harco

1

Harry, Ron, and Hermione were on their way to Hogwarts for their eighth year. Harry wasn’t thrilled about the idea; in fact, he hated the thought of returning to the same place, where recent memories haunted him. He was desperately trying to forget everything related to those events.

In contrast, Hermione was excited, having heard that they would be learning the latest spells used in the final battle. She was eager to absorb any new knowledge to satisfy her curiosity.

As for Ron, he didn't care much and was completely indifferent to the whole matter.

A voice over the loudspeakers interrupted their thoughts, announcing that the train was half an hour away from their destination. In less than half an hour, the train reached its familiar stop. Everyone who had been in the war was stunned by how quickly things had returned to normal, and how the school had been restored so swiftly.

They knew they had to change into their house robes, while the first-year students, who had just joined, were directed to the Great Hall to undergo the Sorting Ceremony with the Sorting Hat.

The trio met up again after a short while, and Harry couldn't help but let go of all his tension and anger, finding himself enjoying his friends' company. He eventually forgot the whole ordeal and even seemed happier than Hermione.

As they entered the Great Hall, everyone began to clap and cheer for him, the savior. Even the first-year students, young and old alike, had heard about the war and the famous Harry Potter, the "savior."

Professor McGonagall entered the hall to quiet the crowd and stepped forward to the center, addressing everyone: "Welcome, everyone. May I have your attention, please, so that we can sort the new students into their houses, after which you can enjoy your feast."

Her words were met with a silence that filled the hall as she conjured a chair with the Sorting Hat on it, and then with a wave of her wand, she brought forth a scroll that turned out to contain the names of the new arrivals.

After all the new students were sorted into their houses, a familiar name was called, which caused the hall to fall into a hushed silence, with some students whispering angrily among themselves.

"Draco Malfoy," the voice called. Draco stepped forward from among the Slytherin students, looking as usual, aloof and composed.

Ron muttered sarcastically, "Look at him, still acting all superior, doesn't even seem to care." Hermione nodded in agreement, "Yes, he doesn’t even look remorseful."

It turned out Draco was there to deliver an apology speech. Ron joked, "Look who's apologizing... I must be dreaming!" though his tone was light, there was disbelief in his voice.

Draco began his speech, apologizing for his actions and those of his family, though his expression remained cold, devoid of any real remorse.

Someone from the back interrupted with, "At least show some respect to those who lost family members because of you and your family." This was followed by more harsh comments, even from the Slytherins.

"Silence! I said silence!" McGonagall's uncharacteristically stern voice cut through the noise as she advanced, ignoring the remarks. "Well done, Draco. We accept your apology, and welcome back to Hogwarts."

There was little response except for McGonagall's faint applause, and Draco returned to his seat in silence. Harry noticed that Draco sat away from the rest of his house, an almost noticeable gap between them, with only Blaise Zabini sitting by his side, seemingly taking on the role of Draco’s defender against any comments or glares.