Chapter: 74 The End of the School Year

Harry awakened to the gentle, antiseptic aroma of the hospital wing and the murmur of subdued voices. His head was pounding, and his vision blurred momentarily before clearing. Surveying his surroundings, he noticed Professor Dumbledore seated next to his bed, wearing an expression that blended worry with solace. "Professor?" Harry croaked, his voice hoarse. "Ah, Harry, you're awake," Dumbledore said gently. "How are you feeling? "Harry tried to sit up, but a sharp pain shot through his body, making him wince. "What happened? The last thing I remember is facing Voldemort and then there was that weird girl in a costume. "Dumbledore nodded knowingly. "Yes, you're referring to Kin. She arrived just in time to help."He took a deep breath. "Professor Quirrell and Voldemort, as you know, were trying to steal the Philosopher's Stone. Voldemort had altered the potions in the logic puzzle to paralyze anyone who drank them, intending to prevent interference. When you and your friends drank the potion, you were paralyzed, as planned. Kin arrived just in time to intervene. "Kin cleverly forced physical contact between you and Voldemort, causing him immense pain and forcing him to flee. However, it was your mother's protection that ultimately saved you."Harry's mind was racing as he tried to process everything. "But what about the Stone? And Quirrell?""Professor Quirrell will face justice, including being sent to Azkaban," Dumbledore explained softly. "As for the Stone, Nicolas Flamel agreed that it was too dangerous to keep, so we have destroyed it."Harry nodded slowly, relief washing over him. "So it's finished? Voldemort is defeated?" "For the moment," Dumbledore replied, his tone somber. "But he will come back. Nonetheless, owing to you and your companions, we've gained some precious time." Harry reclined on his pillow, a blend of weariness and victory washing over him. "Thank you, Professor." "Now rest, Harry. There will be ample opportunity for inquiries later," Dumbledore advised, standing to depart. "You've deserved it."

 Later That Evening

The Great Hall was filled with excited chatter as the students gathered for the end-of-year feast. The tension of the past few days seemed to have lifted, replaced by a celebratory atmosphere. As Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Gemma entered the hall, they were greeted with cheers and applause.

Dumbledore stood at the front of the room, his face alight with a broad smile as he addressed the students. "Welcome to the end-of-year feast! Before we commence, I would like to make a few announcements."

The hall fell silent as Dumbledore continued. "Firstly, I must commend four students for their exceptional bravery and quick thinking in protecting the Philosopher's Stone. Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, and Gemma have demonstrated qualities that we value greatly at Hogwarts."

The hall erupted in applause as the four of them took their seats.

"Now, onto the House Cup," Dumbledore said, his eyes twinkling. "This year, the House Cup has been a closely contested competition. In fourth place, with 212 points, is Slytherin. In third place, with 252 points, is Gryffindor. In second place, with 400 points, is Hufflepuff. And in first place, with 422 points, is Ravenclaw!"

The Ravenclaw table erupted in cheers, their blue and silver banners waving proudly.

"However," Dumbledore continued, "I have some last-minute points to award. To Harry Potter, for his courage and determination, I award 50 points. To Hermione Granger, for her intellect and quick thinking, I award 50 points. To Ron Weasley, for his strategic mind and bravery, I award 50 points. And to Gemma, for her remarkable leadership, I award 50 points."

The Gryffindor table roared with applause, and the final tally shifted, placing Gryffindor in second place.

"Dumbledore's voice rang out, clear and joyful, 'Congratulations to Ravenclaw for securing the House Cup, and to each one of you for making this year remarkable. Now, let us commence the feast!'"

As the food appeared on the tables, Harry felt relieved that he got the points back, which he made Gryffindor lose. On the other side, Hermione Granger felt little useless since only place where she contributed became the problem, recalling how she couldn't identify it has been altered clinching her small fest under the table, she decided she will start reading more books and improve her portion and magic this vacation.