate!
Ron.
Harry:
Ohhhh Head boy! I'm so proud of you. The youngest one ever, according to Hogwarts a History. You'll be a fantastic one. And 7 O.W.L.s', that's great. I got 11 O.W.L.s'. My parents were thrilled to say the least.
I've been looking in my books for references to the Veil, but haven't found much. I'll keep looking though. They might have something back at Hogwarts, maybe in the Restricted Section.
I think it's great that Dobby is taking care of you (although I am relieved to hear you are paying him). It seems to be working; as this is the longest letter you've sent me all summer. I'll be seeing you real soon Harry, so keep you spirits up.
Hermione
Dobby's care was helping Harry. His appetite had returned to normal and then some. He spent a lot of time going for walks or using the exercise equipment in his bathroom. He was putting back on the weight slowly as well as a bit of muscle. The colour was coming back to his cheeks.
He helped out around the Dursleys whenever he was told and as a result, they left him to his own devices. He had tea with Mrs. Figg in the mornings or lounged in his bedroom doing his summer homework and the Dursleys never bothered him. When he was feeling down, he'd soak in the tub or do laps and that would help.
He still had trouble sleeping at night and his scar had started to tingle again leaving him to believe that Voldemort was beginning to plot something new. Over all though, Harry was beginning to mend and he was glad of that.
About 3 days before his Birthday, Harry was sitting in his room doing and essay for potions when he heard the doorbell ring. Uncle Vernon went to answer it. He could hear him thumping across the hallway. A few minutes later, Uncle Vernon was calling him downstairs.
"Hello Harry" came a familiar voice as he reached the bottom stair. "How are you?"
Author's Note
Ok, I may not have the O.W.L's thing down right. I researched as much as I could, and this was the best I could come up with.
Carla: Don't worry about the Dursleys; I'm not making them nicer. In the chapter after this you will see them as they are.
Nandp: Yes, Dobby will be in the next few chapters:)
Thanks for the reviews everyone!