The Sorting Series: Dorothy Catalonia

Her family had been wizards on both sides for untold generations. There were even rumors that she was defended from the creators of the strange and powerful magics of the Kabbalah. And those few who had not come into wizarding power had always held positions of power and importance in the Muggle world. For years she had thought she would be attending Beuxbatons, if she didn't end up going to the family school in Girona. But then her grandfather had decided to quit the continent and move to England just before the start of the school year. There had been unsettling rumors, and her cousins the Malfoys were most uneasy.

And now she was following after some no-name mudblood who had some how managed to get accepted to the fine house of Slytherin, where her grandfather had assured her she would be sorted. The entire process seemed needlessly tedious, however she smiled demurely as she settled on the stool, and tried settle the filthy old hat on her head with a minimum of actual contact.

Well well, another one, the hat said.

Another what? She asked.

It's an unusual split. You're very loyal. Exceedingly loyal to your family in fact. I can see you would be quite willing to do anything for them.

Loyalty to your family is not a sin, she sneered.

No, not at all, the hat agreed. But one doesn't often see some one suited to both the Hufflepuff and Slytherin traditions.

Hufflepuff? I think not! She was shocked it'd even been suggested.

Are you sure? There is a great deal to be admired in those who are known for their loyalty. And Hufflepuffs never want for allies.

She considered this for a long moment, Would being part of this silly house change my ability to follow my own goals?

The hat considered this for a moment, No, probably not. Though you're quite well suited to Slytherin as well. Really, the choice is yours.

She considered it for a very long time, long enough that she could hear the other students in the hall shifting around and muttering to each other.

Alright, I've made up my mind, she said at last.

"Hufflepuff!" The hat shouted.

And Dorothy Catalonia smiled at the cheery faces around the table all decked in yellow. And she thought Like a wolf descending on the sheep in the fold.