Hermione Granger stood at Platform 9¾ among the bustling crowd of students and parents. It was the first of September, and the Hogwarts Express, the iconic scarlet steam engine, billowed white clouds of steam. Hermione, adorned in her neatly pressed Hogwarts robes, clutched her trunk handle tightly, a mixture of sadness and hesitation settling in her stomach. She stared anxiously at her classmates as they eagerly ran toward the train.
As she made her way through the throng of eager students and well-wishing families, Hermione couldn't help but feel a familiar surge of nostalgia. It was her seventh year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, a place that had become a second home to her. The past six years had been filled with magical adventures, steadfast friendships, and countless hours spent in the hallowed halls of learning.
This year was different, though. The war was over, and the wizarding world was slowly healing from the scars left by Lord Voldemort. Hogwarts, too, bore the marks of the battle, but the resilience of the magical community had prevailed. The school was being restored to its former glory and young witches and wizards couldn't wait to return.
As Hermione approached the train, the familiar sight of the Hogwarts Express stirred a wave of excitement within her. The train was a symbol of new beginnings and the promise of magical education. Hermione boarded the train, contemplating what her final year would be. She wondered what challenges she would face and what friends she would see.
Prior to reaching King's Cross Station, Hermione bid her two closest companions, Harry Potter and Ron Weasley, farewell with heartfelt wishes for success in their budding careers as Aurors. The trio, inseparable throughout their Hogwarts years, faced a parting of ways this time. In the aftermath of the Wizarding War, Kingsley Shacklebolt, the newly appointed Minister for Magic, extended a unique opportunity to both Harry and Ron. By recruiting them into the wizarding governing body, he bypassed the usual requirement of passing their N.E.W.T.s. Embracing them in a tearful goodbye, Hermione promised to correspond with them at the earliest opportunity. The platform blurred with a mix of emotions as she watched her friends embark on a new chapter of their lives, their destinies entwined with the responsibilities of safeguarding the wizarding world.
Now that Hermione was on the train, she joyfully found a compartment with her friend Ginny Weasley. She settled in, her mind already buzzing with thoughts of the upcoming school year. The compartments were adorned with the nostalgic scent of magic-infused leather, and the rhythmic chugging of the train beneath her served as a comforting lullaby. Hermione opened a worn copy of "Hogwarts: A History" and lost herself in its pages, eager to immerse herself in the world of wizarding lore once more.
As the train pulled away from the platform, leaving London behind, Hermione couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought her to this moment. From the Muggle world to the magical one, from a timid first-year to a formidable witch, her time at Hogwarts had shaped her in ways she never could have imagined. With a determined gleam in her eyes, she looked out of the window at the passing landscape, ready to face whatever challenges awaited her in her seventh and final year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
As the hours slowly ticked by, Hermione kept herself busy chatting with Ginny and absorbing every word from her favorite book "Hogwarts: A History." As the Hogwarts Express came to a gradual stop at Hogsmeade Station, a sense of excitement filled her stomach. She couldn't wait to continue her journey of learning. She wanted to learn anything she could from her professors and not returning to Hogwarts just would not do.
The crowded train began to fill with excited voices and the opening of compartment doors. Hermione and Ginny disembarked with a sense of purpose. Though the platform was bustling with students and the air was filled with excited chatter, Hermione's attention was drawn to the line of carriages awaiting the students outside the station. They approached the carriages, aware that only those who had witnessed death could see and ride the mysterious thestrals that pulled them. Having experienced the tragic events of the wizarding war, Hermione and Ginny were now able to perceive the winged, skeletal creatures that others deemed invisible. They climbed into a carriage and felt the unsettling sensation of the carriage lifting off the ground. The thestrals pulled the carriage through the darkening grounds, their wings beating silently against the night sky. Hermione's gaze was fixed on the illuminated towers of Hogwarts in the distance, and as the majestic castle came into view, her excitement grew.
The thestrals gently guided the carriage to the ground, settling in front of the majestic castle nestled amidst towering hills and dense forests. Despite bearing a few cracks in its stone exterior from the War, the castle retained its imposing presence, its turrets and towers reaching skyward. The four distinctive towers proudly stood, symbolizing the four houses of Hogwarts.
Stepping out of the carriage, Hermione and Ginny joined the flow of students making their way toward the colossal castle. An enchanted oak front door greeted them, leading to the grand entrance hall. The students, one by one, entered the Great Hall, where a magical atmosphere awaited. The ceiling, enchanted to mimic the outdoor sky, added a captivating touch, portraying a pitch-black night adorned with sparkling stars.
Inside the hall, four long tables represented the Hogwarts houses, stretching the length of the room. Parallel to these tables, a raised platform at the far end hosted the faculty. High-backed chairs for the professors formed a semicircle, providing a clear view of students during meals and events.
Overhead, floating candles bathed the hall in warm, flickering light. Enormous windows adorned the walls, allowing natural light to filter in during the day and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding grounds. Elaborate stone carvings and tapestries depicting magical scenes adorned the walls, narrating the rich history of the wizarding world.
Hermione followed her Gryffindor peers to their designated table, taking her seat and allowing her eyes to wander freely, relishing the comforting sensation of being "home" once more. Observing the tables filling up with both familiar and unfamiliar faces, her gaze then shifted toward the Head Table, curiosity piqued as she sought to discover which professors would guide her through the upcoming year.
Professor Flitwick occupied the end of the table, his face beaming with delight as he interacted with his Ravenclaw students. Grateful to be back teaching Charms after a challenging year under Headmaster Snape's authority, he wore a wide grin while carefully observing his students. Hermione's gaze shifted to the next figure at the table, identifying Pomona Sprout, the Head of Hufflepuff House and Professor of Herbology. Draped in earth-covered wizarding robes and sporting a patched, battered hat atop her gray, wavy hair, Professor Sprout animatedly conversed with Professor Flitwick, her eyes scanning the hall of students.
Hermione's exploration of the faculty continued, and her attention turned to Professor Trelawney. Adorned with various bangles and rings that glittered in the candlelight, Trelawney's hands shook slightly as she gripped her teacup—suspected by Hermione to contain warm tea of some kind. Alongside Trelawney sat her friend Rubeus Hagrid, and a warm smile passed between them as their eyes met in the crowded hall. Hermione looked forward to catching up with Hagrid over tea, appreciating his continued role in teaching Care for Magical Creatures and his infectious passion for magical creatures.
Observing the head table, Hermione noted unfamiliar faces before her heart skipped a beat. Cloaked in billowing black robes, with greasy tendrils of hair and a dark expression, Severus Snape, whom she thought lost, sat broodingly at the other end of the table. An audible gasp escaped her lips, prompting her to quickly avert her gaze, pretending to inspect her robes to avoid catching Snape's attention.
A whirlwind of thoughts and memories flooded Hermione's mind. She hadn't anticipated Snape's return to teaching after surviving Nagini's attack during the war. Despite admiring his resilience, she couldn't help but anticipate the challenges of facing seventh-year potions under his tutelage. Lost in her contemplation, Hermione was brought back to the present by Headmistress McGonagall, who led the new first years down the aisle.
Hermione observed with curiosity as the new young witches and wizards filed into the Great Hall. The air buzzed with their excited whispers as they marveled at the enchanted ceiling and the animated pictures lining the walls—a scene that brought back memories of her first year at Hogwarts. The group came to a halt at the Head Table, where Headmistress McGonagall initiated the Sorting Hat ceremony, calling each student one by one to determine their respective houses.
Amidst the sorting process, Hermione found her gaze involuntarily drawn back to Professor Snape, who remained seated at the end of the table with a brooding expression. He observed his students with a grimace etched on his pale face. Hermione's eyes lingered on him a moment too long, and she realized he had caught her staring. Mortified, she swiftly dropped her gaze to the table, hoping her unintentional scrutiny had gone unnoticed. As the Sorting Hat Ceremony concluded, Headmistress McGonagall stepped up to the podium to address the gathered students.
"I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude and hope, for we have emerged from the shadows of a dark and challenging period in the history of our beloved Hogwarts. The echoes of the Wizarding War have subsided, and the light of a new era shines upon us. Together, as a united and resilient community, we have faced adversity and triumphed over darkness. Today, I extend my warmest welcome to each and every one of you as we embark on a journey of healing, rebuilding, and renewal.
Our Hogwarts, a place that has weathered storms and witnessed the strength of magic and unity, stands tall once again. The scars may linger, but they serve as a testament to the bravery and unwavering spirit that resides within these walls. As Headmistress, I am immensely proud of the courage displayed by our students, the dedication of our faculty, and the indomitable spirit of our entire magical community.
Let us not forget the sacrifices made, the friendships forged in the crucible of adversity, and the lessons learned in the face of darkness. Hogwarts has always been a sanctuary for those seeking knowledge, friendship, and the magical arts. Now, more than ever, we must embrace the values that define us – unity, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge.
In the coming months and years, we will work together to restore and enhance the magical tapestry that is Hogwarts. The classrooms will echo with laughter, the Great Hall will resound with camaraderie, and the Quidditch pitch will witness the thrill of competition once more. Let us cherish and protect this haven of magic, ensuring that it remains a beacon of light and wisdom for generations to come.
As we move forward, let us celebrate the triumph of good over evil, of unity over division. Hogwarts is not just a school; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring magic that binds us all. Together, let us create a future filled with promise, where the lessons of the past guide us toward a brighter and more compassionate world. Welcome back, dear students, and faculty. Welcome to a new chapter in the storied history of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."
As her speech came to an end, every student and faculty member got up on their feet and began a round of applause. Hugs were shared between friends and a sense of hope and excitement filled the castle walls. Hogwarts was their home, and they were ready to continue their educational journey.
Everyone took their seats and a bountiful feast appeared on the table. Enormous platters laden with a sumptuous array of magical dishes. From roast meats to savory pies, from mountains of vegetables to cascading desserts, the variety seems endless. Sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air as the students began to pile their plates high with food.
As Hermione savored the delectable dishes before her, engaging in amiable conversation with both familiar and newfound friends, a tinge of nostalgia and longing crept into her thoughts. The absence of Harry and Ron by her side marked a significant change in her Hogwarts experience, making this year notably different. Determined to share the events of her first day, she resolved to pen a letter to them later that evening.
As the conclusion of the Welcoming Feast neared, Hermione made her way toward the Great Hall's exit. Headmistress McGonagall called out her name, causing her to turn with a warm smile. "Yes, Headmistress?" She responded, her fellow students filing out of the Great Hall.
"I was hoping to catch you before you headed to Gryffindor Tower. Given that this is your final year, I've appointed you as Head Girl. Your belongings have already been moved to The Heads Common Room. I know it's short notice, but I couldn't think of anyone better for the job," explained Headmistress McGonagall.
Pleasantly surprised by the unexpected honor, Hermione's desire to become Head Girl, stemming from her readings in "Hogwarts: A History," was finally realized. "Of course, Headmistress. I accept your proposal as Head Girl."
Headmistress McGonagall smiled fondly at the young witch before her expression shifted to one of seriousness. "Before you go, there's something else you should know." Hermione's unease grew as her Headmistress continued, "I hope this doesn't become an issue, but I think you might want to hear all the details before you so readily accept."
Hermione, anticipating news that could dampen her excitement, encouraged her to continue. The revelation that Draco Malfoy had been chosen as Head Boy surprised her. Despite their tumultuous history, McGonagall explained that he was not safe in Slytherin Tower.
Her professor's words left Hermione visibly unsettled. Sharing a common room with someone who had been a source of torment for the past seven years was a daunting prospect. McGonagall, sensing her discomfort, appealed to her compassionate side. "Hermione, I know this is hard, and I know this isn't what you expected, but he needs a friend. He has been shunned from his house, and he has no one. Please give him a chance."
Sighing, Hermione reluctantly agreed, "Fine, I'll try," bidding her adieu before leaving the Great Hall, her mind wrestling with the unexpected turn of events.