Fortunately, the entire ride didn't take place in silence. In fact, everyone perked up quite a lot when the snack trolley came through, and after several sugary treats Ginny seemed to take notice of Amanda for the first time.
"So … um, what was your name?"
"Amanda."
"Right. So I guess you were homeschooled before?" She grimaced as she said it.
"Yes, all my life. I'd be home still except for the decree."
"What year are you? Have you done your OWLs?"
"I did my OWLs in the spring, but I didn't do very well. I only qualified to take NEWT classes in Charms, Divination and Herbology. Oh, and I'm sixth year."
Neville jumped in. "Herbology? That's my favorite subject. Maybe I can help you."
Amanda smiled shyly. "I'd really appreciate that."
From there the conversation turned to houses with Neville and Ginny advocating for Griffindor while Luna cast her vote for Ravenclaw. Further conversation kept them occupied all the way until the train pulled into Hogsmeade Station.
Amanda was awestruck by her first view of Hogwarts. It was much larger and grander than she had imagined. The sight of the imposing structure brought the butterflies back to her stomach, and the nerves just kept growing as she stepped off the boat that had brought her, along with the first years and other new students, across the lake.
The worst moment was when she was called to take her place on the stool to be sorted. She could feel the eyes of everyone in the room upon her, and her cheeks burned with a blush she couldn't control. Fortunately, the Sorting Hat came to a quick decision and she was able to take her seat at the Gryffindor table. Ginny gave her a high five and introduced some of her friends, and finally Amanda was able to relax.
Late into the night, Amanda lay awake in her bed thinking over the events of the day and those yet to come. Why had so many students failed to clap for the Headmaster and the new teachers? Ginny especially had looked positively disgusted as the Headmaster spoke. And why did there seem to be so much gloom on what was supposed to be a happy occasion? What were the whispers she heard about students not coming back? And most importantly, what was it going to be like in a classroom with a bunch of strangers? Her mind kept racing until her body finally forced her to sleep.
Next morning at breakfast, Amanda was enjoying a glass of pumpkin juice when Professor McGonagall came by, passing out schedules. She took hers eagerly and scanned the text. "Muggle Studies?" she asked in bewilderment.
"All new students are now required to take Muggle Studies, Miss Pittman." McGonagall said sternly.
"Oh, um, ok. I was surprised is all." She wasn't disappointed; she'd been fascinated with Muggles and their queer habits as long as she could remember. With any luck that would serve her well in class.
The first class of the day was Divination. Amanda was delighted to find that Luna was in the class as well. She motioned Amanda to come sit with her in a pair of overstuffed armchairs.
"I'm glad you're here. Most people don't like to talk to me. You won't either, once you make new friends." This was said in such a matter of fact way that Amanda was at a loss for how to reply. She was saved by the entrance of Professor Trelawney.
The whole day flew by more quickly than Amanda could have imagined. It was very different, being in classes with a lot of other students, but so far she liked all of her professors. Well, all of them except that creepy Carrow. She wasn't sure exactly what seemed so off about him; maybe it was the contempt he seemed to have for Muggles. All she was sure of was that it was going to be her least favorite class.
Her favorite by far was Herbology. Professor Sprout was so funny but also knowledgeable. As she left the greenhouse, Amanda reflected that she was sure to learn a lot about her favorite subject this year. She was so deep in thought about what she would choose for her special project that she almost walked into Neville.
"Oh! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"
"That's OK." The blond boy smiled. "How was your class?"
"Good. Really good. But I was surprised that there were so few other students in it."
"It's not exactly a popular subject."
"I don't know why not, plants are fascinating. Some of the things Professor Sprout said we would work with this year, I never even heard of before. But what brings you here?"
"Just helping out in the greenhouse. I promised to get some things ready for the first years. Professor Sprout has a lot to do, she always welcomes extra hands."
"Hmm." Amanda thought a moment. "Do you think she'd let me help, too? I kind of miss my garden at home."
"I bet she'd be thrilled. Why don't you go ask her?"
"OK, I will. Thanks." She smiled and walked back into the greenhouse, hoping the professor hadn't yet left.
Fortunately, she was still there and quickly accepted Amanda's offer. "Longbottom knows what needs to be done. Just ask him and he'll put you to work."