Time Spent In Eternal Endings

Death Changes People

Hermione started getting ready for the first day of school.

This was her last year at Hogwarts. A chance to re-do everything she had lost. Except Harry was gone and she wasn't on good terms with Ron.

So this year was definitely off to a different start. She had everything she needed though. She had great friends. She had a house, food, and clothes, and she was able to laugh again. That was something to look forward to.

She should be thankful and not so focused on the negative. There were people who lost so much more than she did. There were people who died. She got to attend balls, dance, laugh, get drunk off of butterbeer, hug people, and go to a school that still stood after the war.

She shouldn't complain, she knows she shouldn't. Guilt just seemed to consume her so much lately.

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Hermione let her hair down and put on her uniform. She didn't know where she'd sit on the train or who'd sit with her because there wasn't a golden trio anymore.

She and Pansy went to the train station. They didn't bid any farewells because they lived together and their parents were out of the picture so there was nobody who would be missing them.

"Well this is sappy as shit," said Pansy as she stood at her side watching everyone say goodbye to family.

"Couldn't agree more." Hermione and Pansy watched for a moment just to watch the families.

They didn't say anything as they watched, but Hermione knew they were both wondering what it would be like if they still had their parents right now. She knew they both felt a sense of happiness just watching other people who still had their families even though it was accompanied by grief.

They boarded the train a few moments later.

"I'll meet you in the great hall for the stupid sorting ceremony. You know I really don't understand why we have to go. I mean we've already been sorted so why do we need to watch other people get sorted," Pansy complained.

"I'm sure if it was just the first years, then it'd create a harmful environment for them because they'd have to walk back to dorms by themselves. Not to mention meeting older kids who intimidate them outside of the great hall right after they've been sorted, which could lead to lots of yelling."

"Right, I forgot you actually answer questions. Anyways, see you later."

Hermione and Pansy waved goodbye as they walked to opposite sides of the train. Hermione found an empty booth and took a seat. Seconds later Neville and the Patil twins joined her.

"Oi Hermione! Long time no see!" Neville boomed through the booth. A bright smile was placed on his face.

"Hey, Neville! And it's good to see you too Parvati and Patil." Hermione sent a friendly smile.

It felt like ages since she'd seen everyone. Neville definitely grew and he... found himself. He definitely didn't look like the third-year Neville she once knew. That Neville was cutely plump and innocent with ruffled hair. This Neville was fit and lean. He was still innocent but he carried himself more maturely.

The Patil twins were still just as beautiful as they'd always been.

"So what have you guys been up to all summer?" Asked Patil.