Uncovered Secrets

Chapter 5

As they approached the portrait of the Fat Lady, Hermione felt a renewed sense of belonging. Hogwarts was not just a school; it was a home, a sanctuary where she could learn and grow, surrounded by friends like Luna who made every challenge a bit more bearable.

"Password?" the Fat Lady asked, her voice echoing slightly in the quiet corridor.

"Fortuna Major," Hermione replied, and the portrait swung open to admit her.

Inside, the Gryffindor common room was bustling with activity. Some students were playing wizard chess, others were deep in conversation, and a group by the fireplace was laughing over a game of Exploding Snap. The room was filled with the comforting sounds of familiarity and camaraderie.

Hermione turned to Luna, who would need to head to the Ravenclaw Tower. "I wish you could stay longer," Hermione said, a hint of sadness in her voice.

Luna smiled, her eyes twinkling with understanding. "I'll take the long way around, maybe chat with a few portraits. It's always an adventure going back to Ravenclaw Tower."

They hugged briefly, a warm, comforting embrace that spoke volumes of their friendship. "Thank you for tonight, Luna. It was really special," Hermione said, her voice muffled slightly.

"Anytime, Hermione," Luna replied, pulling back with a grin. "Remember, the castle is full of secrets. Maybe I'll discover a new passageway!"

With a playful wave, Luna turned and walked back down the corridor, her figure gradually disappearing around a bend. Hermione watched her go, feeling a mix of happiness for the time spent together and a slight melancholy at parting ways.

As Luna made her way to the Ravenclaw common room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of adventure bubbling within her. The castle at night was a different world, one that whispered of ancient mysteries and hidden corners. She greeted the portraits she passed, each offering a nod or a word of advice.

Finally, she reached the entrance to the Ravenclaw common room, where she was greeted by the riddle of the eagle knocker. "I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?"

 After solving the riddle with her usual creative flair, she entered the blue and bronze decorated room, filled with the soft sounds of her housemates' quiet study and whispered conversations. If only Hermione was in Ravenclaw.