A/N:
Hi guys, here's another update. I am sorry for the late updates was a little busy with my baby. I will try to upload every week from now on, thank you for reading.
Love
Chapter 6
The Defense Against the Dark Arts Teacher
The Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom buzzed with anticipation as Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne settled into their seats. Professor Lockhart, the self-proclaimed expert in magical feats, was about to begin the lesson, and the students were curious to see what he had in store.
Lockhart, with his usual flair for the dramatic, stood at the front of the room, a confident smile on his face. "Good day, students! As we embark on our journey of defense against the dark arts, it's crucial that you get to know your professor. So, let's start with a little pop quiz about yours truly!"
He waved his wand, and parchment and quills appeared in front of each student. Harry raised an eyebrow, amused by Lockhart's self-centered approach. The questions were unexpected, and Harry found himself answering with a touch of sarcasm.
Pop Quiz: Get to Know Your Professor Lockhart
1. What is Professor Lockhart's favorite color?
Shimmering Silver, just like his hair.
2. How many times has Professor Lockhart been awarded Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award?
Enough times to probably need a separate trophy room.
3. What inspired Professor Lockhart to write his best-selling autobiography, "Magical Me"?
The Mirror of Erised showing him with a thousand copies of his own book.
Which dangerous magical creatures has Professor Lockhart personally captured and tamed?
Probably the most dangerous of all - the Nargle.
The classroom erupted in laughter as Lockhart's quiz revealed his inflated sense of self-importance. Hermione, who had always been eager to participate in class, outdid herself by answering each question diligently, much to the amusement of Harry and his friends.
Lockhart collected the quizzes with an expectant smile, his ego clearly boosted by the attention. "Now, let's move on to our lesson!"
With a theatrical wave of his wand, Lockhart conjured a cage filled with Cornish Pixies. The classroom buzzed with laughter as the students watched the mischievous creatures inside.
However, Lockhart's attempts to control the pixies quickly unraveled. Instead of obediently staying in the cage, they swarmed out, causing chaos. Pixies zoomed around the room, upending desks and creating a mess. The laughter turned to panic as students ducked for cover.
Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne exchanged knowing glances. Their previous experiences had taught them to be resourceful in situations like these. As the pixies descended upon their fellow students, the quartet stepped forward with determination.
Together, they cast a series of freezing spells, immobilizing the pixies in mid-air. Their teamwork was precise, and the pixies were suspended in place, their tiny wings beating frantically but achieving nothing.
However, Hermione Granger, who had been diligently taking notes throughout the lesson, was not pleased with their actions. Hermione's voice rose in outrage, her face flushed with anger. "You four! How dare you dishonor Professor Lockhart by freezing the pixies!"You should be ashamed of yourselves! Disrespecting a professor like that! I'm going to report this to Professor Dumbledore!"
Daphne's tone was unyielding as she responded. "Go ahead, Granger. We were just trying to prevent more chaos. Lockhart clearly couldn't handle it. We won't back down from doing what's necessary to ensure the safety of the class."
After the lesson, everyone filed out of the class to The Charms classroom, which buzzed with energy as students eagerly settled into their seats, ready for another lesson under the guidance of Professor Flitwick. Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne were no exception, their wands at the ready as they waited for the class to begin.
The Charms classroom was a place of enchantment and discovery, where the subtleties of spellcasting were explored. Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne took their seats, eagerly awaiting the day's lesson. Professor Flitwick, the tiny and cheerful Charms professor, bustled into the room with an enthusiasm that was infectious.
"Good day, my lovely students!" Flitwick's voice carried a genuine warmth as he greeted the class. "Today, we shall discuss our second-year charms syllabus and perhaps witness some of your remarkable talents."
He began detailing the various spells they would be learning and the practical applications of each. The students listened intently, their wands at the ready for any demonstrations.
"Now, who among you would like to showcase their proficiency in Charms?" Flitwick's eyes twinkled as he scanned the room.
Hermione's hand shot up eagerly, her expression one of determination. However, there was an undercurrent of anger and competitiveness in her demeanor. She had clearly not forgotten any incidents in the Defense Against the Dark Arts class.
Flitwick nodded, granting her the opportunity to demonstrate. "Very well, Miss Granger, please perform the advanced Levitation Charm."
As Hermione stood and aimed her wand, her eyes were locked onto Daphne with an intensity that was hard to ignore. But when she cast the spell, it went awry, sending her textbook flying across the room.
The classroom erupted into a mix of laughter and gasps, but Flitwick's expression remained disappointed. "A bit too much enthusiasm, Miss Granger. Five points from Ravenclaw for your exuberance."
Hermione's face reddened with anger and embarrassment. She glared at Daphne, who sat with her usual calm and poise. However, when Daphne raised her hand, there was an air of confidence about her.
"Professor Flitwick, may I have a try, please?" Daphne's tone was polite, and she received a nod of approval.
With a wave of her wand and a clear incantation, Daphne executed the Levitation Charm flawlessly. The feather-light charm enveloped a big vase, lifting it gently into the air and floating it around the room with grace.
The class watched in awe as Daphne demonstrated perfect control over the spell. Her eyes never left Hermione's, a silent challenge in her gaze.
Flitwick's applause was genuine as he exclaimed, "Wonderful, Miss Greengrass! Ten points to Slytherin for your exceptional charm work."
Harry, Neville, and Tracey shared smiles of pride with Daphne, their camaraderie stronger than ever. Meanwhile, Hermione seethed with frustration, her eyes locked onto Daphne, and sat down with a thunderous expression, her anger directed squarely at Daphne... Hermione's glare was met with indifference from Harry, but Daphne returned it with a steely resolve that made her intentions clear.
As the day's lessons came to an end, Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne made their way to the Great Hall for dinner. The aroma of delicious food wafted through the air as they entered the grand chamber. It was a time to relax and enjoy a meal with their fellow students, even though the tensions of the day still lingered in the background.
They settled into their seats at the Slytherin table, serving themselves from the array of dishes that magically appeared before them. Laughter and chatter filled the hall as students shared stories of their day.
However, their moment of respite was interrupted when Professor Severus Snape, the Potions Master and head of Slytherin House, approached their table. His expression was as severe as ever, and his eyes bore into them."Mr. Potter, Miss Greengrass, Mr. Longbottom, Miss Davis," Snape's voice held a note of seriousness, "I have been instructed to give you this summons from Professor Dumbledore."
Snape handed Harry a sealed parchment bearing Dumbledore's familiar seal. Harry's curiosity piqued, he broke the seal and read the message contained within:
Summoning to the Headmaster's Office
Mr. Potter, Miss Greengrass, Mr. Longbottom, and Miss Davis,
I request your presence in my office after your last class of the day. Your attendance is of utmost importance, and I implore you to attend promptly.
Sincerely,
Albus Dumbledore
Harry exchanged glances with his friends, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension evident in their eyes. After the incident with Lockhart and the recent clash with Hermione, the thought of a summons from Dumbledore was both intriguing and concerning.
Deciding not to keep the matter to himself, Harry turned to Daphne. "I think we should talk to my grandma, about this."
Daphne nodded in agreement, her gaze steady. "Yes, having her perspective on this matter would be wise."
After making their way to their common room, Harry, Daphne, Neville, and Tracey Upon arriving at her office, they found Professor McGonagall hunched over a stack of parchments, her expression one of deep concentration. When they knocked and entered, she looked up, her stern features softening at the sight of her grandson.
"Harry, dear, what brings you here?" she asked, setting aside her work.
Harry approached her desk and handed her the summons from Dumbledore. " Grandma, we received this, and we're not sure what to make of it."
Minerva McGonagall's eyebrows furrowed as she read the message. Her expression darkened with each passing word. When she finished, she looked up at the students with a mix of concern and anger.
"This is highly irregular," she said, her voice tinged with a simmering fury. "Dumbledore should not be summoning students in this manner, especially during dinner."
Neville added, "And he didn't specify why he wants to see us. It's like we're being called for something important, but we have no idea what it is."
Tracey nodded. "We thought it best to consult you before going any further."
Minerva McGonagall leaned back in her chair, her fingers steepled in thought. "You did the right thing, all of you. I will not stand for such disruptions to your education. I shall accompany you to Dumbledore's office and ensure that this matter is resolved promptly." Harry felt a sense of reassurance at her words. "Thank you, Grandma."
With a determined look, she reached for the Floo network, her green eyes flashing with resolve. "Severus Snape, come to my office immediately. We have a situation that requires your presence."
Minerva turned to them, her gaze held a mixture of pride and care as she addressed them. "Remember, you four have faced challenges before and emerged stronger. Whatever the matter may be, face it with the same courage and unity that has carried you this far."
As Harry, Neville, Tracey, Daphne, Professor Snape, and Professor McGonagall stood in front of the door to Professor Dumbledore's office, they exchanged glances filled with a mix of apprehension and determination. The summons from the headmaster had created an air of tension that hung heavily around them.
When Professor Dumbledore's voice called out, "Enter," Professor McGonagall pushed open the door, and they filed into the office, which was dimly lit with the warm glow of countless magical devices and trinkets.
The headmaster, seated behind his desk, looked up at their arrival. His piercing blue eyes held a mixture of curiosity and, perhaps, annoyance. "Ah, you've arrived. Thank you for coming. Severus, Minerva, I would appreciate it if you left us. I have matters to discuss with these students."
Professor McGonagall, was the first to speak, her tone firm. "Albus, as the headmaster, it is your prerogative to summon students, but as Harry is a minor student, there should be his guardian or the head of house with him, and as Sirius and Remus are not here, it is my responsibility as his grandmother, and I must insist on staying here. It is my responsibility to ensure his well-being."
Professor Snape, ever the advocate for his Slytherins, echoed her sentiment. "I concur with Professor McGonagall. These students are under my care as the head of Slytherin House. It is my duty to oversee their welfare, particularly when they are summoned by the headmaster."
Dumbledore's expression darkened, but before he could respond, Snape continued. "You have requested this meeting, Albus, and I assure you that their guardians are here to ensure their well-being."
Dumbledore's eyes flickered with a mix of emotions, his gaze shifting between the determined faces before him. "Very well. In that case, I trust that you both will act in the best interests of the students. Very well," he conceded, though there was a hint of frustration in his voice. "Please, have a seat."
Harry exchanged a glance with his friends, the unease palpable. However, before they could say anything, Harry's gaze shifted to a figure standing beside Dumbledore. Hermione Granger, Her expression was a mixture of indignation and triumph, as if she were basking in the satisfaction of having brought her grievances to the headmaster's attention.
Professor Dumbledore, his usual twinkling eyes now stern, cleared his throat and began addressing the students. "I understand that there have been some... incidents in Professor Lockhart's Defense Against the Dark Arts class today. It has come to my attention that certain actions were taken that, frankly, do not befit the behavior of Hogwarts students."
Neville shifted uncomfortably in his chair, while Harry, Tracey, and Daphne exchanged knowing glances. They were well aware of what their actions were in Professor Lockhart's class, but they believed it had been necessary to prevent a potentially dangerous situation that Lockhart had no means to control, and they didn't understand why the headmaster was clearly angry at them about it.
Dumbledore continued, his tone growing increasingly severe. "While I respect the importance of student vigilance and the protection of one's peers, it is not acceptable to openly defy a professor, no matter the circumstances. We must always approach such matters with respect and decorum."
Hermione, standing beside Dumbledore, nodded vigorously, her face a portrait of self-righteousness.
Harry felt a familiar surge of anger rising within him, but he suppressed it. He knew that arguing with Dumbledore wouldn't get them far.
"We acted to prevent a dangerous situation," Harry said evenly. "Lockhart's actions in class were reckless, and we couldn't just stand by."
Daphne chimed in, her voice calm but resolute. "Professor, with all due respect, we did what we believed was necessary to protect ourselves and our classmates. We did not intend to dishonor a professor."
Professor McGonagall added her voice to the discussion. "Albus, while I understand the need for decorum, the safety of our students must always come first. It's essential that our professors are competent in their subjects, and if their actions put students at risk, it's our duty to address it."
Dumbledore's expression remained stern, "I appreciate your concerns for the safety of our students, but it is not your place to take matters into your own hands. If there are issues with a professor's competence, they should be addressed through the appropriate channels."
Professor Snape's dark eyes flashed with anger. "Headmaster, I must respectfully disagree. The safety of our students should always be our top priority. Professor Lockhart's incompetence put them in jeopardy. Their actions were justified."
Professor McGonagall, her lips pressed into a thin line, added, "Albus, I find it difficult to accept that you would prioritize decorum over the well-being of our students. We have a duty to protect them, even if it means challenging a professor's actions."
Dumbledore maintained his calm demeanor, his gaze unwavering. "I understand your concerns, Severus, Minerva. However, it is crucial that we maintain a sense of order and respect within our school. Disrupting a professor's class is not the way to address grievances."
Hermione, standing beside Dumbledore, seized the opportunity to voice her opinion. "I reported their actions because I believe in upholding the rules and standards of Hogwarts. We cannot have students taking matters into their own hands whenever they disagree with a professor."
Harry felt a surge of frustration but chose to remain composed. He realized that arguing further might only worsen the situation.
"Professor," Harry said firmly, "we have the utmost respect for the rules and standards of Hogwarts. But when Professor Lockhart endangered us and our classmates with his recklessness, we believed we had to act. We didn't want to see anyone hurt."
Daphne nodded in agreement. "We acted out of concern for our fellow students. It was not a decision we took lightly."
Dumbledore's expression remained inscrutable, but his resolve was clear. "I hear your concerns, but I must stress that there are proper channels for addressing such matters. I will deal with this ."
Professor Snape's voice was laced with disbelief. "Headmaster, I must vehemently object. Punishing these students for acting to prevent harm is not only unjust but sends the wrong message about our priorities at Hogwarts."
Professor McGonagall's stern expression grew even more resolute. "Albus, we cannot disregard the safety and well-being of our students. Punishing them for their actions to protect their peers is a grave mistake."
Hermione, standing beside Dumbledore, seemed torn between her loyalty to the headmaster and the mounting opposition in the room.
Harry and his friends exchanged exasperated glances. The headmaster's stubbornness in the face of their justifications was deeply frustrating.
"Professor Dumbledore," Harry said firmly, "we acted out of concern for our fellow students. Punishing us for that would be grossly unfair."
Daphne echoed Harry's sentiments. "Our intentions were noble, Headmaster. We believed we had to act when Professor Lockhart put us all at risk."
Dumbledore remained unmoved, his decision firm. "I understand your concerns, but there are procedures in place for addressing such matters, and according to those you all have to face the punishment."
Professor McGonagall, her patience wearing thin, could no longer contain her frustration. Her voice rose, impassioned with conviction and anger. "Albus Dumbledore, this is a grave miscarriage of justice! Punishing these students for acting in the best interest of their peers is utterly absurd and goes against everything Hogwarts stands for!"
The room held its collective breath, a charged silence enveloping the space. Dumbledore's decision was being challenged with unprecedented fervor.
Professor Snape, recognizing the dire need to diffuse the situation, intervened swiftly. "Headmaster, perhaps it would be wise to consider an impartial judge for this matter. Someone like Professor Flitwick, who can objectively evaluate the situation and make a fair judgment."
Dumbledore, frustrated by the growing opposition, reluctantly nodded in agreement. He approached the fireplace and summoned Professor Flitwick through the Floo Network.
A moment later, Professor Flitwick's face appeared in the flames. "Headmaster Dumbledore, how may I assist you?"
Dumbledore addressed the room, his voice tinged with frustration. "We have a disciplinary matter that requires an impartial assessment. I request your presence in my office."
Professor Flitwick, curious and concerned, nodded and said, " Alright Headmaster, I am coming."
Professor Flitwick arrived in Dumbledore's office, his small frame emanating a sense of determination and fairness. He glanced around, taking in the serious atmosphere.
"Headmaster Dumbledore, how may I assist in this matter?" he inquired respectfully.
Dumbledore gestured to the students. "These students are facing disciplinary action for disrupting Professor Lockhart's class and Miss. Granger has brought it to my attention."
Flitwick turned his attention to Hermione, his disappointment evident. "Miss Granger, as your Head of House, I am disappointed that you did not approach me first to address your concerns. Open communication and trust within our House are vital."
Hermione looked frustrated but didn't protest.
Flitwick then turned to the others. "I'd like to hear from each student involved to understand their perspective on what transpired."
Harry was the first to speak, explaining the events in Professor Lockhart's class and their motives for taking action.
Daphne, Neville, and Tracey followed, each providing a detailed account of the incident and emphasizing their concern for the safety of their classmates.
Flitwick listened attentively, considering every word. After hearing everyone's explanations, he turned to Dumbledore. "Headmaster, it is clear that these students acted out of genuine concern for their fellow students' safety. Their intentions were noble."
Dumbledore's frustration was palpable, but he managed to maintain a composed facade. "While their intentions may have been well-meaning, disrupting a professor's class is a breach of discipline."
Flitwick, however, stood firm. "Given the circumstances, their actions were justified. Safety should always be a priority. I do not believe punishment is warranted in this case."
Dumbledore's frustration simmered as he stood by his decision to assign detention to Harry and his friends. "They must face the consequences of their actions, They will have to serve a detention." he reiterated, unmoved by Flitwick's opinion.
Professor Snape, typically stern and unyielding, couldn't hide his disappointment at this outcome. "Headmaster, I urge you to reconsider. This incident does not warrant detentions."
Professor McGonagall, her patience tested to its limits, added her voice. "Albus, punishing them in this manner is unjust. They acted in the best interest of their fellow students."
Dumbledore's gaze hardened, and he proceeded to assign the detentions. "Their actions disrupted a class and must be addressed accordingly. Professor Lockhart will oversee their detentions."
Hermione, thrilled by the outcome, couldn't help but wear a smug expression. She threw triumphant glances at Harry and his friends. To her, this felt like a personal victory.
Harry and his friends, though frustrated, remained composed.
Dumbledore continued, addressing everyone in the room. "I trust you all will learn from this incident. Safety and order are paramount at Hogwarts, and we must adhere to the rules. Now, you all can leave."
As they left the office, Hermione couldn't resist the urge to gloat. "Well, it seems I'm the best student here since we all have detention now."
Daphne's face remained firm as she rebuked Hermione, "Grades and being the best student are not the same, Granger. Everyone knows who the best here is."
Tracey chimed in, her tone sharp, "Exactly. Let's see you try to get higher marks than us in class."
Hermione's face flushed with frustration. She knew that academically, Harry, Daphne, Neville, and Tracey were formidable opponents.
She raised her voice, attempting to assert her perceived superiority, "Well, academic excellence is only one aspect of being the best—"
But before she could finish, Harry and his friends burst into laughter at her flustered state. Hermione's attempt at asserting her dominance was falling apart.
Neville couldn't contain his amusement. "Maybe being a good sport is another aspect of being the best, Granger."
Daphne nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Humility and grace under pressure are qualities that define true excellence."
Hermione, feeling the weight of their laughter and words, could only fume in silence.
The following day, Harry and his friends gathered in the Great Hall for breakfast. As Harry sat down and began to unfold his napkin, he noticed a silvery owl flying towards him. It gracefully landed before him, extending its leg with a letter attached.
Excitement and curiosity surged through Harry as he took the letter and quickly unrolled it. The words penned in Sirius's handwriting jumped out at him.
Harry, my dear pup/ cub,
Hope this letter finds you in high spirits and good health. Moony and I have been keeping an eye on things back home, and we have some exciting news to share.
First and foremost, the guardians of old magic, Flamel and Aetherion, have found a way to cleanse Mr. Greengrass of the malediction curse that has plagued their family for generations. The cleansing ritual is scheduled to take place during Christmas at the Greengrass estate.
Now at home, things are improving slowly. Remus and I have been ensuring Daphne's family has the support and resources they need. It's a long road to healing, but we're making progress.
Now, about Grimmauld Place—it's slowly being transformed into a more habitable and welcoming environment. With Kreacher's assistance, we managed to clear some of the dark artifacts and open up parts of the house that had been closed for years.
I am looking forward to our meeting during the Christmas holidays. It has been far too long since we've all been together. Stay strong and continue to make us proud.
Keep shining, Harry, and remember, no matter what, your family and friends are here for you.
Bark at you soon Harry,
Padfoot and Monny.
Harry felt a mixture of relief and joy at the news about the Greengrass family. It was a ray of hope, a reminder that the dark shadows of curses and curses could be dispelled with perseverance and unity.
Excitedly, Harry shared the news with his friends at the breakfast table. Daphne's eyes lit up with joy, and she couldn't help but exclaim, "This is wonderful! I received a letter from my family saying the same."
Neville grinned, "Seems like great news is a theme for today!"
Just then, Astoria, Daphne's little sister, came running into the Great Hall, her face beaming with happiness. She rushed over to Harry and hugged him, exclaiming, "Thank you, Harry! I just got a letter from my father about the cleansing ritual!"
Harry chuckled and ruffled Astoria's hair affectionately. "You're welcome, Astoria. I'm glad for you and your family."
In a lighthearted tone, Astoria added, "You know, you're the best. Maybe you should marry me!"
Daphne, trying to hide her jealousy with a playful smile, chimed in, "Oh, Astoria, I think Harry has many admirers. He can't marry all of them!"
Astoria giggled, enjoying the playful banter. "Well, I can always try, can't I?"
Harry laughed, appreciating the cheerful atmosphere. "Let's focus on celebrating the good news today!"
Harry and his friends filed into the dungeons for their second-year Potions class. Snape, as imposing as ever, swept into the room, his black robes billowing behind him.
He began the lesson by outlining the second-year potion syllabus, explaining the importance of each potion they would study. His words were sharp, and his gaze lingered on each student as if daring them to misbehave.
Finally, Snape turned his attention to Ron Weasley, who sat at the back of the class. His voice dripping with sarcasm, Snape asked, "Mr. Weasley, can you tell the class the ingredients for the Wiggenweld Potion?"
Ron hesitated, his brow furrowed and His voice was unsure as he replied, "I'm not sure, Professor."
Snape's lip curled into a sneer. "Clearly, Mr. Weasley, you haven't been paying attention to your studies. Tell me, what is the main ingredient in the Invigoration Draught?"
Ron hesitated, then stammered, "Um, I think... er... ginseng root?"
Snape's lip curled with disdain. "Wrong. Five points from Slytherin."
Ron's face turned red with frustration.
"And what is the correct stirring technique for the Forgetfulness Potion?" Snape directed the next question at him.
Ron stammered again, "Uh, clockwise, twice, then anti-clockwise?"
Snape's sneer deepened. "Incorrect. Another five points from Slytherin."
Ron's face reddened with anger, and he retorted, "You're always like this Snape! You can't stand the fact that a Wealey is in Slytherin!"
Snape's eyes narrowed, his patience worn thin. "Detentions for a week, Mr. Weasley. Tonight, in my office. Be on time, or there will be consequences."
As Snape turned away, Ron muttered under his breath, "Bloody git."
Harry and his friends exchanged glances, concerned about Ron's outburst who seemed extremely angry since the start of the term. Snape's Potions class was challenging enough without incurring the professor's wrath.
As the days before Halloween approached, the atmosphere at Hogwarts buzzed with anticipation and excitement. Students eagerly discussed their costume ideas, planned pranks, and looked forward to the festivities that always accompanied the spooky holiday.
In Lockhart's Defense Against the Dark Arts class, the atmosphere was no different. Lockhart, true to his flamboyant nature, had transformed the classroom into a mock haunted house. Cobwebs hung in the corners, and eerie music played softly in the background.
"Ah, Halloween, my favorite time of the year," Lockhart declared dramatically, surveying his decorated classroom. "Now, who among you can tell me about the most haunted locations in Britain?"
Hermione's hand shot up instantly. Lockhart, always eager for praise, called on her with a wide grin. "Ah, Miss Granger, I knew you'd have an answer. Please, enlighten us."
Hermione stood up, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Well, Professor, according to your book 'Haunted Happenings: A Glimpse into Britain's Most Frightening Locations,' some of the most haunted places include the Shrieking Shack, the Forbidden Forest, and the ghostly carriage of the Hogwarts Express."
Lockhart beamed at her, reveling in the attention. "Excellent, Miss Granger! Ten points to Gryffindor for your extensive knowledge of my literary work."
Harry exchanged amused glances with his friends. Lockhart's vanity never ceased to amuse them.
Later, as they left Lockhart's class, Neville chuckled. "I wonder if he knows we know about his little... embellishments."
Daphne smirked. "It's all a part of the Lockhart charm, I suppose."
The day of Halloween arrived, but for Harry Potter, it was clouded with a deep sense of melancholy. Memories of his parents, particularly his late mother Lily, haunted his thoughts. He missed them immensely, especially during times of celebration.
Daphne noticed Harry's somber mood and, ever the caring friend, tried her best to uplift him. She said, "Harry, we're all here for you. If you need to talk or if there's anything we can do..."
Harry managed a weak smile, appreciating her concern. "Thanks, Daphne. It's just... Halloween is always a tough time for me."
As they made their way to the Great Hall for breakfast, a ghostly figure approached them—it was Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor House ghost.
"Ah, there you are, young Harry Potter," Nick greeted, his translucent form shimmering slightly. "I was hoping I might have the honor of your presence at my Deathday party tonight. As the Lord of Hogwarts, it would be most fitting."
Despite his gloomy mood, Harry considered the invitation. He knew that Nearly Headless Nick's Deathday party was a significant event for him and he remembers Fred and George talking last year about it, and it seemed like a chance to honor a fellow Hogwarts spirit.
Harry looked at his friends and nodded. "Of course, Nick. We'll be there."
Nick seemed delighted and thanked them graciously before drifting away through the castle walls.
After the morning classes, Harry knocked on Professor Snape's door and heard Professor Snape's booming voice saying "Enter."
Harry entered the room, Professor Snape looked at him and asked, " Mr. Potter, What brings you here?"
Harry replied, " Professor Snape, May I please be excused from the afternoon's classes? I have a few guardians coming here."
Professor Snape understood what Hary was going through and said, " Alright, Mr. Potter. But you have to attend the feast as the Headmaster mandated it since last year." Harry thanked Professor Snape and left for his quarters.
With Professor Snape's permission, Harry was excused from his afternoon classes on Halloween. He hurried back to his Lord's Quarters, anticipating the arrival of Sirius, Remus, and Grandma Minerva.
In the warm, cozy room, the fireplace crackled, filling the space with a comforting glow. The air was tinged with sadness as Harry prepared for the visit.
As the afternoon progressed, the trio arrived. Sirius Black, his godfather, exuded a playful yet caring aura. Remus Lupin, the ever-wise and compassionate figure, stood beside him. And Professor Minerva McGonagall, Harry's beloved grandmother, wore a kind smile that spoke volumes.
They settled into the room, and Harry lit a few candles, creating a soothing ambiance. As they sipped tea, they began to share stories—memories of James and Lily Potter.
Sirius, with a twinkle in his eyes, recounted the days at Hogwarts when they had formed the Marauders, causing mischief and laughter wherever they went. He spoke of James' courage and Lily's unwavering love.
Remus added tales of their more serious moments—studying late into the night, their dedication to becoming skilled wizards, and their noble characters. He spoke of Lily's brilliance and James' loyalty.
Professor McGonagall, her voice filled with affection, shared stories of Lily's exceptional magical abilities and James' chivalry. She spoke of how Lily had always stood up for what was right and how James had been a true leader.
Through laughter and tears, they wove a tapestry of memories, painting a vivid picture of two incredible individuals who had been taken from them too soon. It was a therapeutic journey, a bittersweet celebration of the love and the impact James and Lily had left on the world.
As the evening approached, they bid their goodbyes, the room heavy with emotions yet lighter with the sharing of memories. Harry walked them to the door, feeling a mix of sadness and gratitude.