After exiting the train, Harry and his friends decide to take the horseless carts for a ride up to the Hogwarts Castle. The cool breeze sweeps through their hair as they approach the majestic castle.
Daphne: "It's always so breathtaking, isn't it?"
Hermione: "Yes, it never gets old."
Harry: "Agreed."
As they reach the entrance of the castle, they separate to join their respective house tables. Harry, Daphne, and Hermione find seats together at the Ravenclaw table. They eagerly await the Sorting Hat ceremony, excited to see which house the new students will be sorted into.
The Sorting Hat begins its work, and they clap for Luna when she is sorted into Ravenclaw. They also applaud for the other first years as they join their respective houses.
When Professor McGonagall reads Ginny's name, Harry recognizes her as the redhead girl he has seen with the Weasley family. He can't help but notice her intense gaze, which annoys him every time he encounters the Weasley family.
Harry: "That's the girl from the Weasleys."
Daphne: "The one who always stares at you?"
Harry: "Yes, her. Let's see where she gets sorted."
They watch with curiosity as the Sorting Hat seems to take an unusually long time before shouting "Gryffindor!" Ginny appears upset by the Sorting Hat's choice but reluctantly makes her way to the Gryffindor table.
After the sorting, Headmaster Dumbledore, with his characteristic twinkle in his eyes, welcomes the students to a new year at Hogwarts. He gives some instructions, especially about the prohibition of certain prank items, a clear reference to the Weasley Twins.
With that, Dumbledore starts the welcoming feast. The tables are soon filled with delicious dishes, and students indulge in hearty portions.
After finishing their dinner, Harry, Daphne, and Hermione make their way to the Ravenclaw common room. Like previous year, Harry speaks with his family through the two-way mirror. He holds the mirror up to his face, and the image of his mother Lily, godfather Sirius, Uncle Remus, and grandparents Lyall and Hope Lupin appears on the other side, along with his Aunt Marlene.
Harry: "It's good to be back."
Sirius: "Indeed, Harry. Another year at Hogwarts awaits."
Remus: "And let's make the most of it."
Lily: "Harry, dear, how was your train journey? And tell me, how was the welcoming feast?"
Harry: "The train journey was fine, Mum. We took the horseless carts to the castle, and the welcoming feast was just as grand as ever."
Hope: "That's lovely to hear, Harry. Did anything unusual happen during the feast?"
Harry: "Well, the Sorting Hat took an unusually long time with one of the new students, Ginny Weasley. She ended up in Gryffindor, but she didn't seem too happy about it."
Lyall: "Ginny Weasley? Isn't that one of the children from the Weasley family."
Harry: "Yes, Granddad, that's her. She was giving me a strange look during the feast, too."
Marlene: "Speaking of the feast, Harry, did they serve your favorite dessert?"
They continue their conversation, discussing the train journey, the feast, and the curious events of the evening until Harry becomes tired and goes to sleep.