Open Wounds (Sirius Black)

Journey Home

The warmth of August had gradually given way to the coolness of September, signaling the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year at Hogwarts. The air was crisp in the early mornings, and the leaves on the trees started to adopt the vibrant hues of autumn. The transition of seasons painted the landscape with shades of orange, yellow, and red, making it all the more apparent that it was time for change.

September 1st had arrived, and the iconic Hogwarts Express was set to depart from Platform 9¾ at precisely eleven o'clock. Students and their families bustled about, making their way to King's Cross Station in London, where they would board the magical train. Trunks were packed, owls hooted in cages, and the excitement of another year at the renowned wizarding school was palpable.

The sun cast long shadows on the station's platform as families gathered to say their goodbyes. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with hugs, laughter, and the promise of reuniting during the holidays. The sense of unity among the students, both returning and new, was undeniable as they shared their eagerness for the year ahead and the adventures that awaited them at Hogwarts.

I tightly embraced my parents, gratitude and nostalgia in my heart. Their warm words of encouragement and well-wishes filled my ears as I prepared to embark on another journey at Hogwarts. With one final heartfelt hug, I turned and made my way towards the magnificent scarlet steam engine that was the Hogwarts Express.

The Hogwarts Express was an enchanting sight to behold. Its gleaming red carriages lined up along Platform 9¾, billowing plumes of white steam from the locomotive's mighty engine. The train exuded a sense of magic and excitement as it stood there, ready to transport hundreds of students to the castle that had become our second home.

The train's exterior was adorned with polished brass fixtures and windows that seemed to twinkle with a life of their own. Above each compartment door, an enchanting lamplight glowed softly, casting an inviting golden hue on the platform. The Hogwarts Express was an icon, a symbol of our magical world, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation as I climbed aboard, my adventure about to begin once more.

The corridors of the Hogwarts Express were buzzing with excitement as students and their friends reconnected after the summer break. I walked along, glancing into various compartments, searching for any sign of Lily's vibrant red hair. It was always a bit challenging to navigate the crowded train, but the anticipation of finding her kept me going.

As I passed through one compartment, I caught a glimpse of someone who looked familiar. It was Lily, sitting with a group of her friends and laughing. I knocked on the compartment door, and her emerald green eyes met mine as she turned to see who was there.

"Odessa!" Lily exclaimed, her smile brightening. She quickly moved over to make room for me beside her, and I took a seat, feeling relieved that I had found her.

We exchanged stories of our summer adventures and discussed our upcoming year at Hogwarts. The journey was filled with laughter, chatter, and a sense of camaraderie that only a close friend could provide. As the train continued to clickety-clack along the tracks, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments and the friendships that had made Hogwarts so special.

"It's been such a cruel summer, Lils," I played with my hands remember the events of Markus Manor

As the Hogwarts Express pulled into the station at Hogsmeade, the sight of Hogwarts Castle came into view. The majestic structure stood proudly on a hill, its towering turrets and ancient stone walls bathed in the soft, golden light of the late afternoon. The lake shimmered in the distance, and the Forbidden Forest loomed nearby, adding an air of mystery to the scenery.

The familiar sound of the train's brakes hissing and the excited chatter of students filled the air as we disembarked onto the platform. The platform was bustling with life, as returning students and first-years bustled about, eager to begin the new school year.