Hello, everyone! This is my very first story on this site and this fandom! :) As you can tell by the summary, it will be centered about an OC who journeys through her years at Hogwarts as a Slytherin and is determined to set her House standards right. Just so you all know, I own nothing, except for my OC. I hope you enjoy!
Please review! :)
Chapter One: Hogwarts
The air was buzzing with excitement.
Scarlett Beckett inhaled deeply as her big, chocolate-brown eyes drank in the sceneries before her. The large Hogwarts Express stood tall and she watched silently as countless people filed into the train, their excited chatter and laughter reaching her ears. She swallowed uncomfortably and scooted closer to her mother, tightening her grip on her hand.
Her mother, a tall and shockingly beautiful woman smiled down at her, amusement twinkling in her eyes. "Nervous dear?" she asked teasingly.
Although she was, Scarlett puffed out her chest and scowled. "Of course, not," she declared.
Her twin sister, Karina Beckett, a stunningly pretty girl with long, silky light brown hair and dazzling hazel eyes turned around to frown up at their mother. "Why would Scarlett be nervous to attend Hogwarts, mum?" she asked with a cheeky look towards her sister. "She couldn't stop talking about it during breakfast! Besides, you and dad said there's nothing to be worried about."
Their father, a tall man with the same brown hair and hazel eyes as Karina smiled fondly. "Of course, there's nothing to be worried about," he laughed. "Hogwarts is the best wizarding school out there. You two wouldn't want to attend anywhere else." He glanced at his wife. "Remember the good old days, Natalie? You and I in Gryffindor, enjoying the time of our lives?" he asked.
Their mother chuckled. "I would never forget them, Hudson," she replied wistfully.
Scarlett blinked up at her parents, a look of curiosity tracing her features. "Was it that great?" she wondered aloud. Both of her parents turned to look at her.
"Why, but of course!" her father exclaimed. "Scarlett, dear, you and your sister are going to love being at Hogwarts. Blimey, I was a naïve muggle-born student back in my time, but I still grew to love it and so did your mother." His smile slowly fell, only to be replaced with a dark scowl. "Except, it would've been much better if there weren't any bloody Slytherins."
Scarlett and Karina exchanged knowing looks. It was no secret that their parents absolutely loathed Slytherin House. Scarlett suspected it was because they were Gryffindors, but then later on learned that those Slytherins gave their parents a very hard time. Her father came from no wizarding family and her mother was labelled as a blood traitor, thus they both endured endless scorn and ridicule. Besides, those Slytherins were now Death Eaters and her parents are Aurors, so it wasn't exactly surprising.
Karina frowned. "Is Slytherin really that bad?" she asked.
"Worse than bad," her mother said darkly. "It's the worst House anyone could possibly be sorted in. That place is filled with arrogant, prejudiced gits that have unhealthy obsessions with dark magic and blood purity. You would make no friends in Slytherin." She said, leaning forward to brush a stray strand of hair from Karina's face. "But, you two shouldn't worry. You'll both be sorted into Gryffindor."
"Without a shadow of a doubt," her father added with a grin.
Scarlett's eyes lit up at the mention of the House. Her whole life, her parents had filled her and Karina about stories about how the bravest and most noble wizards and witches came from Gryffindor. The House was known to be the most fun and energetic in all of Hogwarts and even the great Albus Dumbledore was formerly a Gryffindor himself. Better yet, both of her parents and her extended family from her mother's side have all been Gryffindors for four generations. It was only expected of her and Karina to be sorted there as well.
The Hogwarts Express let out the signaling whistle for departure and Scarlett jumped in surprise. She felt a stab of panic electrify through her and immediately scrambled for her trunk, Karina doing the same. She looked up at her parents and gave each of them a tight hug, a brilliant smile grazing her lips. "I'll see you during the Holidays," she promised them as she stepped back to meet their gaze.
Her mother smiled gently. "Make sure to write us every single week," she reminded her.
"Work hard, okay?" her father added sternly. "I want the two of you to be the best witches Hogwarts has ever received. Try your best, have fun, and don't get into too much trouble." He bent down to kiss each of them on the forehead.
Scarlett laughed, while Karina giggled. Although they were twins, Scarlett and Karina were hardly that similar. Scarlett inherited her mother's long, thick fiery auburn hair and chocolate-brown eyes, while Karina inherited her father's silky light brown hair and bright hazel eyes. Scarlett was more adventurous, daring, mischievous and Karina was more of an obedient, responsible, goody-two-shoes.
The twins smiled. "Bye!" they called as they hurried towards the already full Hogwarts Express. Their parents waved and echoed them.
Climbing into the train, Scarlett exhaled slowly and pulled her trunk higher, her gaze wandering over her surroundings. The narrow path inside of the Hogwarts Express was filled with students walking in front of them, searching for their own compartments. Scarlett glanced around in search of an empty compartment for her and Karina to share, but felt a mixture of disappointment and indigence linger inside of her when she spotted none.
"Let's check in the back," Karina suggested as she took the lead. Scarlett followed.
The compartments in the back turned out to be taken as well and Scarlett felt her stomach churn uncomfortably. Obviously, their only choice now was to join an already used compartment and that idea did not sit with her well at all. Karina, however, didn't seem to mind and was about to open a used compartment when a voice behind them stopped her from doing so.
"Excuse me, but have either of you seen a toad?"
Scarlett and Karina turned around to see a girl around their age with very bushy hair that almost resembled a mane and rather large front teeth. Behind her was a small, plump boy with a round face, who looked sheepish and upset. The sisters exchanged looks before turning back to them.
"Sorry, we haven't," Karina said, her gaze curious. "Why? Did one of you lose a toad?"
"Yeah," the boy spoke up, his voice quiet and soft. "I did. His name's Trevor."
Karina shook her head slowly. "No, we didn't see a toad anywhere. We just arrived here, you see." A kind smile suddenly traced her lips. "But we'd be glad to help! My name's Karina Beckett and this is my twin sister, Scarlett." She indicated to Scarlett with a jerk of her head. Scarlett smiled politely at the two.
"I'm Hermione Granger," the bushy-haired girl said. "And he's Neville Longbottom."
Scarlett nodded in acknowledgment. "We're sorry that you lost your toad," she said honestly, bringing the attention of all of them on her. "But my sister and I really need to find ourselves a compartment. Besides, I think the Prefects would be a much better help than us." She suggested helpfully.
Hermione's eyes brightened. "Oh, why didn't I think of that?" she said before turning to beam at Neville. "Come on, Neville. The Prefects will definitely be able to help us find Trevor." She glanced at Scarlett to smile gratefully at her. "Thank you." She said.
Scarlett returned her smile with a genuine one of her own before Karina quickly but in.
"We'll come along," she insisted. "Since we're all starting our first day at Hogwarts, wouldn't it be nice to tag alone?"
Scarlett felt a stab of annoyance at her sister's words and fought the urge to scowl. "Karina, we really need to find a compartment." She said evenly. "The Prefects will be able to help them. Meanwhile, we should find some place to put our trunks and settle down before we arrive at Hogwarts." She explained, moving to continue to walk deeper into the train.
Karina stared at her. "It's fine," she reassured her. "We'll find Trevor and pick a compartment with them."
Scarlett bristled. "They'll all be taken by then," she said. Karina glared at her.
"They're all already taken," her sister said crossly. "What's wrong with helping others? The compartment's not a big deal and even if they're all full, we're still going to find one either way. There's no need to be so worried about it." She said. Scarlett gritted her teeth and hated the way Hermione and Neville stared at them, both intrigued and a bit taken aback.
"Fine," she said tonelessly, tugging her trunk with her. "You go with them. I'll find a compartment for us. Deal?"
Karina stared at her, her hazel eyes meeting Scarlett's chocolate-brown ones. A tense silence fell between the two twins and after what seemed like forever, Karina let out a sigh. "Whatever," she said, waving her hand dismissively. "We'll go look for you when we're done. Make sure to pick one in the back." She advised, turning to smile at Hermione and Neville. "Shall we go look for Trevor now?"
Neville nodded slowly. "Er… yeah, sure," he said rather awkwardly. He flashed an apologetic look at Scarlett. "We'll see you later?" he asked almost timidly. Scarlett smiled gently at him.
"Of course," she reassured him. She bid the three of them farewell and watched rather enviously as they all walked side by side to search for Trevor. They hadn't even arrived at Hogwarts yet and it seemed that Karina had already started making friends before her. A low sigh escaped her lips. This was definitely going to be a long train ride.
The Path to Greatness
It took Scarlett about a solid five minutes to find a compartment at the back that wasn't too full. She held back a grimace when she spotted the shadow of someone through the blurry glass frame. Taking a deep breath and mustering up all of her courage, Scarlett gently pushed the compartment door aside, her gaze immediately falling on the person sitting alone.
Scarlett blinked in bewilderment as an admittedly pretty girl with long, glossy blond hair and bold green eyes looked up simultaneously. Their eyes met and Scarlett smiled politely at her.
"Sorry to bother you," she said quietly. "But everywhere else is really full. Mind if I join you?"
Much to her surprise and immense relief, the girl smiled at her warmly. "Go ahead," she said, gesturing to the empty seat in front of her. "I was getting pretty bored on my own, anyway." She offered her a friendly grin. Scarlett returned it with a grateful smile and complied, softly closing the door behind her and settling onto the seat in front of her. She set her trunk down.
"I'm Scarlett, by the way," she said. "Scarlett Beckett."
"Daphne Greengrass," the girl replied good-naturedly. "And Beckett, you said? Are you muggle-born?"
Scarlett almost winced at the question and expected Daphne to suddenly turn hostile. She'd heard of the name Greengrass multiple times and knew they were an old, pureblood family and were one of the Sacred Twenty Eight. It wouldn't be a surprise if she turned out to be prejudiced. "Actually, no. I'm a half-blood." She replied cautiously.
Daphne smiled. "Well, I wouldn't have minded, either way," she laughed. "I don't believe in all that blood supremacy rubbish."
Scarlett blinked. "Really?" she said, unable to disguise the surprise in her tone.
"Really," Daphne confirmed. "My parents raised me to believe that although you should be proud to be a pureblood, it's not an excuse for you to go around treating non-purebloods like rubbish. We all use the same magic in the end and your heritage doesn't define who you are." She said, glancing nonchalantly out of the window. "Unfortunately, not all purebloods feel the same way."
With that very short speech, Scarlett immediately took a strong liking towards Daphne. The girl didn't only seem warm and friendly, but definitely was clever and held a lot of wisdom for her age. A bright smile lit up her features. "I can imagine," she said. "It's precisely the reason why my parents despise Slytherin House so much. They were both formerly Gryffindors, you see, and they expect me and my sister to be sorted there as well."
Daphne's gaze suddenly sharpened and she turned to gaze at her. "Slytherin's not a bad House," she said in a flash. "They have a dark reputation, yes, but my parents were Slytherins. So were their parents before them. It's the only House I want to go to and just because a few prejudiced people come from that House doesn't mean they're all like that. My parents were never like that and neither am I." she said firmly, her green eyes alight with defensiveness. Scarlett instantly regretted speaking in the first place.
"Er… I mean… I never really said it's a bad House. I just said my parents think that and that they don't want me to go there." She shrugged lightly. "Besides, my family have been Gryffindors for four generations. My parents are known to the wizarding world as Aurors who whole-heartedly support rights for muggles and muggle-borns and basically all non-purebloods." A humorless smile overtook her lips. "Imagine someone like me getting sorted into Slytherin."
It was true, however. Scarlett's parents were famous and well-known amongst the wizarding world. Her mother had written a book about the rights for Squibs and written a whole, long article about why muggles are more than what they seem and shouldn't be looked down upon. Her father had given countless speeches in the Ministry of Magic about how muggle-borns deserved more opportunities and that blood supremacy should stop. It wasn't a secret that they were despised by pureblood families, such as the Blacks and Malfoys. Getting sorted into Slytherin would be the worst thing possible for someone like Scarlett.
Realization flickered in Daphne's eyes. "Ah," she said softly. "Yes, I remember. My parents told me about your family. My father works in the Ministry, too. He's the Head of the Department of International Magical Cooperation. He talked to your father a few times." She smiled at her kindly. "He said your father was light-hearted and laid-back." She chuckled mischievously.
Scarlett ducked her head sheepishly. "Tell him thanks."
Daphne's smile, however, fell, only to be replaced with a faint frown. "So, I take it you want to be sorted into Gryffindor?" she asked, her voice laced with disappointment.
Scarlett sighed. "I mean, I guess," she said. "All my life, my parents kept filling me and my sister with stories about great Gryffindors and how it was simply the best House to be put in. Plus, I can imagine just how furious they would be if I ended up anywhere else. Especially Slytherin." She shot her a sincerely apologetic look. "Sorry. I really like you a lot, but I guess it wouldn't be possible for us to be in the same House."
Daphne's shoulders drooped slightly. "No, I guess not." She admitted with a sigh.
The pair of them fell into a silence that wasn't exactly awkward, but not comfortable, either. Scarlett busied herself by gazing outside of the window, admiring the view while Daphne inspected her nails. After a few minutes, the Hogwarts Express tea trolley came in with offered snacks. Daphne bought chocolate frogs, while Scarlett chose sugar quills, her personal favourite. Once the lady left, Scarlett decided to ask Daphne about what she thought was so great about Slytherin when the door to their compartment burst open violently.
The two witches jumped and turned to see three wizards their age. The one at the front had platinum blond hair and icy gray eyes and very pale, pointed features. He seemed handsome, but in a rather haughty way and gazed around their compartment before an indignant look crossed his features. "Have any of you seen Harry Potter?" he asked. "Word says he's on the train."
Daphne gazed at him coolly. "Does it look like he's here?" she asked icily.
The boy narrowed his eyes at her. "Do you at least know where he is?" he prompted.
"On the train, maybe?" Daphne said and Scarlett had to bite back a laugh at her sass.
The boy glared at her in great dislike before turning to regard her instead. "Have you seen him?" he practically snapped. Scarlett shook her head.
"No, I haven't, sorry," she said politely. "He's probably in another compartment."
"Why do you care where he is, anyway?" Daphne asked crossly.
The boy sneered at her. "None of your business, Greengrass," he jeered mockingly. "How about you learn a bit about manners, like your friend here?" he snapped and in her humble opinion, Scarlett thought he was being a bit rich. She was still a bit flattered at his words, nonetheless.
"Go back to your hole, Malfoy!" Daphne snapped. "Scarlett and I don't have time for you."
Malfoy suddenly blinked and he turned to Scarlett, his gray eyes slightly widened. "Scarlett, did she say?" he said. "As in Scarlett Beckett? The twin sister of that annoying brunette?" a look of absolute disgust traced his features as he stared at her. "Oh, great. You're the daughter of those Aurors who fight for the rights of muggles and mudbloods." He sniffed. "Blimey, I thought you were rather okay unlike that Greengrass bigot. Turns our you're just as bad."
All right, never mind. Her flattery from before had completely evaporated.
Scarlett jumped to her feet, her eyes ablaze. "Excuse me?" she said furiously. "First of all, don't call Daphne a bigot because if anyone's a bigot here, it's you. Secondly, don't use that foul word around me! My father happened to be a muggle-born wizard, mind you!" she snapped, feeling anger bubble up inside of her chest.
Malfoy simply raised his eyebrows. "Yes, everyone's aware he's a mudblood," he drawled.
"Why, you-!"
Scarlett was cut off when the two wizards behind Malfoy stepped forwards, cracking their knuckles threateningly. They were both very large and bulky and Scarlett knew she would simply be no match for them. Malfoy laughed scornfully.
"Crabbe, Goyle, leave her," he sneered. "She's not worth our time. Let's go search for Potter instead."
At his words, his two gorilla-like friends followed behind him, leaving Scarlett and Daphne alone. Scarlett slammed the door shut with unnecessary force and sat down back in her seat, fuming. Daphne glared murderously at the spot where they had left before turning to Scarlett, her eyes softening.
"Scarlett, don't let them get to you. That was Draco Malfoy. I bumped into him at the Hogwarts Station and Merlin, was he the most annoying, foul, wizard you could ever meet. Don't pay him any attention. That git isn't worth it." She said firmly, standing up to sit beside Scarlett, resting a hand on her shoulder.
Scarlett glared at the window. "How much do you want to bet he won't be the only one like that at Hogwarts?" she growled darkly.
Daphne sighed. "Scarlett, come on," she said. "Not everyone's an arrogant toad, like Malfoy. Besides…" she added a bit reluctantly. "Since you'll obviously be in Gryffindor, you won't have to deal with any of that. Personally, I'm not really fond of the people in that House, but I can assure you they don't care a single bit about blood-status."
Scarlett exhaled through her nostrils. "Whatever," she muttered.
Daphne bit her bottom lip unsurely before squeezing her shoulder. "Hey, it's your first day at Hogwarts," she said. "Don't let someone like Malfoy ruin it for you. Come on! It'll be fun and exciting. Imagine all the things we can learn and the many subjects. We can finally use magic as we please! You shouldn't be upset. You should be happy." She stood up from her seat and beamed down at her. "Now, come on. We're arriving soon and we better put on our robes."
Scarlett slowly looked up at her hesitantly and breathed out a heavy sigh. A small smile tugged at her lips. "You're right," she said, forcing herself to her feet. Daphne grinned and handed her her robes.
"Are you ready?" she asked in barely contained excitement.
Scarlett returned her grin brightly. "Ready," she confirmed.
The Path to Greatness
Scarlett had heard countless stories about Hogwarts and knew it was the biggest and most breathtaking school any witch or wizard could lay eyes upon. However, as she hopped off of the boat she'd shared with Daphne and followed Rubeus Hagrid and the other first-years, she couldn't help but let her jaw fall agape.
Hogwarts was enormous.
The dark castle stretched high and cast elegant shadows upon the ground. Its many windows were lit by a warm golden light and Scarlett could vividly imagine the candles floating in the air, just like her parents told her. From all around her, students let out awed breaths and began whispering excitedly amongst each other. She held her breath in anticipation as she entered the school with the others.
If Hogwarts was glorious on the outside, then it was simply beyond glorious on the inside. Her chocolate-brown eyes widened impossibly wide and a small gasp escaped her lips. The room was wide-spaced and airy with an enchanted ceiling above, reflecting the night, starry sky. The floors were polished and glittered as if they were made of gold and Scarlett immediately knew that no matter how many years she spent in this place, it would never grow old.
Her thoughts were interrupted when the gates burst open and a tall, slender woman, dressed in silky robes and a pointed hat entered. Her features were wrinkly and she wore glasses with a very stern expression. Scarlett suspected she was the type of woman one did not simply mess with. The woman's eyes swept over them before she turned to regard Hagrid.
"The firs years, Professor McGonagall," the giant man said.
"Thank you, Rubeus, I'll take them from here," she said formally.
Hagrid nodded cheerfully and sauntered off, humming pleasantly.
McGonagall turned to them. "Welcome to Hogwarts," she began. "The start-of-term banquet will begin shortly. But before you take your seats in the Great Hall, you will be sorted into your Houses. The Sorting is a very important ceremony because, while you are here, your House will be like your family. You will have classes with the rest of your House, sleep in your House dormitory and spend free time in your House common room."
Scarlett swallowed uncomfortably. It would suck if she ended up in a House she didn't like.
"The four Houses are called Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin," McGonagall explained. "Each House has its own noble history and each has produced outstanding wizards and witches. While you are here at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn your house points, while any rule-breaking will lose house points. At the end of the year, the house with the most points is awarded the House Cup, a great honor. I hope each of you became a credit to whichever house becomes yours."
"Better not be Slytherin," Scarlett overheard a red-haired, freckle-faced boy whisper to a messy-haired boy with glasses. She felt Daphne stiffen in anger beside her.
McGonagall continued, "the Sorting ceremony will take place in a few minutes in front of the rest of the school. I suggest you all smarten yourselves up as much as you can while you are waiting. I shall return when you are ready. Please wait quietly." And with those words, she left and exited the Great Hall.
Daphne immediately turned to Scarlett. "I'm going to kill that boy," she snarled under her breath.
Scarlett blinked and switched her gaze to the red-haired boy, who was still talking to his friend.
"Trust me, Harry, Slytherin's the last House you want to be sorted in," he said. "McGonagall said each House produced its own share of great wizards, but not Slytherin. I mean, come on, You-Know-You is probably the only wizard they think is great and everyone knows he's anything but that." He said with a snigger. Daphne opened her mouth to snap at him, but Scarlett sharply elbowed her.
"Not here," she hissed.
Daphne glared at her furiously. "He's insulting my House!" she growled.
Scarlett found it vaguely amusing how Daphne hadn't even been sorted, yet she declared that she belonged in Slytherin. She shook her head. "Don't make a scene," she said firmly. "Do you think you'd make a good impression to your House if you started a fight?" she asked sharply. Daphne grinded her teeth and let out a huff before pointedly looking away. Scarlett simply sighed.
A short while passed with the students around her glancing around nervously. Scarlett bit her bottom lip, deep in thought about how the Sorting would exactly work and what she would be required to do. Daphne simply resumed glowering at the red-haired wizard, who was completely oblivious to her loathsome look. After a brief moment, McGonagall returned once again.
"Follow me," she said shortly "And form a line."
Everyone did as she said and Scarlett lined up in front of Daphne, her expression curious. They walked through a pair of double doors and Scarlett's eyes widened in astonishment, her jaw falling open at the breathtaking sight of the Great Hall.
Thousands upon thousands of candles floated delicately in the air, glimmering warmly. A thousand stars scattered wildly on the enchanted ceiling, twinkling and gleaming with thin strips of clouds travelling lazily across the sky. Scarlett felt a grin stretch upon her lips at the sight. Hogwarts was simply full of surprises, that was for sure.
Four long tables were set neatly across the room with a slightly shorter table at the very front. Scarlett suspected it was where the teachers sat, seeing how all the adults were seated there. Her gaze snapped to the four tables. The students occupying the tables all wore different coloured ties, consisting of red and gold, yellow and black, blue and bronze, and green and silver. Scarlett's gaze narrowed slightly as she noticed the Slytherins. They were all staring at the first-years with either bored or indifferent expressions. She gave a tiny scoff. Arrogant toads. I already don't like them.
As McGonagall led them to the front of the room, Scarlett allowed her gaze to wander over the school, admiring the view. She spotted Karina standing with Hermione and Neville, gazing in awe at the place. Malfoy had his arms crossed over his chest and had a rather smug look traced across his features. Scarlett resisted the urge to roll her eyes. He would definitely fit in Slytherin, all right.
Her gaze settled upon a small, four-legged stool which held a very old, ragged, and torn hat. Scarlett's brows met together in confusion as she stared at it. Was that it? Was this old hat possibly the thing that would determine which House they would be sorted into? Scarlett held back a pleased smile. That was easier than she'd thought. However, out of the blue, the hat twitched and a rip near the brim opened wide like a mouth - and the hat began to sing:
"Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find
A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black,
Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head
The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you
Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffis are true and unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
if you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folk use any means
To achieve their ends.
So, put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
You're in safe hands (though I have none)
For I'm a Thinking Cap!"
Scarlett stared at the hat as if it had a disease. The Great Hall erupted into applause and cheers.
Professor McGonagall stepped forwards, holding a long scroll. She cleared her throat and looked up to gaze at them. "Abbot, Hannah," she said.
A pink-faced girl with blond pig-tails, whom Scarlett decided looked very nervous stepped forwards, shaking visibly. She sat on the stool and put the hat on her head, her fingers shaking slightly. After a moment, the Sorting Hat bellowed, "HUFFLEPUFF!" and the table on the far-left corner exploded into loud cheers.
Hannah immediately relaxed and with a brilliant smile went to off join her new housemates.
"Huh," Daphne mused aloud. "So, it really is that easy."
Scarlett simply nodded, unable to find her voice. Although she'd been utterly excited at first, her stomach churned uncomfortably and anxiety bubbled up inside of her chest. She gritted her teeth as she almost felt nauseous. Although the task at hand was easy, she despised the fact that she had to do it in front of the whole school. If Scarlett hated anything at all, it was being at the center of attention. That was more Karina's thing.
She watched silently as the other students got sorted. Scarlett realized the majority of them either went to Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw, and a few went to Gryffindor. Slytherin, however, were yet to receive someone. Scarlett's gaze snapped to the table on the far right. The Slytherins stared at them with the same bored expressions, as if they couldn't careless if someone came or not. Scarlett decided they looked like an unfriendly lot.
"Beckett, Karina!"
Scarlett started when her sister was called up. She immediately whipped around to see Karina beam brightly, flipping her hair over her shoulder and sauntering confidently towards the stool. She felt sick to the stomach when she realized she would be next and could only hope she didn't make a fool out of herself.
Karina sat down and put the hat on. It was only after a few short seconds before the hat yelled, "GRYFFINDOR!"
The Gryffindor table exploded into very loud cheers and applause and Scarlett could tell they were glad to have her. Karina grinned and skipped happily towards her housemates, not before flashing Scarlett a reassuring smile. Scarlett returned it weakly.
"Beckett, Scarlett," McGonagall said.
Oh, no.
Scarlett swallowed thickly and mustering up all of her courage, she walked towards the stool, hoping she didn't look like a deer in headlights. In her humble opinion, she thought the walk to the stool was the longest and most awkward walk with every single person staring at her. As she seated herself upon the stool, letting McGonagall put the hat on her, she realized that the entire Gryffindor table were staring at he expectantly. She was Karina's twin sister. Why wouldn't she be sorted there as well?
Scarlett willed her breathing to slow down as Professor McGonagall placed the Sorting Hat upon her head, engulfing her in complete darkness.
A moment of absolute silence passed for a few tense seconds and Scarlett shifted uneasily onto the stool, her heart hammering in her chest.
My, a voice said in her mind at last, prompting her to jump a little. I haven't had someone like this in a while.
Scarlett bit her bottom lip, though her brows furrowed a little as she gripped the edges of the stool tightly. Someone like her? She was practically having a heart attack by simply sitting on a stool with an old Hat on her head, what could possibly be so intriguing about that? Nevertheless, she stayed silent and held her breath in anticipation.
Well, let's see here… the Sorting Hat mused. You are definitely one courageous girl with that bravery of yours. Very daring and rebellious, I see… you seem to have a certain distaste for rules… plenty of compassion and kindness, too, my, yes… right, then… where shall I put you?
Scarlett inhaled deeply. Gryffindor, she thought firmly.
Gryffindor, huh? The Sorting Hat echoed, sounding very amused. That's not surprising indeed- seeing how I placed all of your past family members into Gryffindor. However, although you would be a credit to that House, I don't think it's quite the right place for you.
Scarlett froze, her blood turning cold. What?
Well, you're very complicated, you see, he said. Aside from all that courage and compassion of yours, you do carry a lot of ambition in you. A great desire to be the absolute best, I see… Ah, and what great resilience do I see here! Plenty of determination and intelligence to go with it, too… my, my, you really are power-hungry, aren't you?
Scarlett blinked, not knowing how to respond to that. In all truthfulness, she simply thirsted to prove herself and become an accomplished witch- perhaps better than the rest, but nothing more than that. Was she really that ambitious that the Sorting Hat described her as power-hungry? Her stomach churned uncomfortably at that thought. Her parents always used that word when describing dark wizards.
Right then, the Sorting Hat continued, snapping her from her thoughts. You prove to be very clever and resourceful… I can only imagine what House would suit those traits of yours perfectly.
Horror coursed through Scarlett like a lightning bolt. No! She thought frantically. No, no, no, no, if you're planning to put me in Slytherin, don't! I don't want to go there! She begged, feeling panic bubble inside of her chest. She couldn't go to Slytherin. Her parents would kill her.
I'm afraid that's not a very wise decision, Scarlett, the Sorting Hat replied comfortingly. You'll be great in Slytherin, you see. All that ambition and resilience of yours will lead you to the path of greatness. Trust me on this decision, Scarlett and you'll find yourself being the next great witch there is.
No! Scarlett thought with rising panic. I can't be in Slytherin! I don't want to be in Slytherin!
My job is to sort witches and wizards to where they belong, not where they want to go, the Sorting Hat replied calmly. And you belong in Slytherin and Slytherin only. Gryffindor would've been a good match for you, but you've proven to me that you're more ambitious than you are courageous. Trust me, Scarlett, you're not the first person to protest my decision, but you certainly won't regret it. Slytherin will help you on the way to greatness.
No! Please! Scarlett thought and she had to bite her tongue to keep from saying it out loud.
You'll make Slytherin House great again, Scarlett, the Sorting Hat replied. Anyhow, it better be…
Don't you dare! Scarlett practically snarled in her head.
"SLYTHERIN!" The Sorting Hat bellowed and Scarlett felt dread bubble inside of her chest once the hat was removed off of her head. Her heart hammered furiously in her chest and she felt as if ice coursed through her veins, freezing her on the spot.
She was a Slytherin. A bloody Slytherin.
The silence in the Great Hall was deafening.
Scarlett bit her bottom lip tightly, feeling anxiety course through every nerve in her body. Shocked faces stared up at her and Scarlett glimpsed Karina staring at her as if she had been smacked in the face. Swallowing uncomfortably and feeling extremely self-conscious, Scarlett hastily removed herself from the stool and scurried over to her new housemates. Their bored and indifferent expressions were now replaced with undisguised disdain and rage as they glowered at her.
Sweet Merlin, Scarlett thought with panic as she sat down at the edge of the table. They didn't even clap!
Shocked murmurs immediately spread throughout the Great Hall.
"Slytherin? Did it just say Slytherin?"
"What the was the Sorting Hat thinking- putting a Beckett in Slytherin?"
"Oh, good Merlin, that girl's going to die in that House. She may as well be a muggle-born."
Scarlett honestly couldn't help but agree with the last statement she'd heard. She swallowed roughly and forced herself to drown out the voices while simultaneously ignoring the furious glares her new housemates shot her. Grinding her teeth tightly and feeling her muscles contract, she forced on a neutral, indifferent expression while gazing at the Sorting. McGonagall cleared her throat after the tense and rather awkward silence and resumed calling the next person up.
Still feeling many stares on her, Scarlett bit her bottom lip and fumbled with her fingers beneath the table. She resisted the strong urge to scowl. What the bloody hell was the Sorting Hat's problem? Scarlett had specifically asked it to put her in Gryffindor and had literally begged not to be in Slytherin. And what had the blasted hat done? It had put her in her dreaded House and now she must deal with housemates that looked as if they were resisting the urge to pull out their wands and hex her on the spot. Karina looked downright crestfallen and each time Scarlett would try to catch her eye, she would pointedly look away.
Her throat grew dry and she felt her eyes sting. Was this it? Was this how she was really going to spend the next seven years of her life? Scarlett exhaled quietly and honestly felt like crying. She didn't doubt one moment that right when the Sorting ended and that they escaped the professors' gazes, they would pounce on her to attack. Her stomach clenched tightly at the many stories her parents would tell her about students being constantly bullied by Slytherins- her own father being one of them for his muggle-born status. It was not a pretty sight. And Merlin's beard, she was a Slytherin, meaning they could attack her in the bloody common room.
A noise of absolute distraught almost escaped her throat. Scarlett swallowed down her worries and gripped the edges of her seat tightly, trying to breathe calmly through lungs that felt flattened. She almost jumped out of her skin when her table suddenly erupted with loud cheers and applause. Blinking in bewilderment and whipping around to see who was her new housemate, her eyes widened and a brilliant grin stretched across her lips at the sight of Daphne making her way towards her.
The pretty blond smiled jubilantly and grinned when many Slytherins stood to shake her hand and congratulate her. Scarlett ignored the stab of envy she felt at those gestures and instead beamed at her friend as she sat down next to her.
Daphne immediately turned to her. "Scarlett, this is amazing," she whispered excitedly. "Who knew we would end up in the same House?"
Scarlett mustered a weak smile, not wanting to crush her friend's spirit. "Yeah," she said.
However, Daphne proved to be a rather clever and sharp witch, seeing the way her excited smile was soon replaced with a gentle, reassuring one. "I know it must be hard for you," she whispered. "But, don't let them get to you because whatever they try to do, know that I'm here with you." She gave her a playful nudge. "Besides, you're not going to be miserable for seven years. Just give them time. They'll get over it soon."
Scarlett resisted the urge to scoff. I hope you're right.
The Sorting ended after a few minutes and Blaise Zabini, Theodore Nott, Pansy Parkinson, Vincent Crabbe, Gregory Goyle, Tracey Davis, Millicent Bulstrode, and Draco Malfoy were all sorted into Slytherin. Daphne groaned loudly and Scarlett cursed inwardly when they realized they would be housemates with Malfoy and his two cronies. Malfoy shot them both dirty looks as he sat down with his friends.
"Well, would you look at that," a fifth year muttered to his pal with a loathsome look at Davis. "Judging by her surname, I would bet you five galleons she's a mudblood."
"Could be a half-blood," his friend countered, though, he too wore a look of absolute disgust.
Scarlett gripped her fork tightly as she neatly tore pieces from her scrambled eggs. No one else seemed to have heard the two wizards except for her, but Scarlett honestly doubted they would care. Her insides burned with anger. So, this was Slytherin House? A bunch of arrogant, prejudiced toads who only cared about blood purity? She forced herself not to scowl with disgust because right now, she was one of them.
"So, Davis," the first wizard drawled, a tall teenage boy with brown hair and sharp green eyes. "I take it you're not a pureblood?" Scarlett, along with many others watched in fascination as Davis looked up to regard him. Scarlett felt a twinge of pity when she noticed just how nervous she looked with the attention of all Slytherins on her.
"N-no, I'm a half-blood," she responded quietly.
"What did I tell you, Marcus?" his friend, an equally tall wizard with jet-black hair and hazel eyes replied smugly. "Pass those galleons over."
Marcus shot his friend an indignant look. "Shut up, Graham," he said before turning back to Davis. "So, you're a half-blood, huh? Seeing how your surname is not one of a pureblood family at all, one of your parents must be a mudblood." His eyes narrowed shrewdly. Another wizard, sitting on the right side of Marcus with dark blond hair and blue eyes sighed in exasperation.
"Marc, have a bit of sympathy, she's literally a first-year," he said.
Scarlett silently agreed with the wizard and watched Davis almost worriedly.
"I… Er…" the girl stammered furiously. "Uh… yeah. My dad's a muggle-born." She said, ducking her head sheepishly.
Marcus glared at her in undisguised disgust. "I see," he said before turning away to disregard her as if she didn't even exist. Scarlett stared at him in barely concealed rage, her chocolate-brown eyes flaring with anger. She glimpsed the girls named Millicent Bulstrode and Pansy Parkinson whisper some things to Davis and much to her utter bewilderment, the three of them turned to look at her. Davis was one of curiosity, Bulstrode stared at her coldly, and Parkinson merely sneered at her as if she was a lowly cockroach.
Scarlett blinked. Did I do something?
"Those three over there-" Daphne whispered suddenly, prompting Scarlett to start. She was staring at the three wizards. "-are Adrian Pucey, Marcus Flint, and Graham Montague. They're in the Slytherin Quidditch Team and Flint's the captain. Nasty git, that one is. Montague is just as bad. Pucey, however, is all right. But that doesn't necessarily mean he won't be a jerk towards you. He just has more decency than those two."
Scarlett swallowed nervously. "Thanks for pointing that out," she said.
The two friends fell into a comfortable silence and Scarlett, having lost her appetite, poked at her food boredly. Her gaze kept flickering to those around her in wariness. Not many people were looking at her, but whenever they did, a look of disdain crossed their features before they abruptly looked away. She resisted the urge to sigh. About another ten minutes passed before Headmaster Albus Dumbledore dismissed them off to bed and the two Slytherin Prefects gathered the first-years. Although she was in a considerably hollow mood, Scarlett couldn't help but brighten in excitement at the prospect of seeing the Slytherin common room.
As Scarlett and the others followed the Prefects, she couldn't help but feel her spirits slowly fall. They were being led inside of the dungeons and she winced when the warm air suddenly turned icy cold and very thick. The torches on the wall flickered eerily in the darkness of the dungeons, casting dark shadows over the concrete floors. On instinct, her fingers searched for the familiar feeling of her larch, phoenix feather core wand.
They ended up stopping in front of a rather ancient-looking door with a serpent crest on it.
"Dragon Eye," the male Prefect said and once the door slid open and they filed in, Scarlett's eyes widened in astonishment at the sight of her common room.
The Slytherin common room was draped in elegant emerald green and silver banners and a thick, fuzzy emerald green rug blanketed the ground. A cozy fireplace was placed in the front of the room and another large serpent crest was planted above the fireplace with snake skulls decorating the fireplace sill. Two sets of stairs spiraled elegantly in the directions of left and right, where Scarlett guessed were the dormitories and an elegant chandelier hung from the ceiling. Her eyes brightened in excitement as long rectangular windows were placed on the stone walls and she spotted the lake's eerie green water and a few fish swam into sight. She exchanged a delighted look with Daphne. The common room was better than she thought.
"Welcome first-years," the male Prefect said, turning to regard them formally. "As you all already know, you are in the Slytherin common room where you'll be spending the majority of your time. If you had been paying attention, you'll know our password is Dragon Eye. We change it every week and if you give our password to someone outside of Slytherin, we'll know." His eyes sharpened at this.
"We're not like the other Houses," the female Prefect piped up. "We're Slytherin. We keep to ourselves and stick together, whatever the situation is. We're not like those idiotic Gryffindors who cause trouble for the dumbest of reasons." Her light brown eyes narrowed. "We always aim for the House Cup; thus, I expect each and every one of you to abide by the rules given and try your best to earn House Points. Our House was in possession of the House Cup for seven years in a row, you see. We don't plan on losing. Ever."
The male Prefect crossed his arms. "Your actions have dire consequences," he said. "We expect all of you to behave and to treat each other with respect. We won't tolerate foolish rivalry in our own ranks. If anyone has a problem with any of these rules, you will answer to me." He said and Scarlett immediately knew he wasn't the type of wizard someone simply messed with. She nodded obediently alongside the other first-years.
His gaze swept over them all. "Do I make myself clear?" he asked. They all nodded once again. "Good. The first-year dormitories are on this level. The one for the boys are in the left and the one for the girls are in the right. Professor Snape, our Head of House, will be here soon to discuss more rules and regulations. I suggest you all get used to the common room. But, do not ruin or break anything and whatever you touch goes back to its rightful place. Now, scram."
Scarlett and Daphne quickly ran over to the windows to gaze adoringly at the countless fish that swam by. Davis, Bulstrode, and Parkinson climbed the stairs to explore the upper areas. Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle took turns holding the snake skulls while Zabini and Nott simply sat on the armchairs. After a few minutes of exploring, the rest of Slytherin house filed in to head to their dormitories, including the Prefects. Professor Snape was nowhere to be seen and Scarlett suspected he was the type who was always late. After about twenty minutes of waiting around, their Head of House arrived.
Professor Snape was a tall, pale, and greasy-haired man with piercing black eyes and a hooked nose. His dark gaze swept over each and every one of them and Scarlett swallowed when his gaze settled on her last. Honestly, what was it with Slytherins and having an intimidating air around them?
"I take it the Prefects have already established the rules?" Snape asked, his voice smooth and calculating. Everyone nodded. "Then this makes my job easier. For starters, I will absolutely not tolerate any foolish behaviour in this House. You are all expected to behave maturely and to follow the rules without question. If you fail to do this, you will find yourself doing detention." For some odd reason, his gaze lingered on her when he spoke of detentions. Scarlett merely looked back at him.
"Do not get into any fights with the other Houses, for they are not worth your time. And for pity's sake, do not even think of wasting my time by trying to get me involved in pointless situations. If you have rivalries with someone, solve them yourself. Don't drag others into it and do not even think about making Slytherin lose house points, for that is the last thing we want." His gaze, once again, sauntered over to her. "Do I make myself understood?'
Scarlett nodded quickly, although slightly puzzled.
Snape nodded curtly. "Then you are all dismissed. I expect all of you to wake up at the required time tomorrow morning."
With those cheerful and heart-warming words, Snape turned around, his robes billowing behind him and wordlessly exited the Slytherin common room. The first-years exchanged glances amongst each other before shrugging it off and headed to their required dormitories. As Scarlett followed her dormmates into their shared room, she couldn't help but let out a small sigh.
This year was definitely going to be a long year.
So, what did you think? I know it was very long and for that, I apologize. Don't worry, though, the next chapters will definitely not be as long, unless something important is going on in that chapter. It may have seemed weird, but oh well. First chapters are always weird. xD
Once again, I hope you all enjoyed and please drop by a review! I love hearing your thoughts :)
~Blue