AN: This story is a reimagining of Slytherin House, the description of which by the Sorting Hat rarely matches the actual traits and behavior of its students, especially Draco Malfoy, Vincent Crabbe, and Gregory Goyle.

Chapter 1: The Letter

July 24, 1991

An envelope of yellow parchment, addressed in emerald green ink. Hardly unusual, and yet, as Dobby proffered this letter atop the many Father received every day, it made Draco's heart skip a beat. Taking a serpent-engraved letter-knife from Father's desk, Draco slid it carefully, painstakingly, under the wax seal of Hogwarts, School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He licked his dry lips, and pried it open.

At that moment, Father burst into his study, imperious as ever in his ebony black robes, gripping his cane like an instrument of death. Snatching the letters from Dobby, the family House Elf, he started perusing the addresses. Draco cleared his throat, loudly.

Father looked up, annoyed, then saw the letter in Draco's hand. He smiled, one of his rare, genuine smiles, which perhaps a dozen people had seen in the last decade. "Your Hogwarts letter, Draco?"

Draco nodded. At his father's nod of approval, he lifted the flap of the envelope and slipped the letter out of it.

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Headmaster Albus Dumbledore,

Order of Merlin, First Class,

Grand Sorcerer,

Chief Warlock,

Supreme Mugwump, International Confederation of Wizards

Dear Mr. Malfoy, we are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed the list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.

Yours Sincerely, Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress