A/N: I don't own any of this (sadly, it all belongs to RR and JKR)

Prologue

Harry

I guess it all started on the 1st September. Me, Ron and Hermione were on the train, ready to begin our sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Yeah, we're wizards.

Last year, I proved to the world that Voldemort, the sole terror of the wizarding world, was back. Only problem was, to prove it my godfather, Sirius Black, had to die at the hands of Bellatrix Lestrange.

Then, all my worries were about Voldemort and who our next DADA teacher would be (long story cut short: last one was attacked by centaurs). Then, I only knew of two worlds: the muggle world (non-magic folk) and the wizarding world. I did not even suspect the existence of another world, concealed from us as we are from muggles. A world bigger and far more dangerous than mine, who, despite all, came to help.

The Hogwarts Express pulled up at Hogsmede Station, and the three of us got out, and walked over to the carriages.

"Firs' years! Firs' years this way!"

Hagrid's cry was familiar to me, but them I saw them. They were around my age, fifteen or sixteen. A guy with black hair and two girls, one blonde and the other with black hair in a punk-style. A young dark-haired boy who looked about thirteen followed the three of them. None of them were in robes, the punk girl had a silvery parka, and the others were in jeans and orange t-shirts. They crowded round Hagrid, looking around them warily. They seemed out of place among the eleven-year-olds, but I didn't give them much thought.

It was the start of term feast, and everything seemed normal. I was laughing and joking with the other Gryffindor boys, waiting for the sorting to begin. McGonagall strode in, followed by the first years... And the strange kids from the station. There was a lot of muttering, and I'm pretty sure I wasn't the only one staring at them all through the sorting.

Finally, all the first years were in their respective houses, and everyone was awaiting Dumbledore's speech, hoping it would shed some light on the new arrivals. Dumbledore stood up, and tapped his glass politely.

"Ahem. I would like to take the opportunity to introduce some new students from America."

At this, there was a lot of whispering. I glanced back at the four, who were looking bored, staring around at the floating candles and at Hagrid, who was head and shoulders above the other teachers. I turned my attention back to Dumbledore.

"They will be sorted into houses for their stay here, and will be dorming and sharing lessons with the sixth years. I hope you will all make them welcome."

He sat down and McGonagall stood back up.

"You will be sorted the same way as the first years. So, Chase, Annabeth."

The blonde girl turned to the black haired boy, gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and strode towards the stool confidently.