Chapter 3

The Hogwarts Express

The next month passed quickly for Orion Black. July 31st had been a joint birthday celebration for the Blacks and the Longbottoms, proving how different Orion and Neville were. The majority of Neville's presents centered on his love of Herbology with a few poking fun at his clumsiness and forgetfulness, something that Neville was well aware of and took in stride as long as he was around people he knew extremely well. Orion's presents, on the other hand, had centered on his love for dueling, Quidditch and photography.

One of Orion's greatest fears had always been waking up and not remembering his family like he had when he was five. To ease the fear, Sirius and Remus started taking pictures and creating photo albums so Orion would always have something to look back at. As Orion got older, he started taking the pictures. It actually was quite handy when Sirius and Remus pranked each other and needed proof for the ideal blackmail opportunity. He wasn't obsessive with taking pictures anymore but he did like being able to grab the occasional candid shot. That was why he loved the specially made camera his father had given him for his birthday. It more portable than normal magical cameras which meant that Orion would be able to carry it around in his schoolbag without anyone else knowing.

As promised, Orion had stayed at the Longbottom's for the full moon although Orion and Neville had spent the majority of the time going through what they should and shouldn't bring to Hogwarts. They had also skimmed through their school books, especially Potions since Orion had revealed how charming Professor Snape was. Potions wasn't a subject Neville enjoyed which meant having a teacher like Snape would make it all the more unbearable.

In his remaining free time, Orion had managed to nearly finish the third year material which meant he would be able to begin the fourth year material while at Hogwarts. He wouldn't be able to go at his normal pace but some progress was better than none at all. For the first few years at Hogwarts, theory was emphasized especially in Defense Against the Dark Arts. It was believed that a student needed to understand the background of everything before attempting the spells. Orion had finally reached the point where spells, jinxes and curses were focused on. He wasn't about to stop now.

The final day of August had arrived and Orion was once again repacking his trunk while his owl, Hedwig, watched from her self proclaimed perch on Orion's headboard. It hadn't taken long for Orion to accept that Hedwig had a Gryffindorish personality. She was very strong willed and extremely proud. Orion didn't know if she could really understand him but he confided in her nonetheless. Hedwig was a good listener and always seemed to give her opinion whether it was an encouraging hoot, an annoyed bristle of her feathers, a cautious blink, or an affectionate nip. To Orion, Hedwig wasn't just a pet. She was a friend.

A quick knock on the doorframe was the only warning Orion had before Sirius entered. "Packing again, Ori?" Sirius asked in amusement as he sat down on Orion's bed. "You do realize we can send you anything you forget, right?"

Orion nodded as he double checked the books he had packed. He had his first year books for classes and homework, his third year books to finish up, his fourth year books to being, and the extra books Remus had told him to begin reading. Luckily they were shrunk so they didn't take up all of his trunk space. "I don't know how to explain it, Dad," Orion said with a shrug. "I just feel like I'm missing something, something that I'll need."

Sirius glanced into Orion's trunk thoughtfully for a long moment. "Clothes…check, camera…check, film…check, books…too many of those, potions supplies…yuck, quills…check, parchment…check, ink…check, photo books…check, owl treats…check, spending money…check, wand…check, wand holster…check, school bag…check…Where are your journals, Ori?" Sirius asked as his eyes met Orion's. "You use them more than your text books."

Orion gasped as he hurried over to his desk and began looking through his drawers. He had a journal for every subject where he kept notes and useful reminders for everything Remus had taught him. He quickly found them in the middle drawer and immediately packed them in his trunk. "See?" Orion said with a grin. "I knew I was forgetting something."

Sirius returned the grin and ruffled Orion's hair. "Since you are now packed…again, how about spending some time with your dear ol' Dad until I have to go to work?" he offered.

Orion stared at his father in silence. Even though the comments about Orion staying home and stopped, Orion knew that the desire was still there. "It's going to be okay, Dad," he said with a reassuring smile. "I'll send you loads of letters. Besides, you may now be able to go out without having to worry about me."

"Orion," Sirius warned. "We discussed this—"

"—no," Orion interrupted. "You tried to convince yourself that you couldn't handle seeing anyone because of your responsibilities. Dad, you've given up so much for me. If you hadn't adopted me, I know you would probably be married with children of your own—"

"—don't you even think that, Ori," Sirius said quickly as he pulled Orion into a fierce embrace. "If I hadn't adopted you I would probably be a bloody mess. I know Moony has told you plenty of stories about how I was before I became your father."

Orion nodded as he returned the embrace. The Marauder Chronicles had been the most commonly used bedtime stories when Orion had been younger. Remus had always stuck some moral into the story because of something stupid Sirius had done. 'Always think before you act', 'never judge a book by its cover' and 'never test anything without having an antidote on hand' were the most used lessons.

It was clear that each Black had their own fears about how life would change after tomorrow. Orion wanted his father to be like any other single man while Sirius wanted more time with his son. For six years the Black household had fallen into a routine that would now be shattered. It was actually quite frightening if you thought about it. At least Dad will have Uncle Remus here to help him out and I'll have Neville, Cedric, Fred and George to help me out at Hogwarts.

The entire household was up extremely early the following morning. Orion had his trunk and Hedwig's cage down by the front door before the clock struck eight. Hedwig was surprisingly perched on Orion's shoulder, her golden eyes glaring at the cage she would have to be confined in for the long journey by train to Hogwarts. Orion had heard stories about the Hogwarts Express from Bill and Charlie Weasley. They had told him about the passageway magically hidden between platforms nine and ten at Kings Cross Station. Orion could barely hold in his excitement at the thought of actually being able to see it with his own eyes.

The clock had just begun to strike ten when the flames in the fireplace roared to life and turned green before Cedric Diggory stepped out with his trunk by his side. The tall, brown haired, grey eyed boy would be entering his third year even though his fourteenth birthday was next month. At Hogwarts, a student had to be eleven before September first in order to enter. Even though Cedric was almost three years older than Orion, they were only two years apart in schooling.

"Why hello there, Cedric," Remus said cheerfully as he shook Cedric's hand. "I trust you've already said goodbye to your parents?"

Cedric nodded. "Words were said, tears were shed," he said nonchalantly. "You know the drill, Mr. Lupin."

Remus chuckled. "All too well," he said. "We've had quite a bit of that here ever since Orion got his letter."

Cedric's gaze shifted to Orion. "Don't tell me you're scared of going, little brother," he said with a grin. "You've been wanting this for years."

Orion glared at Cedric playfully. "I'm not the one that's been shedding tears, big brother," he shot back. "Moony's talking about my dad."

Cedric smirked as he ruffled Orion's hair. "Of course, Ori," he said sympathetically. "How silly of me to think anything different."

Orion enfolded his arms across his chest as his eyes narrowed. "You are an annoying git, did you know that?" he asked.

Cedric smiled proudly. "Why yes I do but thanks for pointing it out," he said. "Now, who is this lovely little bird on your shoulder?"

Hedwig puffed out her chest proudly causing everyone to laugh. Orion introduced his owl and wasn't surprised when she flew to Cedric's shoulder and affectionately nipped his ear. She had done the same to Neville. The topic quickly changed to Quidditch until Sirius arrived from work to take them to the train station a few minutes later. It was a quick twenty minute walk which was made easier when Sirius shrunk Orion's and Cedric's trunks. Hedwig in her cage was really the only item that needed to be carried.

The walk was quiet one since nothing could be said about the magical world that would draw the attention of the non-magical people around them. They reached King's Cross at half past ten and immediately made their way towards platforms nine and ten. Orion was nearly bouncing with excitement as Cedric walked towards the dividing barrier between the platforms and vanished into the solid wall.

A hand rested on Orion's shoulder. "Come on, kiddo," Sirius said with a grin. "I'll go with you."

Orion nodded and started walking towards the barrier. He was trapped between excitement and nervousness. He had never walked through a wall before and had to wonder of he would feel anything. He doubted it would hurt since so many people walked through it without complaint every year. Closing his eyes, Orion continued walking, waiting for some sort of sensation to alert him that he had walked through the barrier but it never came. The hand on his shoulder squeezed gently causing Orion to open his eyes and see a scarlet steam engine waiting next to a platform packed with people. Over his head there was a sign that read 'Hogwarts' Express, eleven o'clock'. Orion grinned. This is bloody brilliant.

Remus followed them through the barrier and in no time they were walking through the chattering crowd towards the train. Smoke from the engine rose into the air while owls of every type hooted to one another. Orion saw Cedric entering the train and hurried to follow. One of the first things Cedric had told Orion was arriving early to secure a compartment was the best way to avoid spending a long train ride with unwanted company.

"Orion!"

Orion turned to see Neville running towards him. "Hey Neville!" he said as he glanced around. "Where are your parents?"

"Left already," Neville said as he grabbed Orion's arm and ushered him into the train. "Mum had to work and Dad had a meeting with someone at the Ministry. I've already found a compartment right in the middle of the train. Cedric said that was the best place, right?"

Orion nodded and followed Neville to the compartment which happened to be next to the one that Cedric picked out. "Hello neighbors," Cedric said cheerfully. "Now, I expect you two to behave or I may have to file a complaint."

"Practice what you preach, big brother," Orion said dryly before entering the compartment with Sirius and Remus following him. As Orion carefully set Hedwig down, Sirius enlarged the trunks and tucked Orion's away in the corner of the compartment before leaving with Cedric's.

Remus took the opportunity to quickly pull Orion into a fierce embrace. "You take care of yourself, cub, and remember what I told you," he said softly. "Just because we don't get along with the Potters doesn't mean you can't be friendly to Hayden. He's probably going to need people who will treat him like a normal person and not a celebrity."

"I'll try, Moony," Orion said as he returned the embrace. He knew that Remus had a point but he wasn't about to abandon his current friends to hang around with the-boy-who-lived. He would try to keep his dislike of the Potters under control but he wouldn't promise to any more than that.

Sirius re-entered the compartment and pulled Orion into another embrace the moment Remus let go. "I'm always here if you need me, kiddo," he said sincerely. "Have fun and remember there's more to Hogwarts than books."

Orion nodded as he wrapped his arms around his father. For some reason he couldn't think of anything to say as he felt his eyes begin to sting. It was one thing to know that you would be leaving your father and uncle but another to actually do it. Orion wasn't sure he wanted to let go now. Moony and Padfoot had always been there to console after a nightmare or when Orion had become too frustrated with his lessons. Now there would be no one since no one would really understand the quirks that made Orion who he was.

"I love you Dad," Orion whispered causing Sirius to let out a shaky breath.

"Back at you, Ori," Sirius said sincerely. "Always and forever."

Orion watched as Sirius and Remus left the platform just as a family of redheads arrived. He quickly noticed the identical twins amongst the group and smiled. The Weasleys had arrived. Orion couldn't wait to find out what Fred and George had planned for this year. At least I know I don't have to worry about boredom. Orion was about to go greet them when he saw another family come through the barrier.

The Potters.

Orion sat down across from Neville, trying to hold back a number of choice words that entered his head. No matter how hard he tried, Orion couldn't ignore the anger he felt towards the Potter family for what they had done to his father. Orion didn't know all the details but he knew that James Potter had said some rather hurtful words the day he took his family into seclusion, words that still caused moments of self doubt for Sirius.

"So," Neville began uncomfortably, "how about a game of Exploding Snap? Or maybe we should study up some more for Potions…just in case Professor Snape picks on us."

Orion smiled as he rose to his feet and went over to his trunk. Perhaps it hadn't been a good idea to warn Neville. As carefully as possible, Orion pulled his potions book and his potions journal out of his trunk only to jump as the compartment door opened. Stumbling, Orion turned around to see a girl with bushy brown hair and rather large front teeth standing in the doorway. Her gaze shifted from Neville to Orion as she smiled nervously.

"Do you mind if I sit with you?" the girl asked quickly.

Orion glanced at Neville before returning his gaze to the girl. "Not at all," he said as he set his book and journal down before moving to her side and helping her carry her trunk into the compartment. Neville quickly joined them and together they were able to stuff it into the far corner. "I'm Orion Black," he added then gestured at Neville, "and that's Neville Longbottom."

"Please to meet you," the girl said quickly as she sat down by the window. "I'm Hermione Granger. Are you parents magical?"

"My entire family is magical," Neville said quietly as he sat down across from Hermione.

"My Dad and my uncle are magical," Orion said as he sat down beside Neville. "I take it you're Muggle born."

Hermione nodded as a smile appeared on her face. "Nobody in my family's magic at all, it was ever such a surprise when I got my letter, but I was ever so pleased, of course, I mean, it's the very best school of witchcraft there is, I've heard — I've learned all our course books by heart, of course, I just hope it will be enough," she said in one breath.

Orion and Neville shared a glance. They hadn't gone that far and doubted anyone would appreciate someone who did. "Hermione, I can understand you're excited but you really should calm down," Orion said carefully. "There are a few things about the wizarding world that aren't really talked about. You see, some people don't approve of Muggle-borns. How much do you know about Voldemort?"

Hermione stared at Orion guardedly. "Just what I've read in Modern Magical History and The Rise and Fall of the Dark Arts and Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth Century," she said. "I know that You-Know-Who believed Muggle-borns to be unworthy of entering the wizarding world and many of the old magical families agreed with him."

"That's about it in a nut shell," Orion agreed as the whistle blew and the train began to move. "I know you want to prove yourself, Hermione. I just think you should be cautious so you don't come off as a know-it-all. Not too many purebloods would accept a Muggle-born knowing more about their world than they do."

Hermione rubbed her hands together nervously as her gaze fell. "So you're saying I should act dumb?" she asked.

"Not at all!" Orion protested instantly. "Knowledge is a good thing to have, you just don't have to advertise it all the time, you know?"

"Orion's a brain too, Hermione," Neville added earning a glare from Orion. "You are and you know it, Ori. Who else would already have journals of notes to help you remember everything you've read on every subject?"

"You do?" Hermione asked eagerly, her nervousness instantly forgotten. "Maybe we can share notes! It would be rather interesting to see everything from your point of view, Orion!"

Orion shrugged helplessly before collecting his Potions book and journal. Rome wasn't built in a day. "We were just going to review some Potions fundamentals if you want to join us," he offered. "Professor Snape isn't the most patient of teachers, especially towards first years."

"How do you know the teachers already?" asked Hermione.

Orion explained the best he could without revealing information Hermione really didn't need to know. The majority of the wizarding world feared werewolves and certainly didn't approve of a child living with one. The only reason no one said anything about Remus was because the famous Auror Sirius Black vouched for him. Hermione also didn't need to know just how close Orion was to the Headmaster. In fact, no one needed to know about that.

Meeting someone who already had such a knowledge of Hogwarts was all Hermione needed to ask question after question about the school. They talked about classes, the teachers, the castle, the dorms, the library, the houses and the sorting although Orion refused to tell Hermione and Neville what the sorting entailed. "It's not anything dangerous or scary," Orion said reassuringly. "They just want to make sure you're with people who share similar qualities."

The train was well out of London now, leaving fields of full of cows and sheep as the scenery. Before another topic could begin, the compartment door opened again to reveal identical red haired twins. "Orion!" one of them exclaimed happily. "We've been looking for you!"

"At first we thought you had missed the train," added the other. "I mean, what other explanation could there be for you not finding your partners in crime?"

Orion grinned then turned his attention to his year mates. "Hermione, Neville, say hello to Fred and George Weasley," he said. "They're third years in Gryffindor and are well known for their pranks focused on their brother, Percy (a fifth year Gryffindor), and the Slytherin house."

Fred and George bowed appreciatively. "Thank you, thank you," said George. "Now, if you'll excuse us—"

"—we need to find a clever way to send our dear mother a toilet seat and to deflate our dear brother's head," finished Fred. "Tah tah!"

Orion laughed as the Weasleys twins left. It wasn't long before Cedric checked in with a few of his friends. Neville and Hermione were surprisingly quiet throughout the visit and until a smiling, dimpled woman arrived at half past twelve with a cart filled with treats. "Anything off the cart, dears?" she asked.

Hermione declined the offer while Orion and Neville jumped to their feet and hurried to the cart in the corridor. Orion grabbed a few Chocolate Frogs, Pumpkin Pasties and Cauldron Cakes while Neville selected a box of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans and a few Licorice Wands. They pain the woman the amount owed and reentered their compartment.

"Not hungry, Hermione?" Neville asked curiously.

"My parents are dentists," Hermione answered as she opened Orion's Potions journal and started to flip through it. "I've never been able to handle a lot of sugar."

Orion and Neville shared a glance before shrugging their shoulders. How could you be a kid and not like a lot of sugar? It was one of the unwritten rules, at least according to Sirius. Oh well. Finding no point to argue, Orion unwrapped a Chocolate Frog, grabbed the charmed frog shaped piece of chocolate before it could jump away and ate it. Out of the corner of his eye, Orion noticed that Hermione was staring at him curiously over the top of his journal.

"Do you want us to explain wizarding candy to you?" asked Orion. "We're used to it but I suppose it can seem strange to a Muggle-born." Hermione nodded as she set the journal down. "Okay, this is a Chocolate Frog," he said as he handed over an unwrapped one. "Inside there's a charmed chocolate frog and a card with a famous witch or wizard on it." Orion handed over the card from his opened Chocolate Frog and noticed that he had gotten Albus Dumbledore.

Hermione's eyes widened as she saw the image of a man's face with half-moon glasses, had a long, crooked nose, and flowing silver hair. It was Albus Dumbledore. "He moves!" she exclaimed as Dumbledore smiled at her.

"Of course he moves," Neville said as he popped a Bertie Bott Bean in his mouth and earned a jab in the ribs from Orion.

Hermione flipped the card over and quickly read everything written on the small card. "Oh, this is so exciting!" she exclaimed.

"You can keep it if you want," Orion offered. "I already have four of him." Hermione smiled appreciatively and handed back the unopened Chocolate Frog. "The Pumpkin Pasties are pretty self explanatory," Orion continued as he handed over one of the pasties. "You'll find that pumpkin is used a lot in the wizarding world. Pumpkin juice will be served tonight and is really good. It sort of tastes like pumpkin pie." Hermione handed the treat back and Orion handed her a Cauldron Cake. "Cauldron Cakes are also self explanatory. They're just shaped like a Cauldron."

When Hermione handed the cake back, her gaze shifted Orion's forehead. "Not to be rude or anything," she began uncertainly, "but your scar—"

Orion subconsciously covered his scar with his fringe. "It's unusual, I know," he said with a shrug. "I've had it for as long as I can remember."

Hermione accepted the explanation or lack thereof and turned to Neville. "Well," Neville said uncomfortably before handing over the box of the Bertie Bott's Beans he had been eating, "those are Bertie Blott's Every Flavor Beans and they do mean every flavor." Hermione's eyes widened. "There's the traditional flavors like chocolate and peppermint and marmalade then you can get spinach and liver and tripe."

Hermione cringed as she handed the box back. "That's disgusting," she said. "How can you eat them?"

"After a while you learn which ones to avoid," Neville said with a grin and handed over one of his Licorice Wands. "The Licorice Wands are basically what the name says. Licorice shaped like a wand. The red wands are certainly better than the black."

Hermione handed the wand back with a smile on her face. "Thanks," she said. "I really appreciate it."

A comfortable silence filled the room as the countryside consisted more of wild fields rather than grazed land. There were also woods, twisting rivers and dark green hills. Soon the topic of sorting was brought up again but this time it was what house they would be sorted into. Neville was certain he would be sorted into Hufflepuff even though he wanted to be in Gryffindor like his parents. Hermione was torn between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. Orion preferred Gryffindor but wouldn't have any complaints about being sorted into Hufflepuff since he would be with his 'older brother'.

Neville then brought up the latest news that someone had broken into Gringotts but didn't steal anything. Apparently, the desired vault had already been emptied. That struck Orion as odd. It was almost like the owner of the vault had expected the robbery. What could have been hidden inside that even Gringotts wasn't secure enough to protect it?

Before long, darkness started to fall and the three occupants changed into their long black robes. As they looked at each other, Orion couldn't deny the multiplying butterflies in his stomach. Soon they would be at Hogwarts and soon they would be sorted into their houses. What if he was sorted into Slytherin? Dad would never forgive me. He's worked so hard separating himself from his Slytherin family and the darkness that surrounds them.

A voice echoed through the train: "We will be reaching Hogwarts in five minutes time. Please leave you luggage on the train, it will be taken to the school separately."

Neville started fidgeting nervously as Orion quickly returned his Potions book and journal to his trunk along with the leftover sweets. With a final glance, Neville and Hermione followed Orion out into the corridor where everyone else was already standing. The train began to slow and Orion was certain he was going to be sick. Why did he have to eat so many sweets when he knew this was coming? Once again knowing was absolutely nothing like and actually experiencing.

The train finally stopped and the pushing began. Orion felt two sets of hands grip onto his robe as they reached the door and the tiny dark platform. The cold night air hit him like a cold shower, instantly snapping his mind to attention. A lantern came bobbing over their heads as a familiar voice deafened all of the chatter. "Firs' years! Firs' years over here!"

Orion instantly followed the voice, taking Neville and Hermione along for the ride. Rubeus Hagrid was the Keeper of Keys at Hogwarts who also happened to be larger than any man Orion knew. Hagrid's face was almost completely hidden by a long, shaggy main of hair and a wild beard. The only feature on his face that could be seen was his eyes that glinted like black beetles. Hagrid was probably one of the most misunderstood members of the Hogwarts staff. The man wasn't one of the smartest but he was certainly one of the friendliest.

"Firs' years this way!" Hagrid repeated loudly then noticed Orion. "Hello, Orion! Hello Neville! C'mon, follow me—any more firs' years? Mind yer step, now! Firs' years follow me!"

Orion, Neville and Hermione joined the other first years in carefully following Hagrid down a steep and narrow path. The only source of light was Hagrid's lantern. No one spoke as people slipped and stumbled into each other.

"Yeh'll get yer firs' sight o' Hogwarts in a sec," Hagrid called over his shoulder, "jus' round this bend here."

Everyone let out a loud 'oooh!' as the narrow path opened suddenly onto the edge of a great black lake. On top of a high mountain on the other side was a vast castle with many turrets and towers, its windows sparkling in the starry sky.

"No more'n four to a boat!" Hagrid called out as he motioned to the fleet of little boats sitting in the water by the shore. Orion, Neville and Hermione moved to one of the first boats with a red haired girl following them. Orion thought he recognized her but couldn't place where he could have seen her before. "Everyone in?" shouted Hagrid before stepping into his own boat. "Right then—FORWARD!"

The fleet of boats started to move forward, gliding across the lake. Everyone remained silent, staring at their final destination. Orion glanced over at Neville who was nearly shaking and over his shoulder at Hermione who was actually speechless.

"Heads down!" Hagrid yelled as the first group of boats reached the cliff. Everyone bowed their heads as the boats carried them through a curtain of ivy hiding a wide open in the face of the cliff. They were carried through a dark tunnel until they reached some sort of underground harbor and their boats came to a stop against the rocky shore. Hagrid led the way up a passageway in the rock, coming out at last onto smooth, damp grass in the shadow of the castle. They walked up a fight of stone steps only to stop in front of a huge, oak door.

"Everyone here?" Hagrid asked. Receiving a few shaky nods, Hagrid raised his large fist and knocked three times on the door.

Almost immediately the door swung open to reveal a tall, black-haired witch in emerald green robes. Her face was stern, her posture was stiff. She certainly looked like someone you didn't want to cross but Orion couldn't stop himself from smiling. He knew the real Professor Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress, Head of Gryffindor House and Transfiguration teacher. She was incredibly strict in class but she also had a compassionate side that many rarely saw.

"The firs' years, Professor McGonagall," Hagrid said.

"Thank you, Hagrid," McGonagall said with a nod. "I will take it from here." She pulled the door wide and stepped aside so all of the students could file in.

The Entrance Hall was so big that an entire house could fit inside it. Flaming torches lit the stone walls, the ceiling was too high to even make out and there was an immaculate marble staircase facing them that led to the upper floors. The students quietly followed Professor McGonagall across the stone floor, the sounds of muffled voices could be heard from a doorway to the right which Orion knew led to the Great Hall.

Professor McGonagall led the first years into small, empty chamber next to the entrance to the Great Hall and waited as they crowded in. "Welcome to Hogwarts," she announced. "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 something like your family within Hogwarts. You will have classes with the rest of your house, sleep in your house dormitory, and spend free time in your house common room.

"The four houses are called Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Each house has its own noble history and each has produced outstanding witches and wizards. While you are 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 will be a credit to whichever house becomes yours.

"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 we are ready for you. Please wait quietly."

Professor McGonagall left the chamber and everyone instantly tried to straight up their robes and hair.

"How exactly do they sort us into houses?" a quiet voice asked from behind Orion.

Orion looked over his shoulder and froze. Standing behind him was Hayden Potter. He was about a head shorter than Orion with extremely messy dark hair and a pair of black framed glasses somewhat blocking his hazel eyes. He did look exactly like the pictures Orion's father and uncle had of a younger James Potter.

"Some sort of test, I think," a tall red haired boy with a large nose said. "Fred said it hurts a lot, but I think he was joking."

Orion let out a slow breath as he turned his gaze away. The redhead was clearly a Weasley…Ronald, if Orion remembered correctly, the sixth and final son for the Weasleys. Only a daughter remained at home. Glancing around, Orion noticed that several people actually believed Ron could be right and bit back the urge to correct him. Fred was joking and most likely found it hilarious that Ron was actually considering that the teachers at Hogwarts would even consider forcing first year students to face something that would endanger them.

Several people screamed as about twenty pearly-white and slightly transparent ghosts streamed through the back wall and gliding across the room arguing with each other. The ghost that looked like a fat little monk spoke first. "Forgive and forget, I say, we ought to give him a second chance—"

"My dear Friar, haven't we given Peeves all the chances he deserves?" a ghost wearing a ruff and tights interrupted. "He gives us all a bad name and you know, he's not really even a ghost—I say, what are you all doing here?"

Orion smiled at the ghost known as Nearly Headless Nick. "We're waiting to be sorted, Sir Nicholas," he said earning many incredulous stares.

The ghost returned the smile. "Is that so?" he asked. "Well, good luck to all of you! I hope to see you in Gryffindor."

"And I hope to see you in Hufflepuff!" said the Friar. "My old house, you know."

"Move along now," Professor McGonagall said sharply as she stepped into the room. "The Sorting Ceremony's about to start." One by one, the ghosts floated through the opposite wall. "Now, form a line everyone and follow me."

Letting out a shaky breath, Orion got in line behind Hermione with Neville right behind him. They walked out of the chamber, back across the hall and through a pair of double doors into the Great Hall. Orion kept his gaze forward but noticed that everyone else was looking around. The Great Hall was lit by thousands and thousands of candles floating in midair over four long tables that were nearly full with students. On the tables were glittering golden plates and goblets just waiting to be filled with food. The ceiling was a velvety black, dotted with stars since it was charmed to look like the sky outside.

At the front of the hall was another long table where the teachers were sitting. Orion instantly noticed Professor Dumbledore sitting in the center. It took everyone ounce of self control for Orion not to wave at his honorary Grandfather and simply follow Professor McGonagall. They finally came to a halt in front of the teacher's table, facing the other students. Orion instantly picked out Cedric at the Hufflepuff table and the twins at the Gryffindor table.

Professor McGonagall set a four-legged stool in front of the first years then set a pointed wizard's hat on top of the stool. The hat was patched, frayed and extremely dirty. Orion waited patiently for a few seconds until the hat twitched. 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 Hufflepuffs 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!"

The entire hall burst into applause as the hat finished its song. It bowed to each of the four tables and then became still once again. All of the first years around Orion seemed to relax at the realization that there would be no troll to deal with.

Professor McGonagall stepped forward with a long roll of parchment in her hands. "When I call your name, you will put on the hat and sit on the stool to be sorted," she said. "Abbot, Hannah!"

A pink-faced girl with blond pigtails staggered out of the line, put on the hat that fell over her eyes and sat down. There was a moment's pause before the hat shouted: "Hufflepuff!" Cedric's table cheered and clapped as Hannah set the hat down on the stool and hurried over to the Hufflepuff table.

"Black, Orion!" Professor McGonagall said over the noise.

The entire hall quickly fell silent as Orion cautiously stepped out of line, approached the stool, put the hat on and sat down. The hat blocked his line of sight which was probably a good thing. Orion didn't think he would be able to handle seeing everyone staring at him.

"Hmmm," a voice said in his ear. "Interesting, very interesting. I see courage, loyalty, a good mind, the desire to learn, and secrets, plenty of secrets, even some hidden from yourself. I've never seen such a well balanced mind, Mr. Black. I see you wish to be in Hufflepuff or Gryffindor. Very good choices for you. Ravenclaw would quench your thirst for books but I see you wish to keep your knowledge a secret. Slytherin is certainly out of the question. Not many would request Hufflepuff as their house but I believe you would do best in—Gryffindor!"

The last word was shouted to the entire hall. Orion pulled off the hat as the Gryffindor table erupted in cheers. The entire Quidditch team was pounding on the table as the Weasley twins were shouting, "We've got Orion! We've got Orion!" Orion set the hat down on the stool and hurried over to his house table. Everyone was slapping him on the back. When the commotion finally calmed down, Orion sat down and turned towards the students who still needed to be sorted. He could see the High Table completely now and noticed Hagrid, tiny Professor Flitwick, Professor Sprout, and Professor Snape but he didn't recognize the thin, nervous man wearing a large purple turban beside Snape. Must be the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher.

Susan Bones, the red-haired girl Orion had recognized was sorted into Hufflepuff. Terry Boot was the first student sorted into Ravenclaw followed by Mandy Brocklehurst. Lavender Brown was sorted into Gryffindor, Millicent Bulstrode became a Slytherin, Vincent Crabbe also joined Slytherin, Justin Finch-Fletchley went to Hufflepuff, Seamus Finnigan was sorted into Gryffindor, and then it was Hermione's turn. Orion watched as she hurried to the stool, put on the hat and sat down. It was only a moment before the hat proclaimed her a Gryffindor.

Hermione hurried to the Gryffindor table, smiling at Orion. Orion smiled back and moved so he could sit beside her. It wasn't long before Neville was also sorted into Gryffindor, much to his and Orion's relief. Orion's attention was diverted when Draco Malfoy was sorted into Slytherins with his frends, Crabbe and Gregory Goyle. Draco had a pale, pointed face and looked exactly like his father. The Malfoys were one of the pureblood families that escaped prosecution for their work with Voldemort. They were also a family that despised Muggles and Muggle-borns along with being related to the Blacks by marriage.

It was becoming hard to concentrate on the sorting. Orion's stomach was rumbling in hunger and there weren't many people left to sort. Several were sorted into Slytherin, twin girls were separated, one going into Ravenclaw and the other sorted into Gryffindor. Perks was sorted into Ravenclaw and then Hayden Potter was called. Whispers filled the hall as everyone moved in their seats for a better look. It seemed that only Orion and Neville had no interest at staring at the-boy-who-lived.

Hayden's sorting wasn't necessarily long but it was longer than most. When the hat shouted "Gryffindor", the Gryffindor table once again erupted in cheers. Hayden shakily pulled off the hat and joined his new house. Orion didn't know what to think. Perhaps this was why Remus warned him about giving Hayden Potter a chance. Sirius Black and James Potter had been in Gryffindor. There certainly was a possibility that their children would also be in Gryffindor.

There were only four people left now. Dean Thomas, a tall, dark skinned boy, was sorted into Gryffindor, Lisa Turpin was sorted into Ravenclaw, Ron was sorted into Gryffindor and finally Blaise Zabini was sorted into Slytherin. As the applause died away for Blaise, Professor McGonagall rolled up her scroll, before setting the stool and sorting hat off to far side, behind the High Table. When she took her spot, Dumbledore rose to his feet, smiling at the students with his arms opened wide.

"Welcome," Dumbledore said pleasantly. "Welcome to a new year at Hgowarts! Before we begin out banquet, I would like to say a few words. And here they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you!" He sat back down as everyone clapped and cheered.

Orion held back a laugh as dishes filled with food appeared right in front of him. There was roast beef, roast chicken, pork chops, lamb chops, sausages, bacon, steak, boiled potatoes, roast potatoes, fries, Yorkshire pudding, peas, carrots, gravy, ketchup and peppermint humbugs. Orion didn't need an invitation and started piling his plate with food. Hogwarts food was always the best.

"That does look good," Nearly Headless Nick said sadly as he watched. Everyone around stared up at the ghost, no one knowing what exactly to say. "I haven't eaten for nearly five hundred years. I don't need to, of course, but one does miss it. Allow me to introduce myself, Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington at your service."

"I know who you are!" Ron exclaimed. "My brothers told me about you—you're Nearly Headless Nick!"

The ghost let out an annoyed huff. "I would prefer you to call me Sir Nicholas de Mimsy—"

"Nearly Headless?" Seamus Finnigan interrupted. "How can you be nearly headless?"

Orion's gaze fell to his plate as Sir Nicholas proved just how his nickname came to be. He was the victim of a failed beheading. "So," Sir Nicholas said as he flipped his head back into place, "new Gryffindors! I hope you're going to help us win the house championship this year! Gryffindors have never gone so long without winning. Slytherins have got the cup six years in a row! The Bloody Baron's becoming almost unbearable — he's the Slytherin ghost."

Everyone looked over at the Slytherin table and saw the Bloody Baron sitting next to Draco with his blank staring eyes, gaunt face and robes stained with silver blood. "How did he get covered in blood?" asked Seamus.

"I've never asked," said Sir Nicholas.

It wasn't long before everyone had eaten as much as they could and the remaining food faded from the plates, leaving them as clean as they were before. Deserts appeared a moment later. Blocks of ice cream in every flavor imaginable, apple pies, treacle tarts, chocolate éclairs, jam doughnuts, trifle, strawberries, and rice pudding. Orion didn't think he could eat much more so he simply took a small portion of strawberry ice cream and covered it with strawberries.

"I'm half-and-half," Seamus said bluntly. "Me dad's a Muggle. Mum didn't tell him she was a witch 'til after they were married. Bit of a nasty shock for him."

"I'm a Muggle-born," said Dean.

"Me too," said Hermione.

"I'm a pureblood," Neville said quietly.

"My mum's a Muggle-born," said Hayden. "My dad's a pureblood."

Everyone's gaze turned to Orion who shifted his own gaze to his dessert. He really didn't think it was any of their business what his make up was. He had been raised as a pureblood wizard dedicated to the light side. That's what was important, right?

"Orion?" asked Hermione curiously. "I know you said your dad and uncle were magical but what about your mum?"

"I don't have a mother," Orion said as he kept his gaze on his ice cream.

Hermione gasped. "Oh, I'm so sorry, Orion," she said sympathetically. "When did she die?"

Orion slowly raised his gaze to meet hers and noticed that everyone around them was paying close attention. "I don't know if she did," he said truthfully. "I'm adopted. My birth parents couldn't take care of me so my dad adopted me and gave me a potion to make me his actual son."

Hermione's eyes widened. "You can do that?" she asked in amazement. "Wow!"

Orion's gaze shifted to the High Table. He wanted nothing more than for Professor Dumbledore to end the meal so he could escape the stares the Gryffindor first years were currently giving him. Professor Dumbledore was currently talking to Professor McGonagall and appeared to be in no hurry to finish. Orion's gaze shifted to the new Defense teacher and then to Professor Snape. Their eyes met and out of nowhere a sharp, hot pain shot across Orion's forehead. Wincing, Orion quickly closed his eyes, grabbed his head and waited for the second it took the pain to fade.

"You all right, Ori?" asked Neville.

Orion rubbed his forehead subconsciously as he nodded. "I'm fine," he said. "Just a small headache."

When the desserts finally disappeared, Professor Dumbledore rose to his feet again and waited as all conversation quickly ceased. "Ahem—just a few more words now that we are all fed and watered," he said. "I have a few start-of-term notices to give you. First years should note that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils…and a few of our older students would do well to remember that as well." Dumbledore's gaze shifted towards the Weasley twins for a moment. "I have also been asked by Mr. Filch, the caretaker, to remind you all that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interested in playing for their house teams should contact Madam Hooch. And finally, I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."

Orion's eyes widened. Dumbledore would never joke about something like that which meant there was actually something extremely dangerous inside Hogwarts being held on the third floor.

"And now," Dumbledore continued, "bedtime. Off you trot!"

Percy Weasley immediately called out for the Gryffindor first years to follow him. Orion noticed the silver badge on his robes and knew that Fred and George's worst fears and become a reality. Their older brother was a Prefect. Orion obediently followed even though he knew a quicker way than what Percy was showing them. They passed portraits that were moving, whispering and pointing. They walked up stairs, through doorways that were hidden behind sliding panels and hanging tapestries only to once again climb up more stairs before coming to a sudden halt.

In front of them, a bundle of walking sticks were floating in midair. Percy stepped forward and the sticks stared throwing themselves at him. "Peeves, a poltergeist" Percy muttered to the first years. "Peeves—show yourself!" A loud sound like air being let out of a balloon was the only response. "Do you want me to go to the Bloody Baron?"

There was a pop followed by the appearance of a little man with dark eyes and a wide mouth. He was floating cross-legged in the air, holding onto the walking sticks. "Oooooooh!" he said with an evil cackle. "Ickle Firsties! What fun!" He swooped towards them and they all ducked.

"Go away, Peeves, or the Baron'll hear about this, I mean it!" yelled Percy.

Peeves stuck out his tongue and vanished, dropping the walking sticks above Orion and Neville. Orion quickly pulled Neville out of the way so that the sticks hit the floor as Peeves zoomed away, rattling coats of armor as he passed.

"You want to watch out for Peeves," said Percy as he began walking again, everyone following suit. "The Bloody Baron's the only one who can control him, he won't even listen to us Prefects. Here we are."

They were standing in front of a portrait of a very fat woman in a pink silk dress. "Password?" she asked.

"Caput Draconis," said Percy. The Portrait immediately swung forward to reveal a round hold in the wall. Everyone followed Percy through it and stepped into the Gryffindor Common Room, a cozy round room full of squashy armchairs. Percy directed the girls through one door to their dormitory and the boys through another. Hermione bid goodnight to Orion and Neville as they parted ways. They walked up a spiral staircase until they found their dorm. Six four-posters hung with deep, red velvet curtains. Their trunks had already been brought up and were placed at the foot of the beds.

Orion walked over to his bed by the window and next to Neville's. Thankfully, Hayden and Ron's beds were across the room. Too tired to talk much, everyone pulled on their pajamas when they heard a soft tapping against the window. Orion peaked out and smiled at the sight of Hedwig standing on the ledge, waiting for him. He hurriedly opened the window, ducking as she flew in and landed on his bed.

"Hi Hedwig," Orion said as he sat down in front of her. "I take it you're here to take a letter to dad." Hedwig hooted and held out her leg. Orion moved to his trunk and pulled out some parchment, ink and a quill. He wrote a quick message to his father before turning to Neville. "Do you want to send a letter to your parents?"

Neville looked slightly uncomfortable. "Do you mind?" he asked.

Orion looked at Hedwig with a serious look on his face. "Are you, Hedwig, up for the challenge of making multiple stops in a single journey?" Hedwig puffed out her chest and hooted loudly. Orion was certain that if she had arms she would have saluted him. "Good girl," he said with a smile before handing his quill over to Neville who wrote a quick note to his parents. Orion attached his note to Hedwig's right leg followed by Neville attaching his to her left leg. Once everything was in place, Hedwig flew out into the night and everyone crawled into bed.

Orion was asleep the moment his head touched the pillow.

A/N: I know the 'Gryffindor' choice will probably become as a disappointment for some but it sort of needs to be this way. Neville and Hermione are going to have a large part in the series which would be harder to do if they weren't in the same house. Also, putting Orion in the same house as Hayden actually forces some sort of interaction between the two.