Magic is all around us. It's in the air that we breathe, the ground we walk on, the very blood that pulses in our bodies. For us witches and wizards, it is our very essence. That is how I found myself on a train in another country at the beginning of the school year.

I was sitting in a compartment with my best friends, Stella Brown and Skylar Matthews. We were sharing with two other girls, Camille Hart and Kinley Jacobs. Cami had taken to ignoring us and fell asleep. Kinley, although more social than Cami, had her headphones in and I could hear a faint, techno beat. That left Stella, Skylar and I to talk amongst ourselves about the new year.

I looked out the window with wide eyes, watching trees and mountains flit by in the picturesque sunset. It was all peaches, roses, and light gold that lined that clouds and made them look vaguely like cotton candy. I was so excited that I could practically feel the energy rush through my veins like a crazy new drug.

"We're almost there!" Stella chirped happily. I glanced at her with a tinge of envy. The sun had perfectly illuminated her shoulder length, brown waves and caramel skin, making her teeth a stark white in contrast. I pushed the jealousy away though; Stella was too kind and caring to even consider being mad at.

Skylar let out a high-pitched squeal, checking the time. Her own long, black hair fell in front of her eyes, but didn't conceal the natural tan on her skin. She, too, sent a wave of green through me. Her slight Hispanic heritage gave her an exotic look that all the guys tripped over themselves for.

I glanced down at myself and frowned internally as I took stock. Pale skin dotted with freckles, thin lips, and red hair that looked like strands of pure copper in the light. I lacked the firm muscle either of my friends had, trading for squishy curves instead.

"Stop," ordered Skylar, already guessing what I was doing. I let out a frustrated sigh, but did as she said. "Anyways, we should be getting ready. We are almost there I think."

"Finally," Cami groaned, as if she hadn't slept the entire ride. "Someone needs to make sure the boys can't see through the glass while I change."

Ignoring the vanity in her tone, Stella piped up, "I'll do it." I shook my head, but smiled. She was always trying to do the right thing and be good to everyone, even utter nuisances like Cami.

The rest of us grabbed our travel bags from under the seats and rummaged through them. We all pulled out similar looking uniforms: white button-ups, black skirts, gray sweaters, knee-high socks, black robes lined with silky fabric. It wasn't the most flattering ensemble, but I couldn't complain.

"Are we allowed to do that?" Kinley asked pointing to the Converse I had just slid on. "I thought we had to wear plain black shoes."

"I'm hoping they let it slide," I admitted. "Honestly, we did just come from another country. They can't expect us to follow every single rule. Besides, they are quite comfortable."

"They'll be great for you to wear when you are leaving for being expelled," Cami retorted with a satisfied grin on her face.

I rolled my eyes and replied, "Nice one, did it take you all day to think of that? Or just the train ride here? I can't wait to hear more of your stimulating comebacks this year."

"Wren," hissed Stella in a warning tone. I sighed, but let it go, switching with her so that she could change. I wondered when the crest would appear on our sweaters and when we would receive our ties. If there was one redeeming quality about the uniform, it was the tie.

The train lurched to a sudden stop, almost sending us all sprawling into a pile, but we managed to keep ourselves upright. Barely. I could hear the whistling of the train that signaled its passengers were departing. "Time for us to face the music," I muttered, sliding my messenger bag onto my shoulder. I quickly tucked the book I had brought with me under my arm. There was no way I would leave my precious baby there.

Cami pushed her way through us all with a, "Ladies first," thrown over her shoulder.

"I swear she gets more charming every year," I commented to myself.

"Let's just hope we don't have to share a house with her," Kinley stated. "I pity Mitchell and Lance. I'm sure they are thrilled at the prospect of different arrangements this year."

I snorted, an amused expression playing on my features. We slowly shuffled into the line of other students that were making their way to the entrance. None of them paid us any attention. I guess we weren't that exotic after all.

I was so focused on trying to take in all my surroundings that I completely missed the last step when departing. I dropped my book, pin wheeling my arms comically before latching onto the first sturdy thing I could, which happened to be a set of crisp, new robes. I pulled the stranger down with me and we both let out a grunt on impact.

I winced at the newfound pain screaming from my tailbone before scrambling to my knees. I launched myself at my book, barely missing being trampled on by a group of younger kids. I straightened myself quickly, cradling the object to my chest. When I was out of harm's way, I flipped through it to make sure no lasting damage had been done. I let out a large sigh of relief when it still appeared good as new.

The stranger beside me let out a pained groan that finally caught my attention. I turned towards them with an apology on my lips. It quickly died when I beheld him. He was tall. Really tall. Towering well over six feet and carrying himself with a regal posture. He had messy hair so white it could have been snow. It fell into his cerulean eyes in a way that instantly dried my throat.

Despite his I-just-woke-up-like-this demeanor, his clothes were very neat and pressed, like he was going to a grand ball instead of school. I noticed, not being able to stop myself from the thrill of pleasure I felt, that he had broad shoulders and a trim, muscular frame. It was the kind every girl dreamed of being wrapped around them in an embrace.

His angelic features were quickly marred by an irritated expression. "Did the fall give you brain damage or do you just not know how to speak?"

I gaped at him, blinking incredulously. "No...? No, I just—"

"Don't waste your time with an apology, Weasley brat. I have heard them from your kind enough times to know how pathetic it is," he snapped, holding a palm up to stop me.

Woah, rude much? I shoved his arm down to his side. "Look here, pal, it was an accident. Believe me, if I was going to accost someone purely for attention, I would do it on someone more worthy of my time."

It was his turn to blink in surprise. "You…you're American?"

"Yes, hence the accent and the reason for my accident. Unlike you, some of us don't have a clue about our surroundings," I bit out. I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand just like a pissed-off cat.

"Incredible," he mused. "You are even more aggravating and ill-mannered than a Weasley. And here I thought it couldn't get any worse. Let me guess, you are muggle-born too, hm?"

Oh that was it. It was time for this kitty to bring out her claws. "Half-blood, not that it matters. Now, why don't you call Regina George? I'm sure she would like to know who stole her personality. Oh, and while you are at it, you might want to remove your head from your butt. The toxic fumes are going to your brain."

I heard an appalled gasp from behind me and winced. "Wren Dawson, I don't believe it! You know better than that!" scolded Stella, coming to stand next to me. "Stella Brown," she said smoothly, offering her hand to Mr. Pompous-Entitled-Peabrain. "Please excuse my friend. She is just a little cranky and tired from our long journey."

"Bromley Calloway, it is a pleasure," he replied in a silky tone, kissing the knuckles on her hand. I bristled.

"Why don't you keep those germ-infested lips away from my best friend, thanks," I growled at him. She was too sweet and good to get ensnared by his devilish charms.

"Wow, he must've peed in your Cheerios this morning, Dawson," Skylar joked, finally joining our group. "I haven't seen you this mad since they took House off of Netflix." She looked him up and down slowly before smirking. "Then again, he probably deserved it. By all means, continue. I am quite enjoying the show."

"Well, her manners are almost as atrocious as yours," Bromley drawled.

"That's it," I hissed. "Look here, buster, my dad is what you Brits would consider a muggle Auror. That means I could beat you to a bloody pulp without touching my wand once. So remember that the next time you insult my friends, or I swear, I will make stepping on Legos look like a prance through the meadow." I emphasized my point by jabbing my bony finger into his chest.

"Alright, easy there, Chuck Norris," Stella soothed. "Let's head inside for the Sorting Ceremony." She gently placed a hand on my shoulder, steering me away from the jerk.

I was irked to find that when I turned to glance back at him, he was grinning in amusement instead of peeing his pants in terror. Curse my lack of height. No one can be that intimidating when they are 5'2". He gave me a little wave and blew me a kiss. I quickly replied with an unsavory gesture that would have gotten me reprimanded by Stella had she seen.

Skylar poked me in the ribs, silently asking me what that was all about. Later, I mouthed, turning myself to join Stella in conversation. Bromley Calloway may not think I'm much of a threat now, but many smarter people had made the same mistake. I just hoped, for his own health and safety, he had been practicing his shielding charms.

I muttered under my breath the entire way to the castle. Weren't British boys supposed to be these charming, turn-girls-into-a-gooey-mess, gentlemen? If this is how they all were, I was going to demand a refund.

We arrived in the entrance hall just in time. A tall woman in emerald green robes and a pointed hat was standing above us on the landing of a large staircase. "Welcome first years and transfer students! We are so pleased to have you joining us this year at Hogwarts. My name is Minerva McGonagall. I will be your Headmistress and Transfiguration professor. We are about to enter the Great Hall where you will each be sorted into a Hogwarts house. Each house tries to earn points throughout the year to win the cup! Don't worry about your belongings; they will all be taken to your dormitories as soon as you are sorted. Now, please form a line and follow me. The Sorting Ceremony is about to begin."

We all trailed along behind her like lost ducklings. I had to force my jaw shut at the sights before me. The Great Hall was enormous, vast ceilings stretching way above our heads. Warm candles hovered above us to provide light. There were four long tables sprawled along the floor and one, smaller table slightly raised towards the back of the room. All of the professors were currently seated there giving pleasant smiles to all the students. McGonagall had us stop right before the steps leading up to the table. In the center was a golden dais on which rested an eagle. Below that was a worn, wooden stool that held a tattered, wrinkled, brown hat. I didn't know whether to be annoyed with myself or not; I mean, honestly, what did I expect? I was coming to live in a magical castle.

McGonagall made her way to the dais and cleared her throat, immediately garnering the attention of everyone in the room. "Welcome students to another marvelous year at Hogwarts," she began in her lilting voice. She paused as cheers went through the room. "We are so happy to welcome back our wonderful professors this year, and to celebrate the ones now joining us. I am sure you all recognize Mr. Harry Potter, who will be our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher and replacing me as the Head of Gryffindor House, and his wife, Ginerva Potter, who is taking over Madam Hooch's position as Flying Instructor and Deputy Headmistress. I am pleased to announce that this year, along with our first years, ten transfer students from the American wizarding school, Ilvermony, will be attending Hogwarts. I trust you all to give them a warm welcome and make them feel right at home. Now, without further ado, let the Sorting Ceremony begin!"

Cheers and applause echoed from all tables as peoples' faces lit up with excitement. Maybe we were exotic after all. "We shall begin with our transfer students. Mitchell Benson, would you join me up here please?"

Mitchell, one of my handsome peers, strode confidently to her and immediately sat down on the stool. I watched as the hat was placed on his unruly, straw-colored hair. It sprung to life and after a very slight pause rang out, "Hufflepuff!"

A table full of students with yellow ties and Honeybadger banners began to yell in delight. He grinned as he joined them, shaking hands with a few boys his age.

"Up next, Stella Brown," McGonagall declared, holding up a large parchment. I squeezed Stella's hand and she cautiously walked over, nervous excitement on her face. "Please take a seat dear."

The hat rested on her chocolate waves for a brief moment before concluding, "Hufflepuff!"

I cheered along with everyone else as her cheeks flushed and she joined Mitchell. She looked over at me, eyes sparkling. I gave her a thumbs up and a wink, reassuring her. She turned back to her table with a wide smile, introducing herself to her fellow classmates.

Dylan Copeland was next. The hat mulled over him for a second and then placed him in Gryffindor. The table cheered so loud I almost had to plug my ears. Then it was my turn.

"Wren Dawson," McGonagall trilled. I felt everyone's eyes burning the back of my skull as I made my way to her. I had never been so painfully aware that I was the center of attention as this moment. I perched on the stool, knees bouncing out of habit. She eyed me for a moment and I gave her a sheepish grin, willing my legs to be still. Carefully, the hat nestled onto my head.

"Hm…plenty of sass and drive, good courage, kind soul, very bright," the hat mused quietly. "Many wonderful options for you. Let's see, where to put you…better go with…Ravenclaw!"

I saw the table to the right of the center spring to life. Blue ties glinted and I saw an eagle, wings spread, screaming in delight on a banner above them. I felt something hot on my chest for a moment and glanced down. My sweater now adorned an elaborate crest and a blue and bronze striped tie hung from my neck.

People congratulated me from all directions the moment I sat at the table. I grinned, feeling as though I had just made 100 new friends all at once, which I supposed I had. I knew I was right where I belonged.

I watched the rest of the Sorting Ceremony, not surprised when Cami became a Slytherin. I was taken back, however, when the hat finally announced Skylar would join Stella in Hufflepuff. I had been sure she would be a Gryffindor. Then I thought about it more and it made sense. Beneath all of her feisty ways, she was a gushy, teddy bear who would gladly sacrifice herself if it would make people happy. A majority of the first years joined Hufflepuff, Slytherin and Gryffindor tied, and a handful came to Ravenclaw.

McGonagall announced the feast and with a clap of her hands, steaming plates of every dish I could possibly want appeared before me. I had no hesitation digging into the delicious food. I glanced around for my friends and spotted the one face I, most assuredly, did not want to see.

I gave Bromley the trademark sneer that Slytherins were famous for. I don't know what had rubbed me so badly about him, but I loathed him entirely. It almost ruined my appetite, in fact. He returned my sneer with a trademark grin of his own, winking in a way that sent a flush right down my body. So I decided to do the mature thing and stuck out my tongue before facing the other direction. Hopefully I wouldn't see much of his face these next few terms.

I know what you're thinking. Oh please, girl, this is a walking romantic cliché. You are probably right, but it feels a lot different when it is actually happening to you. There were times when I couldn't decide if I wanted to push him off a bridge, or kiss him until my knees gave out. Probably both, if I am being honest. And just like every other girly cliché, I was terrified at the strong feelings he was evoking from me.

For the most part, I was normally able to hide behind my books and television shows. Content to rage and cry about them, because in the end, they would continue on exactly how I expected. It saved me from a great deal of emotional damage…although my friends would disagree. Whatever the case, I was a nerdy introvert and I preferred it that way. I didn't need some suave Slytherin to sweep me off my feet and ride away with me into a fairytale sunset. I would prefer to keep my feet on the ground and head in a book until I decided to sweep myself off my feet. After all, I was American and an independent one at that.

After our welcome feast, students began to stand up and walk out of the Great Hall to their dorms. I had finished a while ago, but I hesitated. I had absolutely no idea where I was going. I stared helplessly, silently praying that someone would come rescue me. So much for being independent.

"Not so brave without your pack, huh?" a voice whispered in my ear. I whirled around to face Bromley who had his hands stuffed in his trouser pockets.

"I'm just fine without my pack, thank you very much. Unlike some Slytherins, I don't need any mindless meat bags following me around to make me feel cool." I glared at him, willing him to catch fire with my eyes. Then I quickly caught myself. If I wasn't careful, he really would catch fire and I would be on the next train home before I could utter the words, "I can explain."

"My, my, you are a fighter aren't you?" he cooed sarcastically.

I sighed, willing myself to channel my inner Stella. I needed to remain calm right now. "What do you want, or do you just enjoy making my life miserable?"

"Contrary to popular belief, we Slytherins don't have evil intentions all the time," he told me. "But…I think I will make an exception for you. I do so love watching you squirm."

I opened my mouth to make a scathing comment, but I was interrupted by a girl with blue-gray hair. "How about you go slink into the dungeon shadows where you belong, Calloway?" she said smugly.

"Oh Bones, you wound me," he taunted her. "Until we meet again," he said turning to me. He winked and then disappeared so fast I would have thought he apparated.

"Don't mind him," the girl assured, turning to face me. "Bromley Calloway is just a slimy git."

"I've noticed," I remarked with a small smile. "Thanks for saving me from his nefarious ways though. I'm—"

"Wren Dawson," she blurted, holding out a hand. "I know. My name is Isabelle Bones, Ravenclaw Prefect and defender of the underdogs."

"Pleasure to meet you," I told her, shaking her hand. "How did you know—"

She interrupted me again. "Your name? I have a pretty good memory. I heard it during the Sorting Ceremony."

"I'll say. Um, hey, do you mind showing me to the dorms? I don't really know where I am going," I admitted.

"No problem, what are friends for? We are, by the way. Friends, I mean, or we will be soon enough. We have the same room assignment."

"Oh, cool," I said, pleasantly surprised. I was genuinely beginning to like this girl. She was blunt, but in a good way.

"Follow me, and try not to get lost when Hogwarts blows your mind," she taunted. I laughed and trailed after.

She led me down a long, stone corridor lit by flaming torches held by invisible hands. Large, arching windows gave a glimpse of the night sky surrounding the castle. Various suits of armor lined the hallway, the sliver turning gold. I watched in pure amazement as ghosts flitted around, casually interacting with the students. Isabelle caught me, an amused expression on her face.

"We don't have those at Ilvermony," I explained, "but you are right. Hogwarts is blowing my mind for sure."

We continued on through a covered passageway that connected to the outside courtyard. I was mildly shocked when I didn't feel the night breeze on my skin. Magic must keep the air warm and the breeze outside, I mused. Finally, we came to a room full of staircases that swung random directions with no clear course. Isabelle had us hop on one turning towards the west.

When it finally came to a halt, scraping the landing, we hopped off. Isabelle waved at some of the many portraits adorning the walls as we walked by. We walked down another, long corridor before coming to a single set of stairs. It twisted up a tower that seemed to go on forever.

"Haven't you guys heard of elevators?" I mumbled under my breath.

"What?" Isabelle asked.

"Nothing," I responded. "It's a no-maj—I mean muggle thing."

"Oh, I see. Yeah, it is a bit of a pain to climb them everyday, but you get used to it," she shrugged.

"I need to work on my cardio," I puffed as we began to climb the stairs. I was already out of breath and we were only 20 steps up. We reached the top what felt like an eternity later and I was practically gasping. "I don't know if can do that again," I wheezed. "Man, I am out of shape."

Isabelle chuckled, but didn't reply. She strode over to a portrait of an old man with tufts of white hair going every direction. He was smiling jovially at everyone, greeting the older students by name. "Good evening, Ms. Bones," he greeted Isabelle.

"Hello, Ollivander," she answered, beaming. "It's nice to see you again."

"It is always a pleasure," he told her, "and who might this be?"

They both turned to acknowledge me at last. "Um…hi," I said, suddenly shy. "I'm Wren Dawson, one of the transfer students."

"Oh, yes! The Knight mentioned you. Welcome to Hogwarts, my dear," he addressed me. "I hope you enjoy your stay."

I thanked him politely. "Wait," I blurted. "I read somewhere that Ravenclaw Tower had to answer a riddle to get in. Don't we have to do that?"

"Quite right you are," Ollivander told me with a twinkle in his eye. "Are you ready Ms. Bones, Ms. Dawson?" We nodded and he began, "Feed me and I live, yet let me drink and I die. What am I?"

"A fire?" I stated quickly.

"Very good," he replied. "You may enter." With that, his portrait swung open and we hurried inside.

If I had been amazed with the Great Hall and the rest of the castle, I was basically drooling over my common room. The ceiling towered above us, decorated in twinkling constellations that seemed to move, dancing to and fro. The walls were of a delicate cream with climbing ivy tendrils and bronze molding. One side of the wall gaped open, revealing a large room piled high with books. In the center rested a marble statue of a woman, an eagle perched on her shoulder. That must be Rowena Ravenclaw, I thought.

Plush, blue velvet couches were scattered in no particular pattern around the common room. A few Ravenclaws had already sprawled themselves on them with large tomes. Next to each couch rested coffee tables holding gleaming lamps and even more stacks of books. A fireplace was next to them, already roaring cheerfully. Pillows were half-hazardly thrown around it so that "claws" could lounge around. On another side of the room were several easels with half-finished paintings and a beautiful, white, grand piano.

A few tables that looked like they had been commandeered from the library were placed in the center of the room, right under the stars. Ravenclaws were sitting in each of the chairs, scribbling furiously on parchments and holding what looked like a makeshift study group. Windows almost surrounded the entire room to let in more of the night sky.

"It's perfect!" I breathed in awe. "It has everything we could ever need!"

"Try not to look too impressed," Isabelle teased. "You haven't even seen the best part yet."

"There's more?" I joked back. She started walking towards a small, inconspicuous wooden door towards the back of the tower. She rapped on it three times and then opened it, stepping inside.

I proceeded after her and almost cried when I saw another, winding staircase. "Really?" I asked, exasperated. "More stairs? Are they trying to kill us, or just torture us to the brink of death?"

"You Americans are the laziest people I have ever met. Where is your sense of adventure?"

"Hidden way down deep underneath my sense of self-preservation," I groaned as I started to ascend them. We passed one door, similar to the door in the common room, before stopping at the second.

"Welcome to our dorm," Isabelle replied, swinging it open.

Once again, the ceiling loomed several feet into the air, only this time, instead of painted stars, it was made of glass to show the real ones. I lovingly made out several constellations before stopping to take in the rest of the room. There were four beds in each respective corner draped in gauzy blue curtains and thick, downy quilts of royal sapphire. Several plump, bronze pillows created a home-like scene.

Plush, cream carpet was beneath my feet, although I could see the years of wear along the wooden floor that it hid. Next to each bed was a tall, skinny window of stained glass, underneath which was a nightstand holding a small lamp. On the other side of the beds were large, mahogany wardrobes with several drawers to put my clothes.

"Well," said Isabelle, standing dead center, arms open wide. "What do you think?"

"I absolutely love it!" I squealed. "Can Hogwarts become my interior decorator?"

Her face was marred with confusion. I shook my head. "Another muggle thing?" she guessed and I nodded. "Well, why don't you get settled in? Our other two roommates should be coming along shortly. They both have boyfriends, so they need to snog themselves silly before getting a good night's rest."

I laughed but walked over to a bed sitting towards the northwest. My suitcases lay on it and I opened them up. I began to place my pajamas in the drawers along with some of my jeans and t-shirts. I carefully hung up my new uniforms and a few dresses.

"Do you guys ever have any dances or anything?" I asked.

"Dances?" replied a girl with a black pixie cut and purple eyes. "The only one we have is the Yule Ball, which hasn't happened since Harry Potter was in school."

"Well students dying tends to be an issue, Violet," remarked another girl who had curly brown hair and a blue headband. She was by far the most beautiful girl at Hogwarts. "Now be polite and introduce yourself to our new dorm mate," she scolded. "I'm Evelyn Hastings."

"Violet Wood," the short pixie replied. Her haircut suited her. I let out a shriek of surprise when Violet wrapped her skinny arms around my waist. "We are going to be the best of friends!" she gushed.

"Er…thanks," I hedged. "Um…Violet, I know they do things differently in Britain, but we in America aren't as…affectionate a lot of the time."

"Oh no, we are the same," Evelyn piped up. "Violet is just the odd duck."

"Ladies, we weren't going to show her our true selves until a few weeks in. Now you have gone and scared her away!" Isabelle said.

"Quite the opposite, I freaking love you guys," I reassured her. "You remind me of my girlfriends, or I guess mates, since I am in England."

"Actually, you're technically in Scotland," Evelyn reminded me, "but I give you credit for trying."

"Thanks Eves," I said, rolling my eyes. Oh yeah, I fit in already. "So who did I replace?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, this girl named Helga Glop. She was the absolute worst," commented Violet.

"I can't disagree," added Isabelle. "She was moody, conniving, and a snitch, and that's coming from a prefect! She really ought to have been in Slytherin."

"I know a girl like that," I said thinking of Cami. "She did end up in Slytherin."

"But all is right again now that you are with us," Violet chirped. "We will be the most formidable girls in the whole school."

"And the hottest!" Evelyn added. We all turned to stare at her. "What, you dolts know it's true. Actually, Wren, now that I am thinking about it…would you allow me the honor of giving you a Hogwarts makeover?"

"A Hogwarts makeover?" I asked uncertainly.

"Oh, Ev is the best!" squealed Violet. "She is responsible for my haircut now and Is' hair color."

I looked at all three of them. It wasn't hard to admit they would definitely turn heads, male and female. "Oh, okay! What the heck?" I shrugged.

All three instantly surrounded me, chattering at once. "I think I am going to do a curl and lengthening charm on your hair," Ev said to herself, playing with my red locks.

"You need just a bit more sass in your style," Isabelle stated. "Although the shoes are bloody brilliant."

"I have an everlasting eyeliner charm I can teach you!" Violet practically screamed in my ear. "And your skin is the perfect shade of ivory!"

I spent the next forty minutes being poked, prodded, and charmed from head to toe. When I lay in bed that night though, I had to admit I had never felt more beautiful. I gazed at the stars, dreaming about how my classes would go the next day and slowly drifted off to a blissful sleep.