I entered the castle with great weariness, Draco on my left guiding me through what he called the "great Hall". He led me to a table with green-clad members, sat me down, and explained that the first years were to be sorted. I pretended to be paying attention to all of the direction he was giving me, but in reality I was simply frightened of him and all of his would-be-nice friends. I stared blankly at the front tables where what looked like teachers were seated, awaiting the first year's entry.

With a great clang, the doors opened yet again to let in a group of frightened-looking 11-year-olds, awaiting their sorting. A few of them caught my eye and I gave each of them a feverish smile, but I was too nervous myself, knowing that I would be called forth as well.

At once a shrewd, serious looking woman spoke clearly towards us, indicating that the sorting would begin.

"Accost, Mandy."

My stomach was in knots as I looked at Draco for reassurance as he smiled and nudged me off of my seat, indicating I was to go to the front of the hall and place the dusy, dirtly old wizard hat on my head. I didn't want it anywhere near me, yet I understood that arguing was probably not the best I idea at the time.

Tripping as I stepped off of the bench, I began to walk self-cautiously towards the hat, feeling all eyes on me. I couldn't pull off eleven, no way in hell, and what more-I was wearing muggle clothing. I caught the eye of some good-looking older boys and turned my nose up (what I thought was mature) as I finally sat down on the stool and placed the hat awkwardly onto my head.