CHAPTER 15: THE SORTING HAT'S SONG
The journey to the station was relatively quiet, save for Mr. Weasley's enthusiastic inquiries about the vehicle's mechanics and Mad-Eye's vigilant surveillance of the driver, who endured their presence with stoic patience.
Arriving at the station, they unloaded their luggage and made their way inside, drawing curious glances from passersby, who were taken aback by their unconventional attire. Mr. Weasley recognized the taxi driver who had been reassigned, offering a friendly greeting as they shook hands.
"I'm glad to see you again; if I had seen you earlier, I would have traveled with you in your Flying Ford Anglia," Mr. Weasley remarked with a chuckle, prompting a wary glance from the driver's colleague, who silently conceded to his choice.
Loading their belongings onto trolleys, they navigated through the bustling station, attracting attention with their unique appearance and manner of travel. As they made their way to the platform, anticipation bubbled within them, mingled with a sense of excitement for the adventures that awaited them at Hogwarts.
Approaching the wall that concealed platforms 9 and 10, they braced themselves before crossing the barrier into the hidden realm of platform 9¾. As they emerged on the other side, their eyes were greeted by the magnificent sight of the scarlet steam engine that awaited them, ready to transport them to their final year at Hogwarts. Despite the bustling atmosphere, Harry couldn't help but notice the noticeable absence of students compared to previous years. It was understandable, given the recent events and the attack on Diagon Alley; many families had opted to keep their children at home. However, amidst the sparse crowd, they spotted familiar faces, exchanging greetings and catching up with acquaintances like Dean Thomas, who inquired about the future of Dumbledore's Army.
"Truth is, Dean, I don't think so, but stay tuned because we'll do something. If you still have those fake Galleons, keep them handy," Harry replied, offering a glimmer of hope to the boy before he rejoined his family. Observing the platform, Harry noted the presence of several Aurors stationed strategically, a precautionary measure by the Ministry to safeguard the students and prevent any potential attacks, reminiscent of the vigilance following the Diagon Alley incident. Some carried small trunks, indicating their roles as guards for the upcoming school year.
As the train sounded its departure whistle, they bid farewell to their families, Hermione having done so earlier due to her parents' inability to cross the magical barrier. Finding an empty compartment, they settled in, stowing away their luggage before waving a final goodbye through the window as the train began its journey to Hogwarts.
Tonks then surprised Harry by transforming into a brunette girl around their age, sporting the same sky-blue eyes he admired.
"Tonks, what are you doing?" Harry asked, puzzled by her sudden transformation.
"If someone comes in and sees us hugging, they won't think I'm a teacher but another student," Tonks explained with a mischievous smile.
"But McGonagall told you that..." Harry started, only to be interrupted by Tonks.
"Hermione, she said at Hogwarts, but she didn't say anything about the train," Tonks clarified, her smile widening as she enjoyed the little moment of mischief.
As Luna and Neville joined them on the journey, the group expanded, with the new couple settling comfortably among the others. They were intrigued by the presence of Andromeda Evans, the mysterious brunette who seemed to effortlessly blend in with their group, particularly with Harry. Eventually, Andromeda grew weary of the curious glances and whispers surrounding her, prompting her to reveal her relationship with Harry. The revelation surprised their friends, but they quickly offered their congratulations and seamlessly integrated her into their conversation.
As members of Dumbledore's Army approached to greet the group, the question on everyone's mind lingered: would their special classes continue?
"I don't think we'll be able to meet again this year," Harry admitted, his tone tinged with regret. "But rest assured, I'll need your support in the fight against He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. However, it won't be direct—I can't risk putting any of you in danger."
Despite their disappointment, the members of Dumbledore's Army understood Harry's reasoning, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Unable to pry any further information from him, they dispersed, their thoughts lingering on the uncertain future.
Meanwhile, the presence of Andromeda Evans continued to spark curiosity among the group. Unfamiliar with her and unable to place her within the Hogwarts community, they couldn't help but wonder about her connection to Harry and the Golden Trio.
As the trolley laden with sweets passed by, Harry and Tonks found themselves alone for a moment. Seizing the opportunity, they indulged in a variety of treats, from chocolate frogs to pumpkin pasties, and every-flavor beans. Their lighthearted banter turned to jest when Harry ended up with a garlic-flavored bean, much to Tonks' amusement, who jokingly refused to kiss him.
Meanwhile, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny departed for the prefects' carriage, leaving the two couples to enjoy their solitude. Harry was surprised to witness Neville planting a passionate kiss on Luna, followed by a similar display of affection toward Tonks—or should he say, Andromeda?
Their tender moment was abruptly interrupted by the entrance of unwanted guests. Pansy Parkinson and Blaise Zabini barged in, accompanied by Theodore Nott and Tracey Davis. The Slytherins wasted no time in taunting Tonks, demanding to know which house she belonged to.
Unfazed by their intrusion, Tonks simply laughed, causing the Slytherins to bristle with indignation. Drawing their wands, they threatened Harry and his companions. But before tensions could escalate, Tonks intervened, advising against retaliation. Her calm demeanor and rationality diffused the tension, prompting even the Slytherins to reconsider their hostile stance.
Realizing the folly of their actions, the Slytherins backed down, recognizing the futility of starting a confrontation on a train filled with Aurors. Tonks' astute observation and composed demeanor had a sobering effect on the situation, ultimately averting a potentially dangerous encounter.
"It appears there are no Aurors around at the moment, which is unfortunate for you," Parkinson taunted, a sly grin playing on her lips.
"Are you certain? I overheard the leader instructing all the Aurors to be present, with the option to Disapparate or use other concealment methods like Polyjuice Potion," Luna countered, her tone tinged with mischief. "And who's to say one of your bodyguards isn't an Auror waiting for the opportune moment to strike?"
The Slytherins exchanged wary glances, uncertainty flickering in their eyes. While they couldn't confirm the girl's claims, they couldn't entirely dismiss them either. In the end, they opted for the simplest solution: Disapparating away.
"Time will reveal all things. We'll meet again at Hogwarts, and mark my words, I'll discern your house, though Gryffindor wouldn't surprise me," Luna declared with a knowing smile as they vanished.
Tonks, now alone with Luna, sighed softly. "Forgive me for not disclosing earlier, but I won't be attending Hogwarts this term."
Parkinson halted in her tracks, surprise evident on her face. "I'm visiting a relative in Hogsmeade before returning to Beauxbatons. Farewell!" With a wave, she disappeared.
Luna slammed the carriage door in frustration, feeling the sting of disappointment. There was nothing she could do; Parkinson would slip from her grasp.
Once the Slytherins had vanished, Luna's companions erupted into laughter, applauding her audacious move.
"That was brilliant! Shut her up like no one else could. If she were at Hogwarts, she'd make your life a living nightmare," Neville praised, grinning at Luna.
"The Aurors' strategy was impeccable," Hermione added, nodding in agreement. "And Luna, I believe you. There's an Auror hidden in each carriage, ready to intervene if necessary."
Surprised, Neville glanced around the compartment, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Tonks exchanged a knowing look with Harry, and they both chuckled softly, recognizing the Auror hidden among them.
Ten minutes later, Hermione, Ron, and Ginny joined them in the compartment. Neville wasted no time inquiring about the presence of Aurors.
"It's true, there are Aurors stationed in the carriages. They're responsible for the outer security of Hogwarts," Ron confirmed, nodding at Neville. "It was one of the details discussed during the Prefects' meeting."
Realizing they were nearing their destination, they began to change into their Hogwarts robes. The girls waited outside while the boys took their turn.
"I don't understand why it takes them so long to put on a robe, as if it's some complex task!" Ron muttered, earning a warning glance from Harry. "If Hermione hears you, you're in trouble."
"Women have a different perspective. Every detail matters to them; everything must be just right," Harry explained, casting a meaningful look at Ron. The redhead seemed puzzled, prompting Harry to continue. "You'll come to appreciate it eventually, noticing and valuing those details. It's all part of being in a relationship, caring about each other's preferences and quirks."
"I doubt I'll ever understand all of that," Ron half-joked. Harry placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
"You're already making progress, Ron. It's a journey of learning and understanding, for both of us. For Hermione, I'm willing to make the effort, and I know you will too," Harry assured him. He glanced at the closed compartment door. "And you'll find yourself on the same path, if you want to keep Hermione, that is."
As the girls opened the door, Tonks peeked inside, a curious expression on her face.
"Did we take too long?" Harry approached and planted a tender kiss on her lips.
"Not at all, but you know every second away from you feels like an eternity. Though the wait was definitely worth it," Tonks replied, a playful smile dancing on her lips as she wrapped her arms around Harry's neck, returning his kiss. It was evident she hadn't bothered to change her attire.
Neville and Ron watched the affectionate exchange with a mixture of surprise and admiration.
"How does he know so much about girls?" Neville asked, his eyebrows raised in bewilderment.
"I'll definitely find out," Ron declared determinedly, his gaze fixed on Harry.
Meanwhile, Ron stepped into the compartment as the girls finished stowing away their belongings. He took a moment to follow Harry's example, assessing Hermione's appearance from head to toe.
"There's something different about you, and whatever it is, I like it," he remarked with a goofy grin, his usual bluntness softened by a newfound tenderness.
Hermione's cheeks flushed with color at Ron's unexpected compliment. His romantic and expressive gesture caught her off guard, but she couldn't deny the warmth it stirred within her.
Leaning in, Ron gently cupped Hermione's face in his hands and planted a surprised but delighted kiss on her lips. Meanwhile, Neville mustered up the courage to do the same with Luna, though her radish earrings and cork necklace made the task a bit more challenging. Despite his awkwardness, Neville couldn't help but notice the subtle blush on Luna's cheeks, accentuating her ethereal beauty.
"Um, you look lovely with the makeup and the radishes!" Neville blurted out, immediately realizing his mistake as his cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
While Hermione and Ron exchanged amused glances, Luna, true to her unique nature, simply smiled and graciously thanked Neville for the compliment, unfazed by his awkwardness.
As the train whistle announced their imminent arrival at the station, Tonks bid farewell to the boys, explaining that she would continue on to Hogsmeade. After a round of hugs and kisses, the boys gathered their trunks and prepared to disembark. Harry lingered behind, stealing a few more passionate kisses with Tonks.
"Is this goodbye until the holidays?" Tonks asked, a hint of sadness in her voice.
"Don't be ridiculous, you'll see me every day," Harry reassured her, pulling her close. "Well, maybe not as much as I'd like," he added with a playful grin.
After one last lingering kiss, Harry reluctantly left the compartment, closing the door behind him. Tonks took a moment to compose herself before transforming back into her true form. Andromeda Evans vanished, replaced once again by Nymphadora Tonks, the newly appointed Transfiguration teacher. Sitting patiently, she waited for the platform to clear before making her exit.
Harry and his friends disembarked from the train, their excitement palpable as they stepped onto the platform. Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the chatter, echoing across the platform.
"FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS OVER HERE!" Hagrid's booming voice rang out, his massive form towering above the crowd as he waved his lantern to guide the incoming first-years.
As they approached the half-giant, they noticed a group of apprehensive first-year students gathered around him, their faces betraying a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"Harry, kids, how's it going?" Hagrid greeted them warmly as they drew near.
"Good, thank you. And you?" Harry replied, returning the greeting.
Hagrid glanced around before leaning in closer to them. "How about paying me a visit one afternoon? There are a couple of things I'd like to discuss with you," he said, his tone carrying a hint of concern.
Curious about Hagrid's cryptic invitation, Harry and his friends exchanged puzzled glances but agreed to visit him soon.
"I have to take these kids to the castle; you'd better hurry," Hagrid said, gesturing towards the waiting carriages.
After bidding farewell to Hagrid, they hurried to the carriages, finding seats among the last ones available. Just as they were about to depart, a familiar face appeared.
"Mind if I join you?" Tonks exclaimed, feigning surprise as she approached them.
"Tonks! What are you doing here?" Harry exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement at seeing his friend.
"I'm the new Transfiguration teacher," Tonks announced with a grin, eliciting cheers from Ginny and Luna, who were thrilled by the prospect of being taught by a Metamorphmagus.
"Fantastic! A Metamorphmagus teaching us Transfiguration!" Ginny exclaimed, squeezing Luna's hand in excitement.
Ron, however, couldn't help but sigh as he watched his sister's excitement, resigned to the fact that he'd have to endure her fawning over their new teacher.
Amidst laughter and jokes, they finally arrived at Hogwarts Castle. After bidding farewell to Tonks, they made their way straight to the Great Hall, eager to begin another year at Hogwarts.
As Harry and his friends made their way to the Gryffindor table, they couldn't help but notice the hushed whispers and curious glances directed their way. Some greeted them openly, while others observed with keen interest. Across the room, the Slytherin table didn't miss a single detail of the unfolding scene.
As everyone settled into their seats, the doors of the Great Hall closed, signaling the start of the evening's proceedings. Several seats remained empty at the teachers' table, with Minerva McGonagall presiding as the new headmistress.
From the side, Professor Filius Flitwick, the Charms professor and head of Ravenclaw, made his entrance, carrying the old, tattered Sorting Hat in his hands. He conjured a stool and placed the hat upon it before exiting the room.
"The new Deputy Headmaster is Flitwick," the students whispered among themselves, noting the change in leadership.
With the hat in place, Mr. Filch opened the door, allowing the new Deputy Headmaster to enter, followed by a group of apprehensive first-year students. Their eyes darted around the room with wide-eyed curiosity as they approached the Sorting Hat.
As the procession reached the hat, it seemed to come to life, and the hall fell silent as it began its age-old song:
"Don't judge me by my appearance as your destiny I decide, The founders created me as part of their own side. From Gryffindor, courage has always thrived, Never backing down or leaving friends aside. Ravenclaw, by right, excelled in wisdom's gaze, To know and to learn will always be your craze. Hufflepuff, where every toiler found their due, You sit with them if Hufflepuff is you. In cunning and determination, Slytherin shone bright, In achieving their goal, none could match their might. Place me upon your head, and soon you'll see, In which of the four houses your dreams will be. Dire times are upon us, losses we lament as much, When a friend we lose, nothing can fill that touch. Remember within these walls, it'll always be, Life and death, hand in hand, for all to see. It's known in our world, without a doubt, That as someone departs, another will sprout. This truth is eternal, soon you'll be sure, Who'll take their place will be our world's cure."
The song echoed through the Great Hall, its solemn words resonating with the students and faculty alike, reminding them of the ever-present balance between life and death within the magical world.
As the Sorting Hat's song came to an end, the Great Hall erupted into enthusiastic applause. Though shorter than in previous years, the song had left its usual impact, leaving students pondering its hidden meanings. They knew better than to dismiss the hat's words as mere whimsy; there was always wisdom to be found in its cryptic verses.
The Headmistress gestured for silence, and Professor Flitwick stepped forward with a parchment in hand.
"When I call your name, come up to the stool and put on the hat. Let's begin. Emily Bermart!"
A timid brunette girl emerged from the group of first-years, her heart pounding with nervous anticipation. With shaky hands, she approached the stool and gingerly placed the hat upon her head.
"Hufflepuff!" the hat proclaimed, eliciting a relieved smile from Emily as she made her way to her new house table.
The sorting ceremony continued, each student discovering their fate as they donned the Sorting Hat. In the end, there were 5 new members in Hufflepuff, 6 in Gryffindor, 5 in Ravenclaw, and 4 in Slytherin. Interestingly, all those sorted into Slytherin happened to have siblings in the same house, including Sibila Parkinson, the sister of Pansy.
Once the sorting was complete, Headmistress McGonagall rose to address the students, her demeanor somber yet resolute.
"This marks my first opening speech of the school year. I wish the circumstances were different," she began, pausing briefly to collect her thoughts. "We have several new professors joining us this year. For Transfiguration, we welcome Miss Nymphadora Tonks."
Tonks entered the Great Hall through the side door, her vibrant hair changing colors in a display of her Metamorphmagus abilities, much to the delight of the students.
"As you've noticed, Miss Tonks is a Metamorphmagus," McGonagall continued. "Until now, you've had an Animagus as a teacher, and I trust you've made good use of my teachings. I expect the same from our new professor."
"And for the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, we are fortunate to once again have the services of Professor Remus Lupin."
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