Ancient Echoes - Harry Potter Male Reader Insert

Chapter 31 - Shadowed Trust

A/N: Hey guys, I haven't been in the right headspace lately, just feeling a bit off, but don't worry, I've got more chapters lined up and ready to go. Thanks for sticking around and for all the support—it really helps keep me motivated even when things feel a bit slow. I'm hoping to get back into the groove soon, and I appreciate your patience. Enjoy this chapter, and stay tuned for what's coming next!

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A great buzzing queue of students, third years and older, stretched through the corridor, each clutching a permission form. As they passed by a glowering Filch, the caretaker's eyes narrowed in suspicion, scanning each student for any sign of mischief.

Professor McGonagall stood nearby, her expression stern as she addressed the gathered students.

"Remember!" she called out, her voice sharp and commanding. "These visits to Hogsmeade Village are a privilege. Should your behaviour reflect poorly on the school in any way, that privilege shall not be extended again."

Harry approached her, his heart sinking. He barely opened his mouth to speak when Professor McGonagall turned to him, her gaze softening slightly but her tone firm.

"No permission form, no visiting the village. That's the rule, Potter."

Harry hesitated, desperation creeping into his voice. "Yes, Professor, but I thought if you said I could go—"

"But I don't say so," McGonagall interrupted, her tone leaving no room for argument. "A parent or guardian must sign, and since I am neither, it would be inappropriate."

For a brief moment, a flicker of pity crossed her usually stern face. "I'm sorry, Potter. But that's my final word."

As McGonagall turned her attention to the next student, Harry muttered under his breath, "If only Y/n could sign it..."

He quickly glanced around, knowing how ridiculous it sounded, but the thought lingered in his mind. Y/n seemed to be able to bend the rules in ways no one else could, his influence hangs over everything.

Ron and Hermione, watching expectantly from across the way, saw Harry turn back toward them and shake his head. Their faces fell in unison as Harry raised his hand in a resigned farewell, watching them go.

As they walked away, Hermione glanced around and asked, "Where do you think Y/n is?"

Ron shrugged casually, stuffing his hands into his pockets. "Dunno. Probably off doing something reserved like usual. You know how he is."

Hermione sighed, her curiosity piqued but not surprised. "I suppose..."

They both exchanged a glance with Harry, who simply nodded, trying to hide his unease as they moved towards the entrance to Hogsmeade.

As the crowd dispersed, Harry heard a familiar voice from behind.

"So. No Hogsmeade, eh?" Professor Lupin said, his tone light as he joined Harry.

They began walking along the bridge, the distant shouts of boys playing Quidditch echoing faintly in the background.

Harry sighed, his disappointment evident. "No Hogsmeade," he confirmed.

"Well, don't feel too bad," Lupin said, offering a comforting smile. "I was roundly disappointed the first time I went."

"Really?" Harry asked, looking up hopefully.

Lupin chuckled softly. "No, I was just trying to make you feel better. Honeydukes' sweets are the best in the world. Their Pepper Imps are so strong you smoke at the ears. And Zonko's Joke Shop may be dangerous, but you can't beat their Stink Pellets."