Chapter 20: The Late Arrival
Tom wanted to scoff and correct the hat. But the hat shouted before he could.
"Slytherin!"
It was removed swiftly, and Tom walked wordlessly towards the cheering table of green where Abraxas, Lucretia, and Walburga waited for him.
"Isn't this nice, we sat together in the train, and now we are here together again in the same house." Abraxas commented cheerfully. Tom gave a small shrug, and half-heartedly listened to the conversation Abraxas had with the two girls and the upper years. He allowed his mind to wander as the long procession of sorting students continued.
"And ladies and gentlemen, that concludes the sorting ceremony. Again, I welcome you to-"
"Wait!"
The doors of the great hall opened and a small hooded black figure tumbled in.
"Ah excuse me, I got lost on the way here. I tripped and when I got up the group was gone." A soft, though frantic voice cut through the crowd. Tom looked towards the figure in curiosity, though the many people before him prevented him from having a clear view of the new arrival.
Headmaster Dippet cleared his throat. "Ah, I must say that the names on the list for sorting have all been read. Are you sure you are at the right place?" He asked.
"Huh? Ah yes. Here is my Hogwarts letter. The figure quickly ran across the great hall, a small white letter in hand. Headmaster Dippet eyed the letter critically before handing it to Dumbledore. At Dumbledore's nod, he gave a thoughtful frown and spoke. "Curious indeed. May I ask your name, student?"
The figure pulled down the hood, and black hair tumbled out.
"It's Harry sir."