"Dumbledore, Albus!"

The small first year boy walked up the stairs and sat on the stool the Professor had told him to. He felt the tough fabric drop over his head, covering his eyes, and took a deep breath.

Hello Mr Dumbledore.

"Hello." Albus replied faintly.

Not doing so well today, I see? They're not afraid of you.

He sighed. "Yes there are. They're judging me by what my father's done."

Ah, but you and I both know he had a reason for doing so.

"They don't." Albus said firmly, gesturing to the crowd that he was sure was watching his every move. "Because father could never tell anyone the reason for what he'd done. Just put me in Slytherin and let everyone's worst fears be confirmed."

Ah, but you are not a Slytherin, boy.

"Might as well be."

No, you might as well not be. I see great things Mr Dumbledore... great things indeed. Clever enough for Ravenclaw, hard-working enough for Hufflepuff... but what about Gryffindor?

"I don't think I'm very brave."

Ah, but I do. I do think so indeed, and you are if I think so. So congratulations, you are brave.

"But I'm clever and hard-working as well you said. Why does Gryffindor shine above the rest?"

Because you are a Gryffindor Mr Dumbledore, I know one when I see it. You are a brave, strong, powerful wizard who-

"Strong? Powerful? I've only just begun at Hogwarts."

But you will be Mr Dumbledore, you will. Trust in me, I'm the Sorting Hat.

"So you think Gryffindor is the house for me?"

Oh yes, very much so. But what is your opinion on this matter Mr Dumbledore?

"I didn't realize I got one."

But of course, it is your future I'm deciding!

"Well I suppose I would like to be in Gryffindor, yes, but do you really think I've got what it takes for any of these houses?"

It is our choices, Mr Dumbledore, that show what we truly are. Far more than our abilities.

Albus smiled the first genuine smile he had in a while. "Thanks, Sorting Hat."

It was my pleasure. Just please, work hard and stay strong.

"I will." Albus promised.

Good luck then, in "GRYFFINDOR!"

There was a silence as Albus walked down the steps, then the Gryffindor table erupted into cheers. They knew that no one that bad could've made it into their house. Maybe this new first year kid would do something great for Gryffindor. Something... life-changing even.

AN: Trying to update daily or every other day so look forward to that :)
Please review for me! I love hearing what you guys thought of it, and this was a much requested one, so keep those requests coming!
Until next chapter,

-Taylor :)