Elegy//Harry Potter [3]

12

The school days with the four were normal. Autumn had no idea about Cayden, let alone what else had happened in her dream. Things were great. Autumn notice the stares coming from her fellow Gryffindors, but she just assumed they were staring at one of the others.

Defense Against the Dark Arts have been fun. Each class was different, yet had the comfort of familiarity each time. 

The five days that Autumn missed were the days that all the teachers decided to assign homework. So, Autumn had a lot of work to do. In Snape's class, Autumn had two day to finish it. In the other classes, Autumn had a week.

Soon enough, October came around and the four were excited. Autumn couldn't help but feel excited too. Quidditch season was arriving and Autumn loved the sport. Even though Autumn didn't try out, watching the players glide across the air was calming to her. Except for when she was screaming at the players. That wasn't very calming.

The final day of October, Halloween, was Hogsmeade weekend. Autumn couldn't remember why she didn't get the paper signed. Now that she thought about it, Autumn didn't know why Madame Dreace left the orphanage, and Miss Clementine joined.

The thought quickly left Autumn's head the moment the trip arrived.

"Remember, these visits to Hogsmeade village are a privilege. Should your behavior reflect poorly on the school. . . that privilege shall not be extended again," McGonagall said to all the kids, checking the signatures as she spoke.

Hermione and Ron had their papers signed -- Harry and Autumn didn't. Finally, Hermione and Ron had their papers checked with McGonagall.

"No permission form signed, no visiting the village." McGonagall looked at Autumn and Harry, as she saw their paper without a signature. "That's the rule, Potter, Grey. Those with permission, follow me. Those without, stay put." 

"We thought if you signed it, then—" 

"I can't. Only a parent or a guardian can sign. Since I am neither, it would be inappropriate. I'm sorry. That's my final word," McGonagall said. 

Autumn suddenly felt curiosity practically shooting out of her. Why did no one sign her paper? Why did Madame Dreace leave? Why did Madame Clementine join? 

"Forget about it, guys. See you later," Harry said.

"Yeah. We'll be fine. Have fun out there, and don't forget to tell us all about it." Autumn said, keeping the paper in hand.

"We'll bring you lots of candy." Hermione tried to cheer the two up.

"Yeah, loads." Ron added.

"No, no. It's fine. Don't worry about us. We'll be fine. Right, Harry?" Autumn looked at Harry.

"Er -- yeah. We'll see you at the feast. Have a good time."

Harry and Autumn walked back to the Gryffindor Tower. First and second years were scattered along, obviously enjoying having most of the seats in the common room.

"Hiya, Harry!" A voice said.

"No. . ." Harry groaned.

Autumn laughed.

"Aren't you going to Hogsmeade, Harry? Why not? Hey, you can sit with us if you'd like, Harry!"

"Actually, Colin," said Autumn. "We have to study in the library."

"We are?" Harry asked.

Autumn discreetly stepped on Harry's foot.

"Ow - oh, yeah. I forgot that was tonight." Harry said.