Chapter Fourteen: The First Conclusion
BananaCarrot-Five
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter. Harry Potter is owned by Warner Bros. Entertainment and J.K. Rowling.
A/N: I hope you enjoy the last chapter of Year One! Year Two is in the works! I would like to thank AstralVLS for taking the time to beta this chapter! It was a bumpy ride, but we made it in the end! See you on the other side!
June 2, 1992
Soglio, Switzerland
Eight Hours Prior
In the remote village of Soglio, 1,100 individuals resided at the foot of the Swiss Alps. Unknown to most of the population, a small overgrown hidden trail existed that led to a house embedded in the side of the mountain.
The small house existed only to those who were of Magical descent. To the couple who lived in the house; they had owned it for over 75 years. It was a resort away from the madness and chaos of Paris, France. The couple had been living in Switzerland since the Muggle German Army invaded France in 1914 and hadn't bothered to move back after the War had concluded.
The couple was Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel, the two longest living people ever, clocking in at 664 and 661 respectively. They were enjoying a calm evening in the Swiss Alps when a deafening crack could be heard. There was only one individual who could apparate directly into their front yard that they approved of, and that individual was now dusting himself off: Albus Dumbledore
"Albus, come on in," Perenelle allowed the Hogwarts Headmaster inside and he took a seat opposite Nicholas.
"Nicholas, my friend, the fake Stone will be compromised tonight. I am certain that Voldemort will reach the end but will be unable to get it."
"Excellent. Do you have the real Stone with you?"
"Yes, I do." Albus reached into his robes and pulled out the Philosopher's Stone and handed it to Nicholas. Nicholas then stood up and walked over to a cabinet in which he placed the Stone in.
"Whether or not Quirrell makes it out of the chamber tonight, the tracker will activate for both him and Voldemort. After that, we will know where he is going," Nicholas stated.
"For what it is worth gentleman, even though I disliked this plan from the start, I must say I am impressed." Perenelle stated.
Albus chuckled. "Ten years of planning will do that to you, Madam Flamel."
"Well, the plan has worked flawlessly thus far. However, it must continue. You know the drill, Albus. Store your memories in the vials, I will do the rest. I will contact you when I know what Voldemort is up to," Nicholas instructed.
Albus nodded and spent the next minute pulling out several strands of memory from his head and depositing it into mini vials in a box on the table. Nicholas then obliviated Albus of the conversation, the location of the cottage, and made him believe that the Stone was to be destroyed. When that was completed, he put Albus under the Imperious Curse and sent him back to Hogsmeade Village in Scotland.
June 3, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
3:00 AM
Hermione let out a yelp when she saw Harry's unconscious form. She ran over and kneeled down, hugging his limp form.
"Oh, Professors, please help him! Please!" Hermione asked.
"If you would get off of him, Miss Granger, I can run some diagnostic spells on him," Madam Pomfrey replied in a soft tone.
"Sorry," Hermione said in a quiet voice, pulling herself off Harry and into the arms of Neville who was quivering in his feet as seeing his friend unconscious on the floor. Nearby laid the ashes, stones and old robes that was Professor Quirrell. Harry was covered in dust, and his glasses were broken. His flute, the present from Hagrid, lay cracked from the force of him falling on it. Thankfully, his wand wasn't broken at all.
"Mr. Potter will be fine, Professors," Madam Pomfrey stated, standing up, "But he will be out for a while. Let's get him to the Hospital Wing."
Upon reaching the Hospital Wing, Madam Pomfrey gently placed Harry in a bed. She then rounded on Hermione and Neville.
"You two are also getting checked, just because Mr. Potter here is unconscious doesn't mean that you two are uninjured. I have a half a mind to keep you both here today. As a matter of fact, I will. You two will be confined to the Hospital Wing until I deem you well."
Both kids understood and allowed Madam Pomfrey to treat their minor injuries. They were not allowed out of the Hospital Wing until the end of the day, and even then they had been excused from their classes in the evening. Hermione did not sleep well that night.
\-0-0-/
June 4, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Neville and Hermione made their way to the Great Hall for breakfast. Professor Dumbledore and all the teachers with the lone exception of Quirrell were in attendance. Before breakfast ended, Dumbledore stood up.
"Attention students, as it appears that Professor Quirrell is not here again this morning, I will allow those who have Defense Class today to study in the Great Hall. After all, general exams are next week, and it is good to be prepared! Pip pip!"
Hermione simply flopped her head onto the table and closed her eyes. Neville poked her to wake her, but she gave him a pointed look before sighing.
"Can you at least go to the Dorms and get my stuff, please?"
Neville nodded. "Of course, Hermione." Neville replied, before starting his trek. He was halfway out of the Great Hall when he spotted Parvati Patil.
"Hey, uh, Parvati?" Neville asked. Parvati turned and smiled.
"What's up, Neville?"
"I was wondering if you could get Hermione's school stuff from the dorm, seeing as I can't go up there and get it myself."
Parvati peered into the Great Hall and saw Hermione fast asleep.
"Deal, but you have to tell me what happened yesterday! I didn't see Hermione after midnight when she left to use the bathroom, and none of you guys were in class!" Parvati pleaded.
Neville sighed and agreed. By the time the duo reached the common room, Parvati was shocked.
"So, how did you guys figure out that the Stone was in the third floor?" Parvati asked.
Neville shook his head defiantly. "It's a long story for even that and I don't want to tell it now. Can you get her stuff now, please?"
Parvati looked sad but quickly agreed. Several minutes after Parvati entered the girls' dorm, she came out with her bag and Hermione's, as promised. The duo walked back to the Great Hall in silence, and soon they parted ways.
Neville walked up back to their spot at Gryffindor Table to see that Hermione was fast asleep. Sighing, he poked her several times to wake her up.
"'O away, 'Arry i'm sweeping," Hermione mumbled into her arm.
"Not Harry, it's me, Hermione," Neville stated. He chuckled as her head shot up and became as wide as saucers as she looked at Neville. Then, she let out a deep breath and looked away.
"Sorry," Hermione put her head on her arm and looked the opposite direction.
"I got your stuff, like you asked for," Neville tried. Seeing no response, he tried again. "I'll work on your review with you if you want, to pass the time?"
Hermione groaned in response and pulled her bag towards her, pulling out her review. Neville followed suit and the duo fell into a comfortable silence as they worked. By the time lunch rolled around, both were nearly complete with their reviews. As the students filed in from their classes, Neville spotted his Gran's owl fly in with a letter.
"Oh, look, Gran sent me a letter!" Neville exclaimed, spotting the familiar owl fly down towards him. Hermione hummed in response.
"Is it about Harry?" Hermione asked worriedly as Neville started opening the letter.
"I hope so," came the reply.
Neville opened and read his letter while Hermione fed the owl some bacon strips.
Neville,
First, I would like to say that I am proud of what you have accomplished so far this year. I expect you to do well on your final examinations. As for the matter concerning Harry Potter, I have no issues with him spending the summer with us. Of course, you may tell your Headmaster that I approve of Mr. Potter's summer residency. Owl me if anything changes.
Love,
Your Grandmother
Neville jumped up and grinned at Hermione. "It worked! Harry is staying with me and Gran this summer!"
Hermione's eyes widened and she smiled before hugging Neville. The duo then happily ate their lunch before heading out to their flying class.
\-0-0-/
It was a little while since Potions and both Hermione and Neville were in the common room. Hermione looked anxious, and she scanned the room every so often. When she noticed that Neville was preoccupied reading a book, she quietly slipped out of the common room.
Hermione snuck quietly, avoiding other students and teachers until she reached the Hospital Wing. Entering, she saw that Harry's bed was covered by privacy shields. She walked over to his bed, and silently heartbroken at his unconscious frame, sat on the chair next to his bed and grabbed his hand.
Back in the common room, Neville noticed that he was alone. He figured that Hermione must have gone to sleep and retired to his bed for some much-deserved sleep.
In the Hospital Wing, Madam Pomfrey was making her nightly rounds when she spotted Miss Granger sleeping on the arm of the unconscious Harry Potter. Remembering what they had been through, she summoned a blanket and put it over Hermione to keep her warm.
June 5, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
The next morning, Neville made his way to the common room and was slightly surprised when Hermione didn't show up at their normal time. However, given the past few days, Hermione was probably exhausted. Neville made his way to the Great Hall to eat some breakfast and to wait for Hermione. However, as it neared the end of breakfast, Hermione was nowhere in sight. Neville walked over to Parvati, again, to inquire about Hermione.
"Hey, Parvati, did you see Hermione this morning?" Neville asked.
"No, Nev, she hasn't been in the dorm since yesterday," Parvati replied.
"Thanks, Parvati," Neville replied, before quickly gathering his things and making his way out of the Great Hall. If there was anywhere Hermione would be, it would be the Hospital Wing with Harry. After a lot of running and a lot of stairs, Neville entered the Hospital Wing, and sure enough, Hermione was there, bundled up and sleeping next to Harry's bed.
Neville felt torn, but eventually decided to get Hermione up. After all, classes were still a thing before finals, and he knew how much his friend would want to be in class for everything mentioned and spoken.
June 7, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
It was during lunch when Harry finally awoke. The first thing he noticed was that his glasses were missing. The second thing he noticed was that his body felt as if it were on fire. He managed to grab his glasses from the table beside him, and when his eyesight cleared up relatively, he noticed that there was another table in front of his bed, filled with several boxes of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans, several get-well cards, a few chocolate frogs and some pumpkin pasties.
Thanks to Parvati, the entire school knew that he was in the Hospital Wing for a prolonged amount of time. They were, as Harry would call it-
"Tokens from your admirers," Professor Dumbledore spoke quietly from the doors to the Hospital Wing.
"Professor Dumbledore!" Harry exclaimed, jumping in surprise before rubbing his back and side in pain.
Dumbledore chuckled. "What happened down under that trapdoor last week between you and Professor Quirrell is a complete secret. So, naturally, the whole school knows." He smiled joyfully before sitting down next to him. "Ah, young Harry. It is good to see you up and active. I imagine you have questions."
Harry nodded. "Sir, the Philosopher's Stone? Can you tell me why it was here, in the school?"
Dumbledore nodded. "I understand you are aware of Voldemort, Harry?"
Harry nodded, and Dumbledore continued. "As you are now aware, Voldemort did not perish when he killed your parents and when he tried to kill you. He has since spent years trying to gain a new body. He believed that the Philosopher's Stone would give him that new body. He was right. Using the Philosopher's Stone to make the Elixir of Life would have granted him a new body. But you thwarted his plans."
"But sir, the Philosopher's Stone! I-"
Dumbledore raised his hand. "I will tell you that the Stone is safe in the hands of its rightful owner, and the Flamels have decided to destroy the Stone for the greater good."
Harry gasped. "But sir, without the Stone they can't make the Elixir of Life. They'll die!"
Dumbledore nodded. "They have enough Elixir to set their affairs in order. But yes, they will die."
Harry let the thought sink in for a moment before he asked one other question in his mind. "Sir, why did Professor Quirrell turn to ash when I touched him? I killed him, didn't I?"
Dumbledore looked serene for several seconds before speaking. "Your mother was brave, and she loved you with everything. That love for you translated into a mark, and it is one that you cannot see but it is one that keeps you safe. Yes, you have the physical scar from that night affixed to your forehead, but your mother's love for you is what saved you in the chamber that night. That is why Professor Quirrell could not touch you. Furthermore, you did not kill the man. Unfortunately, he died as soon as Voldemort possessed him."
The Hospital Wing was silent for almost a minute before Harry spoke. "Thank you, sir. Thank you for telling me."
"You are very welcome, Harry. I must go now unless I want to be kicked out by Madam Pomfrey. I will notify Miss Granger and Mr. Longbottom of your status." Dumbledore walked out of the Hospital Wing and not a minute later Madam Pomfrey was running scans all over Harry, until she sighed and determined that he would be fine.
By the end of lunch, Neville and Hermione were in the Hospital Wing with Harry, having quickly made their way up after being informed by Professor Dumbledore. Upon entering, they spotted Harry in his bed, happily munching on some chocolates left over. Hermione sprinted over to him while Neville speedwalked, and as delicately and as fiercely as she could, she wormed her arms around Harry and hugged him tight. Neville joined in too, and the Wing was silent for several seconds. Hermione again ignored Harry's limb's refusal to hug her back and finally released him, Neville following seconds later.
Hermione got right to business, pulling out her review and Neville following suit, also pulling out Harry's in the process. For the next hour, the Trio chatted as they helped each other through the review. Then, the conversation turned to Quidditch.
"So, what happened with the game? From what you guys told me, it was yesterday. Did we win?" Harry asked. Hermione shuffled her feet and Neville rubbed the back of his neck while looking down…
"Merlin's Balls, Robbards! Are you blind? Find the damn Snitch and end the game!" Oliver yelled from his broom.
"Sorry!" Andrew Robbards, Gryffindor's Reserve Seeker, called back. Truthfully, he wasn't as good as the game as he had boasted, and the only time he had been able to see the Snitch was when he had flown against Harry Potter earlier in the school year, and that was because he was following the Firstie.
Cedric Diggory, however, was not playing around. He was a seasoned Seeker for Hufflepuff, having played on the team for the past three years. Andrew knew he stood no chance. He looked over to Lee, who had the score of 180-150, Gryffindor. It was then he realized that Oliver was again screaming at him.
"Robbards! Follow him! He's seen the Snitch! Get it before he does!"
Andrew took off, his Comet Sixty-Four only taking him so far so fast. By the time he had gotten behind Diggory, the Snitch was already proudly in his hand. Madam Hooch called the game, 300-180, Hufflepuff, and Oliver soared right for the locker room, a murderous look on his face.
When Andrew had made it to the locker room, the entire team was present, trying to calm Oliver down. The Twins were cracking jokes, Katie was hugging him tightly, and Angelina and Alicia were rubbing his back, assuring him that it was alright.
Then he saw Andrew.
In three seconds, Oliver went from seated to towering over him with a look of murder in his face. "Give me one reason not to deck you right now!"
"Ollie! Ollie! Calm down!" Katie called out. She rushed forward and got in front of him, her 4'7 frame tiny compared to Oliver's 5'5 frame. "Oliver Elijah Wood!" Katie yelled, "Stop!" She put both her hands in front of her and against his shoulders. Oliver looked down and saw the pointed expression of his girlfriend and stopped, taking several deep breaths before looking back up at Andrew.
"Robbards, get out of my sight," Oliver ordered.
Andrew nodded quickly and scurried off. Oliver sighed and look down. "Sorry, Katie."
Katie huffed. "Don't do it again, alright?" her gaze softened.
"I'll try not to," Oliver replied. The duo hugged and Oliver turned to face the rest of the team. "Sorry guys. We did great out there, Hufflepuff was better. We have next year, though."
"I wish Harry was awake," Alicia sighed, "we would have won this year."
"At least he's still alive, Alicia," Katie retorted.
Alicia looked down. "I know, that's all that matters right now."
Gryffindor had lost the Quidditch Cup, again.
Harry took several deep breaths. "I knew Robbards wasn't good at the game, I never told Oliver."
"Don't worry about it, Harry," Hermione stated, "besides, you're more important."
Harry nodded in appreciation. Hermione raised an eyebrow to Neville as to signal something. Neville nodded quickly and pulled out the letter from his Gran and read it aloud. By the end with a triumphant yell, Harry tossed his arms up and exclaimed "No more Dursleys!" The one-armed hug to each of his friends put smiles on all of their faces. Neville gave Hermione a knowing look. The duo would keep one secret between them, said secret being their limited but known knowledge between Harry and the Dursleys.
By the evening, Madam Pomfrey (who had disliked his sudden movements in his upper body earlier) had fortunately cleared Harry to leave the Hospital Wing, and the trio happily went to dinner. Following dinner in the Common Room, both boys consulted textbooks and mostly Hermione for advice and help. Finally, when it was close to eleven, the trio decided to call it a night. Exams were this week, and they weren't going to be caught unprepared.
June 16, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry, Neville, and Hermione were up and out of bed in the common room, getting ready for breakfast. Hermione appeared sad, however, the boys learned that she was returning that massive book to Madam Pince today. Harry and Neville sighed in relief and accompanied her to the library. When all was said and done, Hermione thanked Madam Pince for letting her take the book out for the year and left with the boys. When they made it to the Great Hall, they spotted stacks of envelopes piled onto the far ends of the House tables. Hermione, naturally curious, walked up to Professor McGonagall to inquire.
"Excuse me, Professor, why are there envelopes on the tables?"
Professor McGonagall smiled at Hermione. "Ah, Miss Granger. These are exam results. Give me a minute," Professor McGonagall plucked out three envelopes from various piles and turned back around, "if you would be so kind as to bring these to Mr. Potter and Mr. Longbottom, I believe you will find your exam results here."
Hermione smiled and thanked the Professor before rejoining her friends and handing them their respective envelope.
"What's this?" Harry asked, holding it in the air.
"Exam results!"
"Thanks!"
The trio sat down and opened up their envelopes to view their results. Hermione had hers opened first and scanned the parchment quickly.
Hermione Jean Granger
First Year, 1991-1992
Exam Results
Astronomy: O
Charms: O
Defense Against the Dark Arts: EE
Herbology: O
History of Magic: EE
Potions: EE
Transfiguration: O
With four Outstandings and three Exceeds Expectations, Hermione was proud of herself, however she was angry at not receiving perfect marks. After all of that studying she did! She glanced over at Harry's and her frown worsened ever so slightly.
Harry James Potter
First Year, 1991 - 1992
Astronomy: A
Charms: O
Defense Against the Dark Arts: O
Herbology: EE
History of Magic: A
Potions: A
Transfiguration: O
Harry cursed silently at himself. He knew he could have done better. Only an Acceptable in Potions? He could understand that; Potions was a nightmare, but also in History of Magic and in Astronomy? Hermione wouldn't be happy. After all, it was his own fault he wasn't able to remember all of the wars and individuals covered in Binns' classes, and the various planet positions and weird stuff from Astronomy. However, being able to walk away from this year with three Outstandings kept him in good spirits for the time being.
Harry turned to Neville. "What did you get, Nev?"
Neville smiled and passed over his results.
Neville Franklin Longbottom
First Year, 1991 – 1992
Astronomy: A
Charms: EE
Defense Against the Dark Arts: EE
Herbology: O
History of Magic: A
Potions: EE
Transfiguration: EE
While Neville only got one Outstanding (and can you be surprised that it was Herbology?), he gained four Exceeds Expectations and two Acceptables from his History of Magic and Astronomy exams.
"These are good scores, Neville! Good job!" Hermione exclaimed. Neville smiled slightly.
"Thanks."
Harry sighed. "Well, at least we all passed." He managed a small smile. Hermione grabbed his arm lightly.
"Oh, don't worry about it, Harry! You did great!"
"Thanks Hermione. Thanks."
June 18, 1992
Headmaster's Office, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry and Neville were currently sitting in plush chairs facing the empty desk of Professor Dumbledore. Professor McGonagall had approached them during breakfast, instructing them to head there once they were finished eating. Hermione had wanted to go as it involved her best friends, but Professor McGonagall was clear when she stated that the meeting was only between Professor Dumbledore, Harry, and Neville.
Several minutes later, Professor Dumbledore enters the room.
"I am glad to see that you have a loyal friend, Miss Granger followed me all the way here before I was able to convince her that you two were not in trouble. She has stated that she will be waiting outside for you later." Harry and Neville chuckled at that. Professor Dumbledore rounded the desk and sat down, glancing at each of the boys.
"Lemon drop?" Dumbledore held the tray of sweets out for the boys to grab. Both accepted, and all three settled into their seats.
"Now several weeks ago, Mr. Longbottom approached me with a unique proposition. He has proposed that Mr. Potter spend the summer with him and his grandmother. Now, Mr. Longbottom, I am aware that you owled her and she replied?"
Neville nodded, smiling slightly.
"It is my understanding that she approves of this. However, for reasons much deeper than I could possibly explain at this point, I must decline."
Both boys' faces fell. Neville spoke softly "Sir, if you knew there were reasons, why did you approve of it in the first place?"
Dumbledore internally sighed. "The matter at that point was not to a point in which I had to interfere, however outstanding circumstances do not allow me to permit Mr. Potter to spend the entire summer with you and your grandmother."
Neville sighed. "I understand sir, I think. Thank you, though."
Dumbledore nodded. "If you would kindly depart us, Mr. Longbottom, I would like to speak to Harry alone."
Neville nodded and wished Harry good luck before walking out. Dumbledore leaned back into his chair.
"Do you remember the conversation we had in the Hospital Wing, Harry?"
"Yes sir."
"Love works in mysterious ways, Harry. One can only hope to understand the tip of its secrets."
Harry was confused. "Sir?"
Dumbledore hummed and continued. "Harry, it is that love which protects you today. It is why Professor Quirrell could not touch you. And it is why I am not allowing you to spend the summer leading up to your birthday with Mr. Longbottom."
Harry was about to ask for the exact reason on why he had to go back to the Dursleys, when he noticed a knowing look from Dumbledore's face.
I am not allowing you to spend the summer leading up to your birthday with Mr. Longbottom.
Harry managed a small smile. "Thank you, sir."
Dumbledore smiled at him. "Enjoy the summer, Harry. We will meet again in September."
\-0-0-/
"Up until your birthday? Are you sure, Harry?" Hermione was questioning Harry as the trio walked back to the common room.
"I'm sure. He gave me this look that told me to look for a deeper meaning or whatever the phrase Professor Sinistra used about the planets."
Neville joined in. "Well, a month with us isn't what we wanted, but if its what Dumbledore will allow, I'm fine with it!"
Harry smiled. Even though he would be in the graces of his relatives, leaving to live with Neville in August would keep him going all summer long.
June 19, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Despite Hermione's continued persuasion, both Harry and Neville (and quite frankly all five boys in the dorm) put off their packing for as long as possible. The thought of leaving Hogwarts for a few months wasn't really sitting well with them, considering how magical and beloved the castle had gotten to be for them.
Dean was going on a fishing expedition with his parents in North America, Ron was going to spend his summer at home, relaxing, sleeping, and eating while constantly annoying his family members about summer homework. Seamus was to be dragged around Belarus all summer, as his mother was a member of an international committee that was debating some new wizarding law legislation. Neville was to spend the summer at his family's manor, immersing himself with the various plants and herbs that had been growing all year. With Harry's book from Christmas, he was excited to jump into learning new stuff about plants.
As for Harry, he was going to be confined to the four walls that was Number Four, Privet Drive. His only scrap of happiness would be the letters sent between himself, Neville, Hermione, and maybe the Weasley Twins and the Chasers. Of course, his twelfth birthday also had surprises coming with it, as he would be able to leave Privet Drive and live with Neville for the remainder of the summer.
In the girls' dorms, all five girls had their belongings packed thanks to a persuasive Hermione Granger. The mood was positive in the dorm, as all five got along with each other better than the boys.
Lavender would be enjoying the summer looking through fashion magazines, and she would be constantly owling Parvati for fashion design tips. Parvati and Padma would join their mother and return to their homeland in India to visit their father for the summer - a touchy subject for the two girls.
Kelly was visiting her cousins in Australia and was gushing to the girls the thrills of an airplane. Lavender and Parvati, having never been on an airplane before, listened with rapt attention. Meanwhile, Rebecca would be spending the summer learning to dance.
As for Hermione, she would be staying at home for most of the summer. Her parents were planning on expanding their dentistry and needed to be in Britain for that. Hermione wasn't concerned, though. She knew that she could owl Harry and Neville whenever she wanted, and she hoped that Harry would be able to use the phone sometimes.
June 20, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
The whole castle was bubbling with energy. The older students had gotten their exam results earlier in the day and many were in animate conversation with various Professors. Many of the students were socializing and exchanging contact information with their friends.
Soon, the evening feast was upon them, and the students became slightly bitter when they realized that Slytherin was going to win the Cup, again. Nevertheless, the feast itself was enjoyable. Towards the end, Professor Dumbledore stood up and the Hall went silent.
"Another year has passed. You have gained a year of knowledge within these walls. To our Seventh Years, we all congratulate you for completing your education. May the world outside these walls treat you fairly and with integrity. To our Fifth Years, while your OWLs might have caused you stress, you fought through it and came out on the other side successful! To our First Years, even though your journey this year is coming to a close, you will have many years ahead to find yourself and to perfect the art within yourselves! Do not worry if you did not become proficient in a subject, or if you miscast a spell, or even if you have lost House Points. I say this to all, making friends and being happy within these walls is the greatest gift this Castle can give you.
Now, onto the Quidditch Cup. I have had the pleasure of watching all four House Teams grow and flourish this year, and I am proud to announce that this year's Quidditch Cup winner is…. Hufflepuff! Congratulations!"
The entire student body cheered at that, even Oliver, who was still fuming over his incompetent alternate seeker, clapped and cheered for Hufflepuff's win.
Dumbledore waited several minutes until the Hall quieted down. "I know there have been many ups and downs this year regarding the House Cup. Let me begin by telling you the current standings. In fourth place, with 501 points, Gryffindor House! In third place, with 553 points, Hufflepuff House! In Second Place, with 612 points, Ravenclaw House! And in first place, with 650 points, Slytherin House!"
The Slytherin students cheered with such ferocity the walls shook. Dumbledore put up his hand and the students quieted instantly. "Yes, well done, Slytherin! However, recent events must be taken into account."
The student body was silent, and every student was looking up at Dumbledore.
"First, to Miss. Hermione Granger, for her excellent usage of intellect when her and her friends were in grave peril, fifty points."
The Hall remained silent as Dumbledore continued speaking.
"To Mr. Neville Longbottom, for showing bravery and loyalty to his friends, fifty points."
Several students started doing math… If Dumbledore continued…
"And lastly, to Mr. Harry Potter, for his extreme courage and dedication towards his friends, I award Gryffindor House fifty points."
The entire Hall erupted. Many students in Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Gryffindor cheered, for it had been years (ten years, to be exact) since any House other than Slytherin won the House Cup. Slytherin students gave Dumbledore a look of hatred and believed that Gryffindor had won either because Dumbledore was biased towards Harry or because Dumbledore was a Gryffindor himself.
That evening, the House Cup was proudly displayed in the Gryffindor common room. Students admired the Cup, which none had ever seen before. It was a glorious cup to call theirs for the year. As the party in Gryffindor tower died down, so did much of the energy throughout. By midnight, the students were back in their dorms, sleeping, getting ready to leave the castle and return home the next day.
June 21, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Finishing their last meal at Hogwarts this year, Harry, Neville, Hermione, and all the other students made their way to the carriages lined up right outside the castle's gates. The First-Years were amazed at the carriages and the older students watched with nostalgia as many of them had that same reaction the first time they saw the carriages. For it was understood quickly that the carriages were pulled by nothing, which in itself was a feat of magic. Harry, Hermione, and Neville quickly boarded one, being joined by Kelly and Lavender before the carriages set off for Hogsmeade. As the castle became smaller as the journey continued, the students looked forward to the next year when they would be returning.
Upon arrival to Hogsmeade Station, the scarlet red Hogwarts Express gleamed brightly, awaiting passengers and cargo to return to London. The quintet of students exited the carriage and split ways to grab compartments. Harry was about to board when he heard his name called out.
"Ey, 'Arry, wait up!" The loud voice of Rubeus Hagrid boomed out over the organized chaos erupting on the platform. Harry turned his head and saw Hagrid waving to him. After telling Hermione and Neville that he would be right back, he hopped off the train and jogged over to Hagrid.
"Hey, Hagrid! Sorry! Almost forgot to say goodbye!" Harry exclaimed.
Hagrid waved his hands. "Don'cha worry about tha', 'Arry. Anyways, I got meself a pres'nt fer' yeh. I hope yeh' like it!" Hagrid proceeded to pull out a slightly battered maroon, red book.
"I found this next ter yer lil' bed when I picked yeh' up after yeh' parents died. I think it's best tha' yer' get it back now, eh?"
Harry smiled before embracing Hagrid. "Thanks, Hagrid. This means so much to me! Thank you!"
Hagrid smiled and shed several tears. "There's lot's a space innit, for yer the make more memories! I hope yeh enjoy it!"
Harry just hugged Hagrid tighter. After a few minutes, Hagrid pulled Harry off of him and motioned for him to get to the train.
"Oh, and 'Arry," Hagrid started as Harry turned away,"if tha' cousin of yers, Dudley, tries tah hurt yeh, you could always… threaten 'im with pig ears to go with tha' tail of 'is. 'E doesn't know yer can't do magic, after all."
Harry grinned at Hagrid's knowing smirk and walked back to the train where he boarded and was called out to by Neville. Entering the compartment, Hermione was already seated and looking wishfully out the window.
"Feels good to be going home, I suppose," Hermione muttered.
"Going home, not really," Harry responded, getting his last lingering look at what of Hogwarts he could still see from the window. The train then jolted into motion and the Hogwarts Express was on its way back towards London.
Kings Cross Station, London
6:30 PM
The Hogwarts Express pulled into Kings Cross on Platform 9 ¾. Harry, Hermione, and Neville were staying on the train, together, for as long as naturally possible. Finally, as the final students were getting off the train, the trio sighed in defeat and hopped off. Hermione turned to Harry and hugged him tight, ignoring his limb's refusal to hug her back with the same ferocity.
"You better write this summer Harry Potter! I don't want to be left in the dark about you!"
Harry finally responded with some sort of squeezing motion with his hands. "I promise I'll write. Hedwig will like the flying."
Hermione broke off the hug and fished in her pockets, finally pulling out a slip of paper. "This is my family's number, Harry. Call once in a while? Even if you write the day before. Please?"
Harry smiled. "For you, anytime." He produced his own paper. "Same thing, though I wouldn't call unless I say something in my letter, Uncle Vernon might not appreciate it."
Hermione nodded in understanding and the duo swapped papers. Neville coughed slightly, inclining towards a much older woman making her way over. Harry's eyes lingered for a few extra seconds. This woman, who was Neville's grandmother, had a unique wardrobe. A dark green dress with a dead vulture as her hat. Neville waved and walked over to her, and the trio walked off in opposite directions.
Harry and Hermione, armed with their belongings, made their way back through the barrier and into the muggle world. "I'll see you again in forty days," Hermione quietly said, before splitting from him. They were now separated, each of them hoping to receive the other's letters soon. As Harry caught a glimpse of Hermione hugging her parents in the distance, he also caught sight of his Uncle Vernon, who was angrily tapping his foot. Forty days. 960 hours until freedom once again.
BC5