New Beginnings

Part 9

SIX MONTHS LATER

"Seventh years, please come forward," Professor McGonagall instructed.

The four houses were lined up by their respective tables in the Great Hall. Younger students had already gone home for the summer, unless invited to stay.

Today, Draco would bid farewell to Hogwarts.

Professor McGonagall looked down on them, arms open with joy. "My dear seventh years! Your journey at Hogwarts began right on these steps, where you were Sorted; not quite children, but not quite young adults.  You've all grown up to become fine people. Today, it's only fitting that here is also where your school journey ends. For many, however, they will never get this chance. I'd like us to start with a moment of silence for our students who gave their lives in the Battle of Hogwarts."

Even the ceiling seemed to hush as everyone fell mute, lost in thought.

This one's for you, Crabbe, Draco thought. I'm sorry I treated you so horribly. He'd never really appreciated Crabbe's loyalty until it was too late.

"Now, as your name is called, you will receive two gifts. One will be given to you by your respective Heads of House. The other is my token."

She held a ball in her fist: a golden Sneakoscope. "My greatest wish is that you do not see another Wizarding War during your lifetime. We've entered a peaceful time, but you cannot go unprepared. I hope these Sneakoscopes allow you to be one step ahead of your potential enemies."

Very useful, in Draco's case. He still worried that other Death Eaters might come after him. One spin of his new Sneakoscope, and he could know if something dark was going on nearby.

"I will next ask Professor Pomona Sprout to read the names of our seventh-years from Hufflepuff House."

Professor Sprout shook hands with each Hufflepuff, which included this year's Head Boy, Richard Collins, handing them a pack of seeds. What magical plant they grew, Draco could only guess.

Professor Flitwick, standing on his usual book pile, introduced the Ravenclaws. They each received (what a shock!) a book. Before long, "Luna Pandora Lovegood" skipped her way towards Flitwick. Draco hadn't ever spoken to her, but other people said she was an oddball. She'd been seen around Harry Potter frequently. Maybe not so odd.

"Truly, Gryffindor House has left a real mark on Hogwarts and the wizarding world ever since it was established. Being Sorted into this house myself, of course, I'm rather biased. Professor Sinistra?"

The astronomy teacher assumed her place as the new head of Gryffindor. There were a few names Draco vaguely recognized from his classes. He couldn't quite pay attention enough.

"Your Head Girl, Hermione Jean Granger."

Later:

"...And the last of our Gryffindors, Quidditch Captain, Miss Ginerva Molly Weasley!"

A host of redheads cheered for Ginny as she stepped up to claim her awards.  Which is why the boy with dark, unkempt hair, and hideous glasses stood out among them.  Draco hadn't seen his face since the Battle of Hogwarts.

"Well, well, well," he muttered. "Harry Potter."

Being within hearing range, Harry pivoted to glance over at him, nodding. "Malfoy."

"Yes, congratulations!" McGonagall declared. "However, I must confess that we've not yet recognized all of our Gryffindors. There are three outstanding students who, rather than complete seventh year with their peers, went on a mission. This mission led to the downfall of Lord Voldemort. Therefore, it's only fair that each of them receives an award for services to the school. First, I want to acknowledge Mister Ronald Bilius Weasley."