Chapter 5: An Excess Of Phlegm

Late at night, Dumbledore brings Harry to the Burrow, where they meet a withdrawn Tonks before Dumbledore departs. Mrs. Weasley feeds Harry and proudly reveals Arthur’s promotion to head a new Ministry office combating counterfeit defensive items. Arthur returns under strict identity checks, describing scams like Metamorph-Medals amid general danger.

Harry sleeps in Fred and George’s box-strewn room and is awakened by Ron and Hermione. Ginny arrives, irritated with Mrs. Weasley, but the source is revealed when Fleur Delacour enters with breakfast and announces her engagement to Bill. Molly and Ginny bristle, dubbing her “Phlegm,” while Ron is dazzled and Hermione scornful of the infatuation.

The friends discuss Tonks’s recent depression and weakened Metamorphmagus abilities, which Hermione attributes to shock and survivor’s guilt over Sirius. Harry then tells Ron and Hermione the prophecy that “neither can live while the other survives,” and they respond with support, assuming Dumbledore’s private lessons mean confidence in Harry’s chances. A joke telescope punches Hermione, adding comic relief.

As morning advances, three owls deliver OWL results. Harry passes most subjects, achieving Outstanding in Defense Against the Dark Arts and Exceeds Expectations in Potions, but failing Divination and History of Magic. Ron earns seven OWLs, while Hermione attains ten Outstandings and one Exceeds Expectations. Though relieved overall, Harry worries his Potions grade will block his long-held Auror ambition.