Ancient Echoes - Harry Potter Male Reader Insert

Chapter 28 - Whispers and Laughter

A/N: Hey everyone, I'm sorry for the delay in getting these chapters out. I wasn't feeling well for a bit, but I'm back now and have two chapters ready for you as a thank you for your patience. Your support means the world to me, and I hope you enjoy the new chapters!

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After several more days of relaxation, it was finally time for them to return to school. The anticipation was palpable, as the familiar routine of boarding the Hogwarts Express signaled the end of summer and the beginning of another year filled with magic, mystery, and—no doubt—plenty of adventure.

The hustle and bustle of Platform 9¾ was as chaotic as ever. Steam from the scarlet engine billowed up into the bright September sky, mingling with the chatter of excited students and the occasional hoot of an owl from within a cage. The platform was alive with the vibrant energy of young witches and wizards, each eager to reunite with friends and share tales of their summer holidays.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Y/n moved through the throng, pulling their heavy trunks and trying not to trip over stray cats, darting pets, or each other. Their search for an empty compartment on the Hogwarts Express became more urgent as the crowd around them thickened.

"Better get a move on," Ron muttered, his eyes darting towards the increasingly crowded train. "All the good seats will be taken."

Hermione, ever practical, nodded in agreement. "We should find one quickly, especially before Fred and George take over half a carriage with their latest 'experiments.' Merlin knows what they've cooked up this time."

Y/n, walking beside them with an amused grin, chimed in, "You know, if we do end up next to them, we could always set up a counter-prank. Something subtle, like turning their hair green or making them float whenever they sit down. Could be fun."

Hermione rolled her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "Let's just find a quiet compartment, please."

Ron grinned at Y/n, clearly enjoying the idea. "You know, I think you're onto something. Maybe we should—"

"Or maybe we shouldn't," Hermione interrupted, her tone making it clear that she wasn't keen on adding to the chaos Fred and George were sure to bring. Still, the thought of a prank war between the twins and Y/n was almost enough to make her reconsider.

As they walked down the narrow corridor, peeking into compartments, they noticed that most were already filled with students excitedly catching up after the summer holidays. The noise level was rising with every step they took.

As they made their way down the aisle, Harry sighed, his expression a mix of guilt and frustration. "I didn't mean to blow her up. I just... lost control."

Ron, always ready to lighten the mood, grinned. "Brilliant!"

Hermione, predictably, shook her head. "Honestly, Ron, it's not funny. Harry's lucky he wasn't expelled."

Ron, undeterred, shrugged. "I still think it was brilliant."

Y/n smirked, glancing at Harry. "Next time, maybe try to do it indoors. You know, keep the casualties to a minimum—like only the furniture." He grinned, making Harry crack a small smile despite his inner turmoil.

Finally, they came across a compartment that seemed almost too good to be true—empty except for a single occupant. In the corner, a man in shabby robes was slumped against the window, fast asleep. His unkempt appearance and the gentle rise and fall of his chest suggested he was deeply lost in whatever dreamworld he inhabited.

The trio eyed him warily.

"Looks like there's room in here," Harry said, sliding the door open quietly.