Re:HP-A New Life

I am 15 chapters ahead on my patreón, check it out if you are interested.

https://www.patréon.com/emperordragon

_________________________________________

Chapter 55: The End-of-Term Feast and Farewell to Hogwarts

The Great Hall sparkled with enchantments, the enchanted ceiling mirroring a fading twilight sky. The end-of-term feast was well underway, and the tables were piled high with every delicious dish imaginable. Laughter and chatter filled the hall as students celebrated the end of another school year.

Harry sat at the Slytherin table, quietly observing the jubilant atmosphere around him. Despite Slytherin's triumph in securing the Quidditch Cup, there was a palpable tension as the moment for the House Cup announcement drew near.

The golden Quidditch Cup gleamed at the head of the hall, a testament to Slytherin's continued dominance on the pitch. Draco Malfoy sat smugly a few seats down, basking in the victory.

Dumbledore rose from his seat, his long silver beard glinting in the flickering candlelight. The conversations gradually quieted as every eye turned to the headmaster.

"Another year at Hogwarts has come to an end," Dumbledore began, his voice warm and commanding. "Before we bid farewell for the summer, it is time to award the House Cup."

A ripple of excitement swept through the hall.

"In fourth place," Dumbledore announced, "Hufflepuff, with 352 points."

The Hufflepuffs clapped politely, though their disappointment was clear.

"In third place, Ravenclaw, with 398 points."

The Ravenclaws applauded, proud of their efforts.

"In second place, Gryffindor, with 422 points."

The Gryffindor table fell into a stunned silence. Rose's face reflected disappointment, though Hermione whispered something encouraging to her.

"And in first place, Slytherin, with 472 points."

The Slytherin table erupted into cheers, green-and-silver banners glowing triumphantly from the enchanted ceiling. Harry clapped along politely, though his expression remained neutral.

Dumbledore raised a hand, and the hall fell silent once more.

"However," he said, his eyes twinkling mischievously, "recent events must be taken into consideration. I have a few last-minute points to award."

Whispers swept through the hall as students leaned forward eagerly.

"To Rose Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ronald Weasley," Dumbledore announced, "for exceptional bravery, quick thinking, and loyalty in the face of great danger—fifty points."

The Gryffindor table exploded with cheers. Rose, Hermione, and Ron looked stunned, but their faces soon lit up with joy as their housemates congratulated them enthusiastically.

With those fifty points, Gryffindor's hourglass shimmered as rubies filled it to the brim. The final tally now read:

Slytherin: 472 points

Gryffindor: 472 points

The hall was silent, uncertain about what this meant. But Dumbledore's next words broke the tension.

"It seems we have a tie," he announced with a smile. "A most fitting end to an exceptional year."

The hall erupted into applause, and even the Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff tables joined in the celebration. The Slytherins, however, were less enthusiastic. Draco Malfoy scowled, his smug expression replaced by disbelief.

At the Slytherin table, Theodore Nott nudged Harry. "A tie? After six straight years of winning, this is humiliating."

Harry shrugged, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Sometimes it's good to share victories," he said cryptically.

As the celebration continued, Harry's gaze met Dumbledore's across the hall. There was a knowing look in the headmaster's eyes, a silent acknowledgment of the truth they both now shared.

The feast carried on, filled with laughter and joy. Plates refilled themselves, and golden goblets shimmered with pumpkin juice and other treats. Harry allowed himself to relax, content to be among his friends and housemates.

The next morning, students bustled through the castle, dragging their trunks and chatting excitedly as they prepared to board the Hogwarts Express. The air was filled with the scents of summer, and the grounds were lush and green under the bright sun.

Harry stood near the train with Rose, Hermione, and Ron, helping Rose heave her trunk onto the luggage rack. Hedwig's cage was safely tucked under his arm, the snowy owl hooting softly.

"Well, this year wasn't boring, that's for sure," Ron said with a grin, his arm still bandaged from the dragon bite.

"No kidding," Rose added, glancing at Harry with a knowing smile.

Hermione sighed. "I'm just glad we made it through in one piece."

As they boarded the train, Harry found a compartment near the back, and they all settled in. The whistle blew, and the train began to move, the wheels clattering rhythmically against the tracks. Hogwarts slowly disappeared from view, its towers fading into the distance.

Rose leaned back in her seat. "I wonder what next year will bring."

"Hopefully nothing involving dark wizards or dragons," Hermione said dryly.

Ron snorted. "Where's the fun in that?"

Harry chuckled, though his thoughts were already drifting toward the challenges ahead. He knew the peace wouldn't last forever, but for now, he was content to enjoy the ride home with his friends.

The compartment filled with laughter as they shared stories and sweets from the trolley. The bright future lay ahead, and Harry was ready for whatever came next.

As the train sped toward London, Harry gazed out the window, his heart filled with a mixture of hope and determination.