AN TOP: 23.08.2020 - Did some minor editing to clean up the writing.


CHAPTER 3: The Sorting Ceremony


The cold evening air greeted the four children as they stepped outside. Murmurs of discontent could be heard throughout the crowded platform as students complained about the rain. Lucas smiled and stretched out an open hand, appreciating the sensation of raindrops landing in his palm. After such a long train ride, the rain and fresh air felt invigorating.

"All first-years over here! All first-year students over here!" A loud voice bellowed out. Drawing the attention of Lucas and his compatriots. Underneath the light of a carried torch stood a giant of a man towering above all others. His face concealed by his long hair and a shaggy beard.

"First-year students this way!" The man shouted out again. He looked at the four of them "You're all first-years?"

Lucas did not answer. He found himself freeze under the man's gaze. His tone was friendly, but his sheer height and wild look made Lucas uneasy. The boy cast a quick side-glance at Rowan and Tonks. Both seemed as apprehensive as he was. The four of them were all silent until they finally nodded together.

"Alright, just follow me in a moment," The man spoke. He called out for first-year students a few more times to ensure all heard him. By now, a crowd of fresh students had gathered around him "You're all here? Good! All first-years follow me!"

They followed the man down a small path separate from the main road "Watch your step! It can be a bit slippery in the rain here!" The man shouted as they descended. The path was dark and narrow, with the large man's torch the only guiding light.

"When do you think we'll see Hogwarts?" Rowan anxiously asked Lucas. Trees and thick growth blocked any view of the distance. Making it hard to judge just how close they were.

"I'm certain we'll see it so-" Lucas tried to answer, but found himself speechless as he and the rest of the students turned with the bending road. A wide opening revealed itself. They had arrived at the edge of a large lake. Its' waters reflecting the sky and stars above. And across the lake, settled on the top of a mountain, stood Hogwarts itself. Sounds of amazement escaped from many of the children, Lucas included.

"It looks even more impressive than in the books!" Rowan let out in excitement. Lucas could not help but agree. The pictures and words he had seen and heard used to describe the castle could not do it justice. Its grand walls and towers seemed even more majestic against the night sky than he could ever imagine. Its' windows reflecting the heavens above like pools of dark water.

"Alright everyone. No more than four students per boat!" The man shouted out. Stopping to point out a small fleet of boats waiting at the shore.

Lucas, Rowan, Charlie and Tonks went to the closest boat available. Weasley went in first. Settling himself in before Tonks proceeded. Despite the pink-haired witch's best efforts. She stumbled into the craft. Nearly threatening to flip it over. The man rushed over as several children from the surrounding boats laughed at the spectacle.

"You alright there?" He called out to Tonks who struggled to get up without rocking the boat further.

"Sorry!" Tonks spoke out as Charlie helped her sit down safely. She looked up to the large man "I'm alright!"

The man nodded and gestured Lucas to enter next. Blackburn obeyed and stepped onto the boat. Afterwards Lucas turned and helped a cautious Rowan onto as well.

"Everyone in?" The man shouted out as he scanned the edge of the lake. Assured that all were in a boat. He stepped into his own "Good then - Forward!"

The boats now began moving on their own, with the man's boat taking the lead. Crossing the lake, it felt less like the boats were sailing, but gliding across. Lucas leaned over to look into the water. Rowan, sitting next to Blackburn, followed suit.

"This is the Black Lake. I've read there's a giant squid down there." Rowan spoke out in a cautious manner. As if afraid that speaking too loudly would draw the creature's attention.

"You think it's aware of us?" Lucas asked excitedly. Loving nothing more than to see a magical squid swoop up to the water's surface. Having overheard Lucas and Rowan's conversation. Charlie and Tonks were now leaning over the boat as well.

Tonks reached out with a hand into the water "Hellooo, Mister Squid!" Giggling as she splashed the water's surface.

A yelp escaped from the girl and she withdrew her hand in an instant. Causing quite a few stares from the surrounding students. Lucas, Charlie, and Rowan all looked at her as if she had gone mad.

"What?" Tonks said incredulously "The squid touched my fingers!"

The three boys were left shaking their heads.

They traveled further over the water. By now all were silent as they sailed under the shadow of the castle.

"Heads down everyone!" The man's voice thundered as they approached a curtain of fog. As they crossed through the mist, they entered a tunnel taking them underneath the castle. Leading them to an underground pier.

Disembarking from their boats. The man led them up a small pathway carved through the rock that clung to the castle wall. Crossing over grass they then ascended a final set of stone steps before finally arriving in front of a large wooden door.

"Is everyone here? Good!" The man barked out before knocking on the castle door.

The door opened. Revealing an older witch clad in emerald robes. She wore a dark, pointed hat. The top of which crooked ever so slightly to the side. Tall and dark-haired. She reminded Lucas for a moment of his grandmother. Though this woman's face was far more austere in its expression.

"Professor McGonagall," The man addressed the witch. She gave a simple nod in return. Lucas had heard of McGonagall. Both his parents spoke highly of her. His father had said she was one of his favorite professors during his time. Citing her strict discipline and demand for excellency. Jacob had also spoken well of her. Though he had also warned never to get on her bad side, less one wished to see a fury few possessed.

"Excellent, Hagrid. I'll take the students from here," Professor McGonagall stated. She observed the students for a moment before speaking "Everyone, follow me."

She led them through the entrance hall. Walking past a double door to their right. Lucas could hear the sound of what undoubtedly had to be the rest of the school already gathered. But they did not enter the great hall immediately. Instead, Professor McGonagall led them into a side chamber close by.

Packed together in the small room. Hushed talk began spreading through the crowd like wildfire.

"Your attention, please!" The Hogwarts professor called out. Her commanding voice gripped the focus of all without any trouble, and all children were now silent. She continued.

"First of all. I would like to welcome each of you to Hogwarts. The start-of-term banquet will begin soon, but before it begins, the Sorting Ceremony will take place. This is an important moment for it is here where it is decided which house you will belong to. During your time here in Hogwarts, your house will be like your family. It is with them that you will study with and share common room and dormitory with.

The four houses are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. All of them have a great history, and all of them have produced exceptional and famous witches and wizards. Understand that while you are here, your accomplishments will earn your house points, while rule-breaking and other ill behavior will result in your house losing points. At the end of the year, the house that has earned the most points will be awarded the House Cup. I therefore hope each of you will be a credit to your house, regardless of which you join.

Now, the Sorting Ceremony will take place in just a few minutes. I recommend you all prepare yourself. I will return when we are ready."

With her speech ended, McGonagall immediately turned to leave. None of the children dared speak until she had left the chamber and fully closed the door, but as soon as she had the room became ablaze with frightened whispers once more.

Lucas felt his mouth go dry. He turned his attention to his clothes. Clammy hands trying to ensure his shirt was tucked in before re-adjusting his robes. The young wizard felt his heartbeat increase upon hearing of the Sorting Ceremony. He knew that there was some sort of test, but all of his family, his brother included, had refused to ever tell him what it was. He looked at Rowan, who seemed as distressed as he was.

"I don't suppose you know what this test includes?" Lucas asked his friend.

"I don't know! All the books I've read mention something about a hat!" Rowan nervously shot back.

"A hat?" Lucas repeated in disbelief. Knowing that a hat was involved did little to put his mind at ease. Lucas turned his head to see if someone was handling the situation well. Charlie was fearfully staring at the door. Tonks was visibly sweating, and Lucas swore he saw her hair constantly changing its hue of pink. Close to her, a blonde-haired boy visibly struggled to keep his composure. Everyone in the room was as skittish as he was.

The door opened again. Turning the chamber silent in a split-second. Professor McGonagall stood in the doorway "The ceremony is ready to begin. I would like all of you to form a line and follow me."

A small moment of chaos ensured as the first-year students tried to scuffle past each and reform into a line. After a minute of organizing, they were ready to follow the professor into the great hall.

The doors of the great hall swung open as they approached it. Entering the great chamber, Lucas found himself awestruck once more. Countless lit candles levitated mid-air over four long tables where all students were sitting. The ceiling above had been enchanted to look like the sky, just as his family had told him. For a moment Lucas found himself struggling to breathe. For years he had dreamed of seeing it with his own eyes and to finally be here himself.

"If only you were here too, Jacob."

They approached the other end of the hall. Closer to the grand table that was the professors and staff members'. Lucas, thanks to his height, could see over his fellow students and get a glimpse of the professors already seated. Sitting at the very center of the teacher's table was an old man whose robes were that of a deep burgundy color. His beard and hair both long and silvery. Lucas had seen the elder in enough news articles and collectable cards to know it was none other than the legendary Albus Dumbledore.

Ordered to stop in the middle of the hall. Lucas watched Professor McGonagall place a simple stool between them and the teacher's table. She then put a hat that could at best be described as dirty and worn-out on it.

"When I call your name, you will put on the hat and sit in the stool to be sorted," McGonagall explained as she rolled out a long scroll of parchment "Angelos, Celesta!"

A red-haired girl broke out from the line. Approaching the stool with tiny steps. She sat down on it before putting the old hat on. The headwear was so large it fell over and covered her eyes.

The hall was dead silent. Lucas glanced at Rowan, who was behind him. Khanna could only shrug his shoulders. Each of them as confused as the other. Blackburn turned to ask the boy in front of him.

"Do you know what's going on?" He whispered. The boy barely turned his head to look at him. It was the same blonde-haired boy he saw panicking in the side-chamber. Frantically shaking his head, too terrified to even open his mouth. It was clear he had no idea what the hat was doing either.

"Hufflepuff!" The hat suddenly shouted. Leading to great cheer from the table furthest to the right.

"Is that it?" Lucas thought. Was he just to sit in the chair and put on the hat? It seemed too simple, too easy. There had to be more to all of this.

"Aquino, Damian," McGonagall called out. A boy with platinum blond hair strolled past Lucas towards the chair. The hat had only rested on his head for a few seconds before it made its decision.

"Slytherin!"

Loud applause erupted from the table furthest to the left. McGonagall continued "Aquino, Diana."

A girl with long hair, its color the exact same platinum as the boy before, approached. Given the last name they shared. Lucas could only assume the two Aquinos were twins. The Sorting Hat was even quicker to put Diana into Slytherin than it was with Damian. Next was a Henry Billingsley who was the second to be sorted into Hufflepuff.

Lucas' stomach began to churn. If they were already at students whose surname started with B. Then it was only a matter of time before…

"Blackburn, Lucas!" McGonagall's voice rang throughout the great hall. Lucas swallowed hard before glancing quickly at Rowan. Khanna said nothing but gave him half a nod urging him forward.

Approaching the stool. Lucas' feet seemed like stone. The room was dead silent, and he sensed every eye resting upon him. Struggling to keep calm, he forced himself to look forward. Looking at the teacher's table, he could see several of them leaning close to each other to whisper, Dumbledore included.

"I can't believe they let his brother in!" Lucas heard a scornful voice emerge from the Slytherin table. Lucas instinctively looked to his left.

"That's Jacob's younger brother, Erika!" A Ravenclaw girl whispered to her compatriot as he walked past them.

"Blackburn? You mean that Blackburn?" He heard someone speak out from the Gryffindor table closest to his right.

He stood directly in front of the stool now. This was it, the moment of truth. He took a last look at the professor's table. He knew it was just his imagination, but even still it felt as if it was not just the staff who was watching him with great interest. Amongst the grand table he saw not just the eyes of Dumbledore and the other teachers, but those of his father, his mother, his grandparents, and Jacob. They were all here in spirit. Watching him, judging him.

He could not disappoint them.

Sitting down on the stool. He let himself don the hat. Its dark fabric fell over his eyes. Enveloping him and shutting off the rest of the chamber.

"Ahhh," A voice in his ears said "Another Blackburn, another challenge... "

Lucas tightened his grip on the stool but did not answer back.

"I see many qualities in you, young one, though some shine brighter than others. The issue is, of course, which house suits you best? Gryffindor and Ravenclaw are out of the question. Not for any lack of bravery or wits, mind you. You have plenty of both, boy - don't fret about that - but it is most certainly not what defines you."

Lucas gave a weak nod in response. Accepting the hat's judgement.

"So that leaves Hufflepuff and Slytherin. And I see reason for both. You are dedicated and loyal to those closest to you. After all this time, you still have kept your brother's words a secret, even from your parents."

"How did you-" Lucas tried to mutter under his breath. Angry that the hat would dare bring up what his brother had told him and afraid it would reveal them. The hat interrupted him before he could say much, however.

"Don't worry, I won't tell a soul," The voice reassured before continuing "Dedicated and loyal - that you are - but ambitious too, quite so, in fact! You wish to prove yourself your brother and father's better. And perhaps you might? The talent and cunning are certainly there."

Lucas could feel his heart hammer away now. He knew the hat was reaching its decision. It resumed.

"Weighing the options. The answer seems much clearer now. With so much potential, who am I to deny its growth? Slytherin is indeed where you belong, even if your blood is far from the purest."

Lucas' cheeks were red hot from the last comment. Though he stayed his tongue. Seconds turned into eternities as he waited for the hat to announce its decision.

"Slytherin!" The hat finally declared. Relieved that his trial was over. Lucas was more than glad to take it off. Fully aware of his surroundings again. The young Blackburn noticed that his joining had been met with only half-hearted applause from his fellow Slytherins.

Approaching the Slytherin table Lucas was met with glares from multiple of the house's older students. Finding a seat at the long-table. None had turned to congratulate or welcome him beyond the Aquino twins who quickly returned to talk amongst themselves. He observed the rest of the sorting ceremony.

"Copper, Ben!" Was the next name McGonagall called forth. The terrified boy Lucas had asked earlier stepped up to the hat. The entire hall was held in tense silence as all awaited the hat's judgement for over three minutes. Finally, the hat roared a mighty "Gryffindor!" to the resounding applause of the house for the wizard being the first of his year to join them. Following Ben Copper was a Jacqueline Dane, the first to be declared for Ravenclaw. The ceremony continued.

"Diomedes, Julian!"

"Gryffindor!"

"Edgecomb, Marius!"

"Ravenclaw!"

More names followed. Abby Fletcher and Gabriella Gladwin both became Gryffindor while Serena Hawking was the third to join Ravenclaw.

"Haywood, Penny!"

A girl with braided hair, its color almost golden in its tone, gracefully walked forth. Her sorting took little time as the hat was quick to deem her a Hufflepuff. Following Haywood were Cicero Insteius and Mark Jernigan joining Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff respectively.

"Karasu, Tulip!"

A dark-haired girl approached the chair and Sorting Hat in an almost running pace. Lucas got a better look of her as she sat down and saw her skin was a light copper tint. The hat speculated for around a minute before making its decision heard "Ravenclaw!"

Cheers emerged from the Ravenclaw students as their newest witch joined them. McGonagall waited for the noise to die down before resuming.

"Khanna, Rowan!"

Lucas straightened himself up immediately upon hearing the announcement. Giving himself as good a view as possible. He watched as Rowan trudged forward and slowly donned the hat. The British-Indian's face completely pale. Silence gripped the hall and Lucas remained utterly fixated on his friend. He did not know which house Rowan wished to be sorted into, but Blackburn found himself desperately hoping that the hat would sort Khanna into the same house as him.

"Slytherin!" The hat yelled out. All Slytherins applauded, Lucas most of all. As his friend approached the table, Blackburn waved him over and made space so they could sit together.

"I can't believe I made it into Slytherin!" Rowan spoke out as he took a seat next to Lucas. His pale face regaining its original color by the second now.

"No kidding!" Were the only words Blackburn could speak. His mind just as relieved as Rowan's that they had both been sorted into the same house.

"Lee, Barnaby!"

Both wizards turned their attention back to the ritual. The student that approached the stool was tall and broad-shouldered. Lucas blinked as he watched him sit down. His build made him seem almost like a younger Jacob from a distance.

Minutes passed and then "Slytherin!"

The large wizard found his way to the table. Both Lucas and Rowan congratulated him as he sat down, offering them a wide grin and excited thanks in return. More first-years were sorted. Rhys Llewellyn, Chiara Lobosca, Martin Mcmillan, and Olivia Miller were the four next. The two first went to Hufflepuff. The other two Gryffindor.

"Murk, Ismelda!"

A pale-skinned girl was the next to be placed into Slytherin. Lucas struggled to hold back a laugh seeing Khanna grimace as the witch decided to sit next to him. Following Ismelda was a Dan Norman for Hufflepuff and Ian O'Brian for Ravenclaw.

"Parkin, Skye!"

Lucas found his attention caught by the last name "Parkin? You think she's related to Ethan Parkin - the Quidditch player?" Blackburn whispered to Rowan. Far from the only one having the question on his mind as similar speculation ran through the crowd. Followed by answers.

"That's Ethan Parkin's daughter!"

"If she is, I hope she joins us," Lucas thought. Ethan Parkin was one of the best Quidditch players in the UK. If this Skye really was related and was even half the Quidditch player, then having her would be a boon for any future team.

"Slytherin!"

Of all first-years to join Slytherin. Skye was the most applauded. Several older students cheered out loud the Parkin family name to gloat at the other houses.

Next was Juno Quinctius for Gryffindor and Birgit Reynolds to Ravenclaw. By now, there were only four students left to be sorted.

"Snyde, Merula!"

The first of the two last witches strode forth, her steps the most confident of all her peers. The witch donned the ancient hat and sat down on the stool with legs crossed. A dozen seconds passed, and then "Slytherin!"

The table applauded, and the girl went to join her fellow house members. Lucas, however, paid her little heed. His attention focused entirely on Tonks and Weasley, who were still up there.

"Tonks, Nymphadora!"

Lucas' opinion may have soured on the Metamorphmagus, but he was still interested in finding out what house she would join. Watching the witch take her place to be sorted. Lucas entertained himself thinking how she would react if the hat put her in Slytherin. Half a minute passed before the house declared her for Hufflepuff.

A visibly relieved Tonks rushed to take her seat amongst her newfound comrades. The only two left now were Charlie and another wizard.

"Weasley, Charles!"

Despite Charlie's own hope to join Gryffindor like his family. A part of Lucas wished he would be sorted into Slytherin together with him and Rowan. The three of them would make a great team.

"Gryffindor!" The hat proclaimed. A sigh escaped from Lucas.

Charlie quickly yanked off the hat. The satisfaction of the result clear on his face. Lucas frowned as he watched the junior Weasley be congratulated by his older sibling Bill. Blackburn turned his sight away. Not wanting to look at the two reunited brothers more than he had to.

The final student to be sorted was Talbott Winger, who joined Ravenclaw. With the sorting ceremony over and all students now seated. McGonagall proceeded to move away the wooden stool and hat, placing them to the side. She took her place at the high table afterwards.

With everyone ready. The Headmaster of Hogwarts finally rose up to make his welcoming speech.

"First of all. I wish you all a warm welcome to another year at Hogwarts. Whether this is your first year or last, I hope it will provide ample opportunities to learn and grow for all of you," Dumbledore's arms were open as he spoke, he continued "The past few years have seen a great weight lifted from these lands. And our world continues to breathe easy knowing peace has returned. We can only hope that this is just the beginning of a brighter era."

The Headmaster paused and smiled. Even from a distance, it was clear was he beaming with joy.

"But don't let the ramblings of an old man distract you. Most of you are starving, I'm certain. And with that, I would like to say thank you very much and let the feast begin!"

The entire great hall applauded the Headmaster's words. Lucas felt his stomach growl in hunger and suddenly grew a greater appreciation for the short speech. The young wizard turned his eyes to the table. Plates, bowls, and pots previously empty were now filled to the brim with food. The selection of dishes available were plentiful and varied, all to the amazement of the muggle-born first-years.

Students eagerly began filling up their golden plates with food, and the hall became rife with the sound of laughter and talk. Lucas helped himself to a generous portion of roasted duck together with boiled potatoes, gravy, and an assortment of other vegetables.

"I'm still happy the two of us got put into Slytherin," Rowan said as he cut off a piece of steak "When I first put on the Sorting Hat, I was terrified it would put me somewhere else. It struggled between putting me in Slytherin or Ravenclaw."

"Me too. For what's it's worth - The Hat was spending time deciding between Hufflepuff and here for me." Lucas proceeded to take in a mouthful of all the different foods on his plate. Enjoying the fantastic taste the duck, gravy and vegetables together provided.

Rowan laughed "Hufflepuff? Seriously?"

Lucas could only nod in response as he chewed his food. When finished, he shrugged his shoulders "I wouldn't have minded it, I suppose. My mother was Hufflepuff, but I'm glad the Hat decided Slytherin for me."

"What about your grandparents?" Khanna asked.

"Lea, who you met on the platform, was in Ravenclaw," Lucas paused. His sight turning to the Ravenclaw table "As for the rest of my grandparents. They are muggles, so..." Lucas' thoughts drifted away. He felt like he was back in the chair with the Sorting Hat on him. It had judged him for his lineage. And despite in the end granting him a place at Slytherin. Lucas couldn't help but wonder if some of his fellow students would be as accepting.

"My father was in Ravenclaw as well," Rowan replied. Dragging Lucas' attention back to his friend. Khanna resumed "He said it was because he wanted to know all there was to tree-farming."

The two boys continued discussing family. Lucas learned that Rowan's mother as a witch had studied in the great magical school in India (the name of which Lucas did not dare to try and pronounce). And from the way Khanna described things, it sounded like she was from a family similar to the old pureblooded ones found in Britain.

Conversation around the table eventually moved around to what everyone expected from the school. Lucas looked at his fellow students across from him "so, which lessons are you all looking forward to?"

Lucas had asked the Aquino twins first. Neither of the two answered him straight away. Glaring at him as if his question was outlandish. Blackburn observed the twins in return. Both were pale-skinned and had diamond-shaped faces, sharing a similar narrow chin, wide cheekbones and eyes of pond-water green. All served to give Lucas an off-putting sensation seeing them side by side. As if he saw two variants of the same painting, with only the slightest changes made to differentiate between them.

Damian answered first "I am looking forward to Potions myself."

"Yes. Potions do sound quite interesting," Diana followed up her brother's words without missing a beat.

Lucas turned to Barnaby next "What about you? What classes do yo-"

"Care of Magical Creatures! I can't wait to hold a fire salamander!" Barnaby blurted out with a wide grin, interrupting Blackburn before he could even finish. The burly wizard's bright green eyes gleamed with excitement at the prospect of handling such an animal. Lucas raised an eyebrow. As far as he knew, Care of Magical Creatures was not for first-year students. Lucas and Rowan exchanged glances with each other. Khanna then cleared his throat.

"I'm sorry..." Rowan looked at Barnaby "...But Care of Magical Creatures is only for third-year students and above."

Barnaby's grin crumbled. A barely audible "Oh" the only thing to escape from the boy as his eyes sunk low. Looking as if he had just been informed that Christmas had been canceled.

"Pffft! Forget about magical creatures," Ismelda declared "I just hope we learn about the dark arts."

Talks continued. Eventually, the main course was over and dessert was now served. Despite his own common sense telling him to stop after having eaten two whole plates already. Lucas knew he could not afford to miss the apple pie and ice cream served and eagerly took plenty of both. In the midst of all this, the ghost of Hogwarts had arrived. Flying through the great hall. Shocking and surprising the newest students.

Lucas glanced at the rest of the table. None of the older students to his right had confronted him so far. Considering the hostile whispers he heard approaching the Sorting Hat. Lucas was grateful there was not more antagonism towards him. Perhaps if he was lucky, this would carry through into the rest of the year.

Further up the left side of the table was Skye. Holding the attention of all the surrounding Slytherins "It's a shame they don't let first-years onto the Quidditch team. My father has trained me to fly a broom since I could walk."

More curious, however, was the girl at the end of the table sitting closest to the professors. As Lucas turned to look at the left-most seats. The girl immediately lowered her head and stared down at her plate. Lucas knew instinctively that she had been watching him. He nudged Rowan.

"Who is she? The girl furthest to the left," Blackburn whispered. Subtly motioning towards the witch. Khanna gave an inquisitive look towards the girl.

"Not sure," Rowan answered. His sight moving back to Lucas "She was the last to be sorted into Slytherin, right?"

"Yeah, what was her name?"

Rowan scratched his chin "Snyde or something if I recall. Why are you asking?"

Lucas' eyes rested on the witch for a final moment. The wizard shrugged his shoulders "Doesn't matter," What did matter was that, once again, Lucas noticed one of the professors staring at him. A man with pale skin, hooked nose, and long black hair. They locked eyes.

From a distance, the professor's dark eyes seemed like black pits. Lucas found himself struggling to maintain his gaze. There was a cold power behind the professor's glare and for a second, Lucas felt he was not entirely alone in his mind or memories. Blackburn flinched.

Rowan noticed his reaction "Something wrong, Lucas?"

"It's nothing," Blackburn reassured.

Both children resumed their desserts. Eventually, the last course was finished and the remaining food vanished from the table. Professor Dumbledore rose from his chair once more. Prompting the entire hall to go silent.

"Now that our bellies are full. I would like to provide some start-of-term notices for all of you. All first-year students should be aware that the forest on the grounds is strictly off-limits for all pupils."

Lucas overheard Barnaby and several other students groan at the answer. Dumbledore continued.

"Furthermore. I would like to point out that you are not to perform magic in the corridors between classes.

Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of term. Any student, second year or above, who wish to try their luck in joining their house team should talk to Madam Hooch.

Lastly, I would like to remind all of you that while I encourage exploration of this great castle. Reckless pursuits that endanger your fellow students will not be tolerated and will be dealt with using the harshest punishments possible."

The Headmaster's eyes betrayed only the slightest movement, but Lucas saw the professor's half-moon spectacles gleam towards him. Dumbledore's words made Lucas purse his lips. The professor's first notices had been spoken in a relaxed matter-of-fact. His last warning, by contrast, was somber and acute.

"But enough of all that. I believe it is bedtime for all of you! First-year students, please follow your prefects. They will help guide you to your common room!"

The great hall was filled with noise the moment Dumbledore ended his announcement. All students had risen from their seats and the older ones were already heading for the exit.

"All first-year Slytherins follow us!" Two older students called out, one a witch and the other a wizard. When all first-year Slytherins had gathered around them, they proceeded to follow the two prefects through the castle. Descending down into the dungeons where the Slytherin common room waited.

Traversing through the corridors, Lucas realized just how stuffed he was after the feast. To the point that even walking downstairs felt like a slog. He had heard that the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw common rooms were located higher up in the castle. Considering his current state, Blackburn was thankful he had not been sorted into either of those houses.

Soon the prefects led them to a hallway completely empty save for the torches lighting it. The female Prefect motioned them to stop as the male Prefect stepped forward to look at a bare stretch of stone wall.

"Fratricide."

The wall slid open upon the password being uttered. Revealing behind it a heavy wooden door. The female Prefect led them through and into the Slytherin common room.

Inside was a long room lower down. Separated from the entrance by another set of steps. Its walls and ceiling made of rough stone. Round lamps, green in their tint, hung from the top by chains. At the far end of the room were arch and rose-shaped windows displaying the depths of the black lake on the other side. Had it been day, the room would have been bathed in a jade light.

"Gather around the fireplace please," The male Prefect ordered the new arrivals. Moving past the first-year students to stand next to his female colleague already there. The fireplace itself was grand. The mantelpiece being carved to carry the motifs of serpents, befitting of the majestic house it represented. Around the fireside were leather sofas and recliners for students to relax in. Likewise, the rest of the room possessed many chairs and tables to gather and sit around. The two Prefects now stood next to each other. The wizard had a thin face with lightly hollow cheeks. His slick, brown hair was short and combed to each side. He proceeded to speak.

"To begin with, let me introduce myself. I am Felix Rosier, fifth-year student and one of the six Prefects of Slytherin," Felix Rosier gestured at the witch beside him "And this is Anna Talanova, fellow fifth-year, and Prefect."

Anna Talanova gave a curt nod, but did not say anything. Felix continued "I would like to congratulate all of you for having been sorted into Slytherin. You are now part of a long line of prestigious witches and wizards to have joined the greatest of Hogwarts' four houses."

Lucas felt a swell of pride inside himself. Knowing he was treading the same path his brother, his father as well as countless other generations of great wizards before him had. Glancing at his fellow first-years. He caught Rowan smiling at the Prefect's words and others nodding in approval. Felix continued.

"Understand, though, that this honor comes with a responsibility. I demand excellence from all of you, as do Professor Snape; Our Head-of-House. And given recent … history … a greater expectation of good conduct has been placed upon Slytherin. And no matter how unfair or unfounded this is. We will live up to it."

Felix paused. Gauging the reaction of the young students. Lucas frowned. The Dark Lord had been rumored to be from Slytherin and most of his loyal followers were known to be. Tonks' words back on the train replayed themselves in his mind. Lucas clinched a single fist. Whatever negative reputation Slytherin had amongst some was unjustified.

"Now, if you'll excuse us. Talanova and I are to have a quick meeting with the other Prefects. We will return in roughly ten minutes to show you your dormitories. Feel free to talk amongst yourselves in the meantime," Rosier explained before he and Talanova entered a small side-room.

The vast majority of the first-years planted themselves in the couches around the fireplace surrounding Skye. Eager to continue asking her every question imaginable about Quidditch and her father. Lucas did not join them, however, walking over instead to one of the three great windows looking into the lake.

"It's incredible, isn't it? Even better than I imagined," Rowan spoke out as he walked up next to him. Both gazed out the window, though it was so dark one could not see anything not directly touching the glass.

Lucas rested a single palm on the glass panel "It really is amazing. I've dreamed of being here for years..."

"I can't believe they even let you in here after your mental brother got expelled, and ruined Slytherins reputation!" A voice behind Lucas barked out.

Blackburn spun around. In front of him stood two older students with sneering faces. Both larger and likely stronger than him.

Lucas flared up "I didn't choose to be put in Slytherin," he shot back in as strong a voice as he could muster. Both of the senior students took a step forward.

"We certainly didn't choose you," The second of the two students snarled. Lucas' body tensed. His eyes instinctively looked to both of his sides. The scene had seized the attention of all the other students in the room, though none seemed eager or interested in intervening.

None except for Rowan

"Lucas will be an outstanding Slytherin. I'm assuming neither of you are, considering what you are doing here," Khanna said. Glaring at the two students who only scoffed in response.

The first of the two students drew his wand, aiming it at Lucas "Perhaps we should teach both of you a lesson right now? Looks like you could use it."

"Amadeus, Colton, what are you two doing?" Felix's voice called out.

The two instigators turned around "Rosier, you're a bit early," Amadeus said, holstering his wand away quickly.

"It was deemed better for me to watch over our newest students," Felix glanced at Lucas before his eyes narrowed back in on the troublemakers "Now I'll ask again. What are you two doing?"

"Us?" Amadeus repeated with mock-confusion "Why we were just saying hello to Jacob's younger brother, of course!"

Felix raised a hand in a commanding gesture "Get back to your quarters - both of you."

Colton let out a contemptuous laugh while Amadeus merely smirked.

"If you say so, my Prefect," Amadeus gave a derisive bow to Rosier and left for his dormitory with Colton afterwards, but not before turning to Lucas one last time "Don't worry, Blackburn. We'll talk again later."

"Thank you for helping us," Lucas said after the senior students were gone.

Felix gave him an impassive look "Considering what your brother did to Slytherin's reputation; I'm expecting I'll have to keep a closer eye on you."

Lucas looked down at his feet "I know my brother broke school rules and damaged Slytherin's reputation," He answered in a shy tone before returning the Prefect's gaze "But I want to be a credit to our house."

"Good. The other Prefects and I are willing to give you a chance. I'm counting on you to do your best," Rosier crossed his arms "And I'm counting on you to stay out of trouble."

Rowan's eyes widened "This wasn't Lucas fault! Those two students were the ones who started this!"

"I didn't say it was," Felix corrected Khanna. His focus returned to Lucas "But Jacob did little to endear himself in the last two years he was here. Some will not take kindly to you because of that."

The Prefect left the two wizards after giving his warning. Lucas and Rowan found a place to sit as they waited for Talanova to return and for Rosier to show them their dormitory.

"I know you said you didn't need me to stand up for you, but I couldn't just watch anyone talk to my friend like that," Rowan said.

Lucas gave a faint smile "Thanks, Rowan. You didn't have to do it, but I appreciate you watching my back."

They waited. With the two older Slytherins gone the first-year students around the fireplace had resumed their small-talk. It was then Lucas discovered that in a shadowy corner of the room, the same first-year witch who watched him during the feast was brooding for herself. Had she been spying on him again? Blackburn considered confronting her, but he had little appetite to cause another scene on his first day.

At last, all the Prefects returned. Rosier took all the first-year wizards and introduced them to their dormitory. A large oval-shaped room with enough space for each student to have their own four-poster bed together with a nightstand, drawer, and wallboard. The bed was draped in curtains of emerald color. The duvet and pillows, a deep forest green.

"You're each already assigned a bed. You'll find your trunk and your personal belongings at the foot of it," The Prefect explained "Your schedule for the week can be found on your nightstand - Don't be late for class!"

All of them nodded at Felix's words, too tired to speak back. The fifth-year departed and the young wizards quietly prepared themselves for the night.

With his teeth brushed and pajamas on. Lucas crawled into his bed. Despite his weariness, the junior Blackburn did not fall asleep immediately. The events of the day replaying in his head. He knew he would be judged for Jacob's actions, but it was one thing to expect something and another to finally be confronted by it. The scornful whispers and hostility he faced echoed in Lucas' mind. Leaving the young boy to ponder a single question over and over until he succumbed to a dreamless sleep.

"Jacob, what did you do?"


AN: I am aware Tulip has red hair in-game, but I always thought it was simply colored red and not natural.