The 4th year wizard Joaquin hurried along, his bag jangling like a pair of keys. His wand was in his back pocket, stickIng out slightly so that it could be easily reached for defense. He was reciting spells in his head, as he believed a proper Ravenclaw should.

The train station was bustling as usual, and Joaquin's black Phoenix, Ripflame, was squawking from the cart, simply adding to the noise.

Joaquin ran towards the pillar to Platform 9 3/4 and charged through, moments before it closed. He let out a sigh of relief and slowed down.

"ALL ABOARD FOR HOGWARTS!" the conductor shouted.

Joaquin took his single suitcase and Ripflame's cage and boarded the train, going straight towards an empty compartment.

He opened the door and let his Phoenix fly free before tucking his suitcase under the seat and sitting down.

Ripflame shrieked with happiness and flew off to explore the train.

Joaquin thought about relaxing, but sat with a straight spine when he saw a girl with long red hair like a comet, tan skin, and his bird coming towards the compartment.

"Is this yours?" she asked in a high, sing-song voice. She held out the Phoenix, who was desperately trying to get free.

Joaquin nodded silently.

The girl looked Ripflame over. "He's beautiful. What's his name?"

Joaquin mumbled something that was inaudible over the roar of the train.

"What was that?" the girl asked. "I can't hear you."

Joaquin mumbled again, but it was audible this time.

"Ripflame, huh? Cute name. I'm Rose, by the way. Rose Berrymander."

"I'm Joaquin," Joaquin responded. "Joaquin Hunt."