September 1st, 1991 – King's Cross Station, London, England.

Alexander was standing in front of the square column between platforms nine and ten. McGonagall had dropped him off at 10:15 in the morning at the station, she told him how to get onto the platform and gave him his ticket, then she had left, apparently, she had matters to attend to given that all the students would be arriving today at Hogwarts. He had borrowed a cart from the reception in the train station and had placed his new trunk on it. Today he was dressed in black sweatpants and a navy t-shirt. During the four months he spent at social services they had provided him with food and clothes.

Alexander had nodded goodbye at Sarah and a couple of kids before he left with McGonagall, they had traveled by apparition this time as well, it had become increasingly easier, but he still found the sensation nasty. He steadied himself, ready to run when he heard a guard speaking rudely at someone. – "You think you're being funny, are you?" The guard had spat the words before turning around and leaving.

Alexander adverted his sight to where he had heard the sound as the guard left a boy was left alone there, he was pushing a cart, like him, he had a trunk a tad bigger than his, a couple of boxes wrapped in paper and a large cage with a beautiful snow-white owl.

Alexander watched as the kid slumped, he was small and skinny, with a thin face. He had untidy jet-black hair, and almond shaped green eyes behind a pair of round-rimmed glasses that seemed to be held together by a piece of tape. He was dressed in clothes that were definitely way too big for him, the sleeves of the shirt he was wearing went beyond his small hands.

Alexander refrained himself from looking into the boy's mind, so instead he made his way towards him. – "Hi, are you going to Hogwarts?" He asked, taking the leap, if it wasn't the case he would just leave and go onto the platform.

The boy's eyes shot open. – "Yes. I was hopping I'd run into someone that was going there too, it's my first time and I don't know how to get into the platform."

Alexander nodded in understanding. – "Are you alone then?" The boy nodded his head. – "Okay, it is my first time going to Hogwarts as well. We are supposed to go through there." He gestured towards the wall between platforms nine and ten.

- "Through?" The boy asked. Alexander nodded. – "As in, through the wall?"

Alexander couldn't help but snort lightly, it was slightly amusing, that was kind of the same reaction he gathered people would expect from him and instead found themselves looking at a stoic face he always held, even when he first witnessed magic. He composed himself immediately. – "Sorry, I don't mean to be rude. I'm new to magic as well, I know it's a lot to take in."

The boy shook his head smiling. – "Don't worry about it." Now that they were shoulder to shoulder Alexander could see this boy though small was still almost three inches taller than him, he always knew he was pretty frail, it doesn't really bother him, but it was a detail he noticed, most eleven-year-old kids were at least four or five inches taller than him.

Alexander ran a hand through his sandy blonde curls, they were getting in his eyes, he composed himself and nodded at the boy beside him. – "Shall we go onto the platform then? I was advised to run a bit if I felt too nervous about crossing the barrier, maybe that'll help you."

The boy nodded his head before they walked to the same spot Alexander had been standing on initially, he noticed that this particular place seemed to repulse the sight of muggles and even their presence, he had noticed they never stepped here. – "Alright, do you want to go first?" He asked at the boy.

The boy nodded his head, and looked forward determinedly, he muttered some words to his owl before he started running towards the wall, just as he was near enough, he seamlessly passed through it, as if he had never been there. Alexander watched carefully and remained calm. He waited for a couple of seconds before walking towards the wall, his intent clear in getting across. He didn't run, he wasn't actually nervous, so he didn't deem it necessary.

The sensation was not unpleasant at all, it is as if one was walking through a warm cloth, completely different to how apparition felt. After a second, Alexander emerged from to the other side of the wall, now in platform nine and three quarters. The place was bustling with energy, there were several families, wizards and witches were, apparently, very punctual. Loads of children and teenagers preparing to board the Hogwarts Express. He started walking once he spotted the green-eyed boy.

Alexander walked until he was beside him. – "That wasn't so bad, right?" He asked lightly, maintaining his calm demeanor.

The boy turned to him, his eyes sparkling with excitement. – "No, it wasn't. That was amazing, I've never felt anything quite like it."

Alexander nodded his head in understanding. – "I know."

The boy looked at Alexander, noticing his composed stance and calm demeanor. – "You seem like you've been around magic for a while. Are you from a wizarding family?" He asked curiously.

Alexander shook his head lightly. – "I am a muggle-born." He stated, the eyes of the boy shot open. – "But I've had time to… let's say prepare for all magical things." He replied vaguely, he didn't really want to delve into his personal history. He instead glanced at the Hogwarts Express, it was a big train but looked very much older than the other trains he had seen at the muggle side of the station, it was well maintained, its red and black painting was flawless and the whole body of the train shined as if it had been recently waxed.

The boy nodded his head. – "I see." He didn't want to comment on the fact that, like him, he appeared to be completely alone here. There was no sign of his parents. They stood there for a second, a silent understanding between them.

Alexander was very fond of silence, but he knew that not speaking to someone beside you like this could be considered rude. He adverted his sight to the cage on the boy's cart. – "That's a beautiful owl." He stated warmly.

The boy's face lit up with pride. – "Oh, thank you! Her name is Hedwig, she was a gift. She's been with me for some time now." The boy noticed that Alexander carried only a single trunk in his cart, and it was even smaller than his.

- "She is very pretty." Alexander stated. – "Maybe we should leave our trunks in the cargo compartment, we should hurry, the train is likely to get full any minute now." He glanced at the boy. – "I haven't introduced myself, sorry. I'm Alexander Whitmore." He finished nodding.

The boy smiled and extended his hand. – "I'm Harry, Harry Potter." Alexander eyed the hand, he wasn't extremely comfortable with touching people or being touched for that matter, but he didn't want to be rude, he took it and gave it a firm shake.

Alexander knew, of course, a bit about Harry Potter, The Boy Who Lived. He had already read all the Modern Magical History book he had bought in Diagon Alley. He reserved himself for commenting on it, at least now he could imagine Harry wouldn't like being bombarded by silly questions and words of worship, he knows he wouldn't like it.

After they had made their way to the cargo compartment and left their stuff there. Both boys made sure to take a bag that contained their change of clothes, there was also a special place reserved for pets, Harry left Hedwig there. They boarded the train; families were still saying goodbye and they didn't really have anyone to say goodbye too. Alexander noticed how Harry's shoulders slumped a bit when they passed a particularly loving mother saying goodbye to her daughter. He could guess, without having to use legilimency on Harry, that he longed for familial love, he on the other hand had already grown out of longing for that.

There were some people already in the compartments, Alexander noticed that Harry wasn't particularly eager to share a compartment with anyone else either, so they kept walking through the train until they reached an empty compartment almost at the very end. They placed their belongings in the space over their heads and sat in silence for a second, just taking in the moment, it wasn't an uncomfortable silence, as in both boys understood they needed a moment to collect their thoughts.

Hogwarts Express – On Route.

Soon enough it was eleven o'clock and the train came to life, leaving the platform, Alexander and Harry looked towards the corridor of the train, where several children were now perched, yelling goodbyes at their families. – "Hey, Harry." Alexander diverged the green-eyed boy's attention to himself. – "Have you given any thought on what could become your favorite subject?" He asked, trying to find an easy enough subject for conversation.

Harry shook his head. – "I'm not really sure, I haven't given it much thought." Harrys stated, now mostly thinking about this and not how he had no one to say goodbye to. – "Though I am excited for the flying lessons. It's kind of a shame we are not allowed a broom, although I don't have one."

They conversed for some time about the courses they would be taking and what new experiences they could have. – "Are you taking the Magical Theory course?" Alexander asked after some minutes of conversation. – "I was told that it is encouraged, and well, I personally find magical theory to be fascinating."

Harry nodded his head. – "I probably should, given that this is my first time experiencing magic, besides the bits of accidental magic that I've had."

Alexander nodded. – "What have been some things you have done, if I may ask?"

Harry pondered for a moment. – "Well, there was this time I teleported somewhere… and one time I changed the color of my sixth-grade teacher, she had brown hair and I turned it blue… Oh, I also spoke with a snake once and made a glass window disappear and then reappear out of thin air."

Alexander listed to him with his usual calmed face, there was one comment that surprised him, if Harry had spoken with a snake once, that meant he is a parseltoungue… and for what he has read that normally wasn't well viewed. – "What about you?" Harry asked.

Alexander took a breath, pondering what to answer. – "Well, the very worst case of accidental magic I've had was when I made a bench combust into flames, it was made of metal and I completely melted it, other than that I have sometimes made things move without touching them, not intentionally."

- "Excuse me…" Came a voice from the door of the compartment. Alexander and Harry directed their attention to the source, it was a boy, with red hair and pale complexion, he had blue eyes, bluer than Alexander's that almost appeared gray and was a lot taller than them, about three inches taller than Alexander. – "Do you mind? Everywhere else is full." He finished gently. He was also carrying a small cage, his pet.

Harry shook his head. – "Not at all." He gestured towards the seat next to his, the compartment could easily accommodate six people, so there was still plenty of space.

The boy nodded and smiled before entering the compartment, he took a seat on Harry's side, placing the cage over his lap. – "I'm Ron, by the way. Ron Weasley." He introduced himself nodding at both Alexander and Harry.

- "I'm Harry. Harry Potter." Harry introduced himself.

Ron's face changed immediately, going from a warm smile to an open mouth shocked expression, as if he was in absolute awe. – "So, it's true! I-I mean… do you really have the…?" Ron gestured to his head with his right hand. Alexander was watching the whole exchange silently, he imagined this was the kind of reaction Harry got every time he said who he was. Harry frowned in confusion, Ron leaned closer and whispered. – "The scar?" The compartment suddenly felt tense, and Alexander could sense Harry's discomfort. He shifted slightly in his seat, ready to intervene if the situation escalated. Harry hesitated for a moment, clearly not used to such direct inquiries about his scar. After a brief pause, he nodded with a smile and pulled back his hair to reveal the lightning-bolt-shaped scar on his forehead. – "Wicked!" Ron stated in awe. Harry chuckled nervously before letting go of his hair, his scar now covered by it.

Harry turned to Alexander. – "This is Alexander Whitmore."

Ron nodded at Alexander. – "Pleasure to meet you, Ron." Alexander greeted with a warm smile. – "Do you have some experience with magic?" He asked, trying to take Ron's focus out of the fact that he had just met Harry Potter.

Ron nodded his head. – "Well, my parents do magic all the time, but it's not like I am allowed to, my brothers practice some spells at home too, but nothing too dangerous."

Soon it became clear to Alexander that he didn't really need to push Ron's focus, he was after all just like them a kid, and kids can find making friends very easy. Alexander could see that Ron's easygoing and friendly nature was a good match for Harry's more reserved yet amiable disposition. As they chatted, Ron shared some amusing anecdotes about his family, painting a lively picture of life at the Weasley household. His stories were filled with colorful descriptions of magical mishaps and adventures, and both Harry and Alexander found themselves chuckling at Ron's lively storytelling, though Harry's laughter was fuller, Alexander not used to smile or laughing that much for that matter only chuckled lightly, but genuinely.

Ron knew enough about Harry Potter to know that he didn't have any parents, at least not his birth parents, so when he finished telling stories about his family his focus shifted to the other boy in the compartment. – "What about you, Alexander? Do your parents do magic all the time, have you practiced some spells?"

Alexander tensed slightly, but otherwise maintained his calmed demeanor, Harry was about to speak, but Alexander beat him to it. – "No." He stated plainly. – "Well, I don't have parents, and I am muggle-born so these are my first experiences with magic."

Ron's smile fell immediately. – "Oh. Sorry I didn't mean to…"

- "It's okay." Alexander interrupted him. – "There's no need to apologize. I never met them; I can't really miss them." Though his mind didn't really wander to his birth parents by Ron's question. He noticed Ron seemed still uncomfortable, probably worried he had somehow hurt him or offended him. – "Don't worry about it, Ron, it's fine."

- "I'm really sorry." Ron stated.

Alexander nodded. – "I know, it's okay."

Just in time for a change of ambience a cart full of all kinds of sweets and candy made itself present at the door of the compartment. An old lady dressed in an apron and a matching hat was pushing it. – "Do you want anything of the trolley dears?" She asked in a sweet voice.

Alexander shook his head immediately, he wasn't one to eat loads of candy, or sugar for that matter. Besides the fact that it is very hard to give oneself the luxury of eating candy if you are living on the streets, he has also come to appreciate the nutritional value of the stuff he eats, even if it tastes horribly.

Ron on the other hand looked like he wanted to buy something, but shook his head as well, he looked through his pocket and took out what appeared to be a sandwich that had definitely seen better days, it was mushed, he probably sat on it at some point. – "No thanks." Ron stated, raising the sandwich. – "I'm all set."

Alexander frowned, sweets and candy were the last thing he would personally spend his money on, but looking at Ron's face he thought differently, he had started looking through his pocket to retrieve the pouch of galleons he carried. – "We'll take the lot." Harry stated suddenly, causing him to halt his movements.

Alexander watched as Harry took some coins out of his pocket, several golden coins and a couple of sickles. – "Whoa." Ron stated in awe, watching the money. Alexander chuckled lightly, he guessed Harry was thinking the same thing, otherwise there would be no need to buy everything. The lady nodded her head and started taking three pieces of each sweet she had and laying them on the seat Harry was sitting at. At the end Harry was short two sickles to buy everything he intended; he was about to give back some of the items before Alexander placed the two sickles in his palm. Harry smiled at him and paid the lady, who left soon after.

Harry smiled at the other two boys in the compartment. – "Please, take whatever you want." He stated warmly.

Ron apparently didn't need to be told twice and immediately started going through the sweets and opening a pack of 'Licorice Wands', Alexander on the other hand stayed still. Harry had settled for a pack of pink coconut ice, since the name seemed straightforward.

- "Do you not want anything?" Harry asked after taking one of the shimmering pink squares and putting it in his mouth.

Alexander eyed the different options of candy and wrinkled his nose slightly. – "I'm not very fond of sugar." He answered.

Ron looked at him, his mouth full. – "Then you can have some pumpkin pasties." He stated with a mouthful, causing Alexander to wrinkle his nose more in slight discomfort, he was educated very early on to not speak with his mouth full. Ron gestured towards the pasties.

Alexander eyed the pasties, they looked simple enough, and pumpkin wasn't always extremely sweet. – "That is probably the thing that feels more like actual healthy food here." Ron finished after swallowing.

Alexander nodded his head and took one of the pasties, carefully opening the package and giving it a tentative bite. It was a nice taste, and after he swallowed it, he could tell that this particular pasty was very fulfilling, though food on the social services building he had last been in was far from the worst things he has had to eat, this pumpkin pasty tasted amazing compared to most things he had eaten. – "Oh. This is very good." He stated, going in for another bite, they weren't as big as what Ron was doing, Alexander tended to eat carefully and taste the food as much as he could unless it was downright horrible.

Harry and Ron smiled at him before continuing to eat. They had small conversations, about what to expect from the school year, the houses they could be sorted in and some bits of how wizards handled their daily lives, compared to how Harry and Alexander had been doing. Alexander found himself gradually opening up to the boys, sharing bits and pieces of his own experiences and thoughts, though he still maintained a certain level of reservation.

Some hours pass, the sun had clearly lowered as they travelled through the countryside. – "Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans?" Harry asked, taking a box from the pile of sweets still preset between him and Ron.

Ron was still eating, Alexander had wondered several times during the last hours where was it Ron was putting all the candy he was devouring, granted he had a bulkier build than him and Harry, but he wasn't obese in any way. – "Ron… how is it you're still eating?" Alexander asked in slight awe.

Ron chuckled slightly before shrugging. – "They mean every flavor." He addressed Harry. Ron's pet, now revealed to be a very fat and big rat was munching through another of those bean's boxes on Ron's lap.

- "There's chocolate and peppermint." Ron continued. – "And there's also… spinach, liver and tripe." Harry had just put one of the beans on his mouth, he started making a disgusted face by what Ron was explaining, the one he had put on his mouth tasted like chocolate.

- "George swears he ate a booger-flavored one once." Ron finished, his face not having any sort of indication he was teasing, so Alexander and Harry gathered that he was being serious and that was just a natural occurrence in the wizarding world.

Harry immediately lowered the box, losing any interest in continuing to eat the beans, he turned towards Alexander and offered him some, with a teasing smile on his face. Alexander eyed the box and then looked at Harry, with a small smile of his own. – "Absolutely not." He stated. Harry chuckled and set the box down in the seat.

Harry looked through the pile and settled in a blue box. – Chocolate Frog – It read. – "This aren't real frogs, are they?" Harry asked.

Ron shook his head. – "It's just a spell. Besides, it's the card you want." Harry nodded in understanding. – "Each pack's got a famous witch or wizard. I've got about five hundred myself."

Harry opened the package, to reveal a small frog, it would probably fit in the palm of his hand, it all seemed ordinary until the frog started moving. It looked around for a second, Alexander was watching intently the apparent alive chocolate piece, then it suddenly jumped towards the window, trying to escape. Alexander was faster and caught with his right hand effortlessly.

- "Nice reflexes." Ron congratulated him. Alexander smiled and nodded before giving the frog back to Harry. The later was a bit apprehensive to eating it. – "It's not really alive, Harry." Ron stated, noticing his discomfort.

Harry nodded his head and looked back at the frog, apparently after being caught it had remained still, now it was unmoving. He took a bite, taking off its head, first, so if there was any type of suffering it will end quickly, there was no resistance. – "This is the best chocolate I've had in my life." That was not saying much, given that he rarely got any treats, but still it was delicious.

He finished the chocolate and looked at the card on the box, which featured Albus Dumbledore. – "Oh! I've got Dumbledore!" Harry stated, he remembers Hagrid stating that he considered him the greatest headmaster Hogwarts has ever had.

- "I've got about six of him." Ron stated. Harry raised his glance from the card to look at Ron.

When he lowered his sight again, Dumbledore's image was now a plain black square. – "Hey. He's gone." Harry stated, confused.

- "Well, you can expect him just to stand there, can you?" Ron answered, as it was the simplest of things, Harry tilted the card towards Alexander, indeed there was no one in the picture now. Alexander shrugged.

Ron turned his sight to the rat on his lap. – "This is Scabbers, by the way." He stated, picking it up and showing it to the other two in the compartment. He put it down again, the rat wasted no time and stuck its head in the box of beans again. – "Pathetic, isn't he?" Ron asked, still looking at the fat rat.

- "Erm, a bit." Alexander stated. – "Sorry."

Ron shook his head. – "I know, right. He just eats, sleeps, and takes a dump." He stated, chuckling lightly.

Alexander chuckled as well. – "Well, it's a rat it can't do much more." Harry nodded in agreement. – "Maybe you shouldn't let him eat all that candy. I know rats can eat pretty much anything, but you know if you want him to be healthy."

Ron shrugs. – "This rat has been in my family for twelve years now, it doesn't look any closer to dying."

Alexander tilted his head a bit, rats didn't normally leave that long, well maybe it was magic, it wasn't just a rat. – "My brother Fred taught me a spell to turn him yellow, want to see?" He asked, looking at Harry and then at Alexander.

- "Yeah." Harry answered immediately, excited. Alexander nodded his head, looking a bit excited himself, color changing was advanced magic for a first year.

Ron smiled and took out his wand, it looked very beat and dirty, it was a wand made of Ash, that wood is normally very light colored, can look almost yellow, it had a unicorn tail hair as a core that stuck out at the end of the handle. It was simple enough a clean shaft that narrowed at its tip and the handle was distinguished by two lines that had a minor depth, it had another at the handle's tip. Ron cleared his throat, raising the wand. – "Sun…" He started, but their attention was adverted when a figure appeared on the compartment's door.

It was a girl; she was already dressed in the uniform robes. Alexander got initially captivated by her, he had seen other girls his age, of course, but he thought this girl was pretty. She had bushy brown curly hair, had fair skin, just like his, maybe a just a shade darker a pale beige, rather than a pale ivory like himself. But what captivated him was her eyes, she had bright brown eyes that seemed to sparkle as she eyed the compartment, her front teeth were a tad big. She had a backpack that seemed full of books. – "Has anyone seen a toad?" She asked, her voice was a bit bossy, but warm, nonetheless. – "A boy named Neville's lost one."

Alexander limited himself to shaking his head, the girl nodded in understanding and then her eyes fell on Ron who still had his wand in hand. – "Oh, are you doing magic? Let's see then."

Alexander could see Ron was now a bit uncomfortable. – "Sunshine, daisies, butter mellow. Turn this stupid, fat rat yellow." He stated pointing his wand at his rat. There was a small light coming out of the tip of his wand, signifying some sort of magic was happening, but besides that, nothing happened. Ron 's face turned a little pink, clearly embarrassed. This was probably another one of his brother's jokes. Alexander watched intently the rat, the light on the wand clearly indicated that magi happened, just not as it should be, or the spell had less power than it needed.

After a moment, the girl spoke up from the doorway. – "Are you sure that's a real spell? Well, it's not very good, is it?" Her tone was matter of fact, and Ron's ears turned even redder. He lowered his wand sheepishly, and the rat, seemingly oblivious to the attempted magic, continued to rummage through the candy.

Alexander smiled warmly at Ron. – "Are you sure you put up enough intent?" He asked plainly.

Ron frowned in confusion, as well as Harry, they didn't understand what that meant. – "It's just…" Alexander stated. – "For what I've read, a successful spell has three parts, power, skill and intent." Ron watched Alexander intently, as did Harry, Hermione on the other hand was slightly impressed, she had read that too, in the Magical Theory book, she had been speaking with some other first years before going to look for Neville's toad, and none had the same interest in magic as her. – "You have to will it to happen." Alexander continued. – "Sometimes spells need more intent than any of the other parts. That's actually what happens with spells that are trickier, and color changing is tricky." Alexander finished, the moment Ron started the incantation he guessed that Fred, Ron's brother, was just pulling a prank on Ron, he refrained to comment on this, because he also understood that incantation and wand movement are just a way to facilitate magic happening, given it follows certain rules, but they weren't necessary for magic to happen.

The girl seemed impressed by Alexander's explanation. She stepped into the compartment, her eyes scanning the three boys curiously. – "You seem to know quite a bit about magic." She remarked, a hint of admiration in her voice. – "I've read about intent as well, but I've never met anyone who's actually applied it practically." She passed by Alexander and took a seat in front of Harry.

- "Of course, I've only tried a few simple spells myself… but they've all worked for me." She took her wand out of her robes, the wand was made of vine, it had a Dragon heartstring core, it was a clear wood shade, light brown and had a vine design from the tip of its handle up until the middle of its shaft, unlike Ron's this wand was clearly new, or very well taken care of. She pointed her wand at Harry's face. – "For example." Alexander tensed immediately, Harry being at the receiving end of the wand tensed as well, his eyes focusing on the tip of the wand. Ron on the other hand appeared nonchalant, though he was carefully looking at what was happening. – "Oculus Reparo." The girl stated finally.

Harry's glasses shined for a second, before the tape that was holding them together disappeared. – "That's better, isn't it?" The girl asked him, smiling warmly. Harry took off his glasses and inspected them carefully, they looked like new.

When he took off his glasses, his hair moved slightly, revealing his scar to the girl who had been watching him intently. – "Holy cricket." She stated. – "You're Harry Potter." She finished. – "I've read about you, you're in Modern Magical History."

Harry recoiled slightly, putting his glasses on again. – "I'm Hermione Granger." The girl introduced herself. Then looked at Alexander and Ron. – "And you are?"

- "Ron Weasley." Ron introduced himself. He had started eating a bar of chocolate, his mouth was full. Hermione made a very slight disgusted face at him eating with a mouthful.

Alexander nodded curtly at Hermione. – "Alexander Whitmore."

Hermione smiled. – "Pleasure." She turned to Harry again. – "You three better change into robes. I expect we'll be arriving soon." She stated before standing up and leaving the compartment, after all she was still looking for a toad.

Alexander watched her leave. – "I'll go change." He stated, standing up from his seat and taking his bag with him.

Harry and Ron were left alone, they made some small talk, commenting on how it appeared that Hermione and Alexander were more familiar with magic than them, Ron joked how he usually sees magic every day but apparently barely know how it works. A moment later the compartment door opened, but it wasn't who they were expecting. Three boys entered the compartment, Harry recognized the one that was standing in the middle, the blonde boy with blue eyes and pale skin, his hair was still slicked back with gel, these three boys were also dressed in robes. The other two were considerably bigger than the rest, they looked a lot more robust as well.

- "So, it's true." The boy in the middle stated. – "Harry Potter, it's you right?" he asked, gesturing at Harry.

The tone this boy was using wasn't warm or kind for that matter, it sounded more mocking than anything. – "Yes." Harry answered.

- "This is Crabbe." The blonde boy gestured with his head to the boy on his right, the one that was slightly less fat than the other. – "And this is Goyle." He gestured to the other. – "And I am Malfoy. Draco Malfoy."

Ron coughed slightly. – "You think my name is funny, do you?" Draco stated in an annoyed voice, laced with mockery. – "I don't even have to ask yours, hand me down clothes, ginger hair, with freckles." He stated gesturing at Ron. – "You must be a Weasley, my father has told me your family likes having more children than they can afford."

Draco turned his attention to Harry again. – "You will come to find out that some families are better than others, Potter." He gestured to Ron. – "You wouldn't want to be mixed with the wrong sort." He extended his hand towards Harry, trying to initiate a handshake. – "I can help you with that."

Harry remained still. – "I can tell the wrong sort for myself, thank you." He stated coldly, he was mad, Draco had plain right insulted Ron.

Draco frowned, indagated he had been rejected like this. – "I would be careful if I was you, Potter." He stated plainly. – "Unless you are kinder you will follow your parents' footsteps. They didn't seem to know what was good for them either. Keep these… lowlifes…" He stated, in a slight disgusted tone. – "And you'll end up like that."

That was it. Harry and Ron were on their feet at the same time. Ron's face was as red as his hair. – "Repeat that, go on." Ron stated menacingly. Harry wasn't pleased at all at how Draco kept insulting Ron.

- "You heard me perfectly well. I said what I meant." Draco answered, with a smirk, he took a step closer, the other two that apparently followed him like bodyguards stepped as well. – "Oh…" He stated mockingly, noticing the way Ron was tightening his fists. – "Are you going to fight us?"

- "If you don't leave right now…" Harry stated, with more courage than he was actually feeling, besides the fact that the odds weren't on their favor, given that they were three and it was just Ron and him, Crabbe and Goyle were significantly bigger than Ron and him.

Alexander was making his way back to the compartment, now changed into robes, that fit him perfectly, he had pocketed his wand neatly in the designed place in the interior of the robe, he turned in the doorway of the compartment and immediately realized the tension was palpable. Ron and Harry's face were very contorted with anger, and Ron's was particularly red. He stepped inside the compartment, silently with the intruders' backs to him they didn't notice him until he was beside Crabbe, he carefully placed his bag on his seat and stepped between the two groups. – "Is there a problem here?" He asked, his voice low and calm, not coated with the slightest hint of fear.

As Alexander stands between the two groups, his gaze remains steady, his expression unwavering. He positions himself in such a way that he subtly conveys both his readiness to defend his friends and his intention to resolve the conflict without violence. – "Who might you be?" Draco asked.

Alexander remained still. – "It's not polite to answer a question with another one." He took a step forward, he was acting as a barrier and with that made it slightly more effective, Draco was bigger than him, his bodyguards a whole head taller as well, but Alexander was no stranger to physical confrontations, though he despised them. – "Is there a problem here?" He repeated his initial question.

Draco's sneer deepened as he regarded Alexander, clearly unaccustomed to being challenged in this manner. Crabbe and Goyle shifted uneasily, clearly unsure how to proceed with this unexpected interruption. Alexander's composed demeanor and firm stance seemed to unsettle them. Draco, however, was not so easily swayed. – "Do you know who I am?" He questioned, clearly annoyed now.

Alexander tilted his head, his expression stoic. – "I'm sorry, should we order some tea so we can introduce ourselves?" He stated in a plain, but mocking voice, gesturing at himself and Draco.

Draco's face contorted with frustration at Alexander's composed yet mocking response. He took a step forward, causing Alexander to straighten his stance further, maintaining a cool and collected demeanor. The compartment was now filled with an intense silence, only punctuated by the heavy breathing of the two opposing groups. Ron and Harry remained tensed, ready to defend themselves if needed, but Alexander's calm presence seemed to diffuse some of the tension in the air. – "Watch yourself, you little…" Draco began, his voice tinged with malice.

Alexander narrowed his eyes, urging Draco to finish what he was about to say. – "I suggest you three leave." Alexander stated after a few seconds of silence and letting out a breath. – "There is no need for this to escalate any further."

Draco smirked, apparently that is what he wanted, someone to give in first, and that it'd not be him. He adverted his sight to the pile of sweets and candy to his left. – "But we don't want to leave, right boys?" He stated mockingly. – "We already ate all we have, and you seem to have plenty."

Goyle stepped and leaned down to pick a Chocolate Frog. Ron was about to jump at him, despite the size difference, but before he could touch him, Alexander had beat him to it. Alexander had grabbed Goyle's hand and had twisted it until it was about to snap. Goyle screamed in agony, his position now compromised, Alexander on the other hand was grabbing his hand very firmly with his right, his expression just as unamused as before. – "Perhaps I didn't make myself clear." He stated plainly.

Draco's eyes widened as he witnessed the swift and decisive action, his initial confidence faltering in the face of Alexander's unexpected physical prowess. A boy that was smaller, and looked thin, was subduing Goyle, who was mostly muscle and fat. Crabbe stepped forward, his expression contorted with anger, ready to retaliate, but when Alexander turned towards him, daring him to keep moving, the intensity of his gaze seemed to give him pause. Harry and Ron, though still tense, seemed relieved that Alexander had taken control of the situation. – "You will end up on the floor." Alexander stated.

The compartment was now filled with a tense silence, Goyle's pained cries breaking the stillness. Draco's eyes widened at the sudden turn of events, realization dawning on him that Alexander was not to be underestimated. Ron and Harry remained still, taken aback by the sudden display of force. Alexander maintained his grip on Goyle's hand, but he didn't exert any unnecessary pressure.

Just then, Scabbers started climbing Draco's left leg, the latter noticed the movement and lowered his sight towards his leg. Draco shirked, screaming, and kicked, Alexander remained still, not letting go of Goyle's hand until Scabbers went flying towards the opened window of the compartment, only then Alexander let go of Goyle, who stepped back immediately. Alexander extended his hand swiftly and caught the rat with his left hand, avoiding a tragedy. Draco had left the compartment running, Crabbe and Goyle soon followed suit.

Alexander watched in silence as the intruders left, he kept watching, making sure they were not coming back and then turned to Ron and Harry. – "Are you okay?" He asked both, carefully extending his hand, Ron raised his hands as well to receive Scabbers.

Ron examined the rat, making sure it was okay. He looked at the open window, now realizing the destiny that awaited his pet had Alexander not caught it. – "What happened?" Came a voice from the door, it was Hermione.

- "Thank you for taking care of Scabbers." Ron said, finally regaining his composure." – "I don't know what I would have done if something happened to him."

Alexander nodded in understanding. – "Of course. I'm just glad I was able to catch him in time." He glanced at Hermione, who was observing the interaction with a mixture of concern and curiosity. – "We had a little run-in with…" Then he realized he didn't even know the name of who he was standing up to.

- "Draco Malfoy." Harry finished for him. – "Things got a little heated, but Alexander handled it."

Hermione's eyes widened. – "I heard the commotion." She stated her gaze on Alexander. – "You were fighting. You're going to be in trouble before we even arrive." She stated in her bossy voice.

Ron immediately frowned. – "No, hang on…" He started, ready to defend Alexander.

Alexander raised a hand to stop Ron. – "It wasn't a fight, Hermione. I just made sure they understood they weren't welcome here." He stated calmly. Hermione appeared slightly taken aback by Alexander's composed response. By their previous interaction she had gathered he was very calmed, and smart. But he was calmed even when being accused.

Harry stepped in, addressing Hermione. – "We were just defending ourselves, and Alexander intervened before anything serious happened." He gestured towards Alexander with a nod, a subtle show of appreciation for his timely intervention.

Hermione still appeared hesitant; her brows furrowed in concern. – "But you used magic, didn't you?" She asked, a hint of worry in her voice. – "You can't be hexing people like that."

Alexander shook his head lightly, he was getting a bit exasperated by Hermione's accusations, but he understood where she came from. – "I didn't use magic. I just made sure they knew I wasn't afraid to stand my ground."

Ron piped up, eager to diffuse the tension. – "Yeah, Hermione, you should have seen him. He had Goyle's hand twisted before he knew it. It was brilliant." Ron's voice carried a sense of awe.

Hermione's concern seemed to dissipate slightly. – "Well, I suppose that was quite something." She conceded. – "But still, you must be more careful. The last thing you need is to get in trouble before even reaching Hogwarts."

Alexander nodded. – "Did you find Neville's toad?" He asked, changing the subject. He looked back at Harry and Ron. – "The restrooms are rather full, maybe you two should change in here if you don't mind." He stated.

Ron and Harry looked at each other before shrugging, Alexander nodded and extended his hand, prompting Hermione to exit the compartment with him, he shut the door behind them and watched Harry close the curtain of the glass for privacy. – "We did find the toad, Trevor." Hermione stated once they were standing in the train's hallway, she was looking out the window, the sky was now beginning to turn purple.

Alexander nodded. – "I'm glad. I'm sure Neville's relieved."

Hermione regarded him with a mix of curiosity and respect. – "You seem very composed, even in the face of trouble. How did you learn to handle things like that?" She asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

Alexander remained silent for a second, he adverted his sight towards the purple sky through the window. – "Experience." He answered plainly. – "It's not the kind of experience I wish anyone to have."

Hermione's eyes still lingered on him, she noticed how his eyes looked more blue than gray right now, and how they were almost always cold, she recalls seeing them a bit warmer on their previous encounter, she guesses that the confrontation had left him rather angry as well.

Alexander turned to her, his blue eyes met her brown eyes, he could see the curiosity behind them, and some concern as well, unintentionally he had a glimpse of her mind, he frowned slightly and again regained his control, he didn't want to invade her privacy, but for what he could see, he saw some sympathy and concern. – "Not all people are good." He elaborated. – "And life isn't always fair." He ran a hand through his sandy blonde curls, getting them off his eyes, and adverted his sight to the sky again.

Hermione sensed he didn't really want to delve in the subject. – "Do you have a favorite course?" She asked, trying to change the subject and lighten the mood.

Alexander turned towards her and smiled lightly. – "Not really, I've had my books for only a week and haven't finished them all, transfigurations seem really challenging and interesting."

Hermione nodded, seeming pleased to discuss magical studies. – "Transfiguration is fascinating indeed. It's one of the most complex branches of magic, but it's also one of the most rewarding. Have you read about Animagi transformation? It's a particularly advanced form of transfiguration." She questioned.

Alexander nodded, he did read it, in the History of Magic book. – "Yeah, that's very strictly regulated by the Ministry." He turned towards the sky. – "It must take a lot of patience. But it's very intriguing."

Hermione smiled warmly, finding a kindred spirit in Alexander's appreciation for magical intricacies. – "Exactly! And to think that there are witches and wizards who have successfully become Animagi throughout history, it's a testament to the depth of magical potential. If mastered responsibly, it can open up a whole new world of possibilities."

Alexander smiled, it seems like Hermione was very levelheaded and very fond of following the rules, in his opinion there were moments were following the rules was not a priority. If he were to try to become an animagi, he doubts he would be running to the Ministry to register himself, not out of pure rebelliousness, but it's not like he believes people should be completely aware of everything about himself. – "Yeah, you're right." He turned towards her again. – "I take it transfigurations is your favorite then?"

Hermione nodded her head eagerly and her eyes sparkled with her enthusiasm. Alexander couldn't help but think that she looked pretty when she smiled so excitedly. – "Yes, absolutely. I find the intricacies of changing one object into another absolutely fascinating. It's like unlocking the secrets of the very essence of magic itself." She stated excitedly. – "Although charms seem fascinating as well."

Alexander nodded his head. – "I know, I can tell you are well versed in those already, it was really impressive how you fixed Harry's glasses." He turned towards the sky again. – "Did your parents help you with your magic? If I may ask? It's just, well one isn't supposed to be doing magic outside of Hogwarts." He found a small loophole in her rule following demeanor.

Hermione kept smiling. – "My parents are dentists, actually." She started. – "They are muggles, so I didn't receive help with magic. But I've always been curious, you see, so I read all the books as soon as I had my hands on them and memorized all spells by heart." She looked to the sky as well. – "I wanted to be as prepared as possible before coming to Hogwarts."

Alexander turned towards her at the mention of being muggle-born, just like himself. – "Oh, I guess all of us muggle-born think alike." She turned towards him and smiled warmly; Alexander couldn't help but return the smile.

- "Yes, I suppose so." She stated.

And then came the question he was already expecting, it was only natural he had brought the subject of parents to the conversation himself. – "What do your parents do?" She asked warmly.

Alexander maintained his smile. – "Well, I don't know. Never met them." He stated, trying not to make his voice extremely plain and stoic as always, so she could see he wasn't bothered by her question. – "I just know they were muggles."

Hermione's expression fell immediately her smile disappeared, her eyes conveying understanding and sympathy. She realized that her inquiry might have been intrusive, and she didn't want to make Alexander uncomfortable. Sensing the sensitivity of the topic, she spoke gently. – "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry. It must be difficult not knowing them."

Alexander smiled and shook his head. – "You didn't. I asked about your parents first, don't worry about it." He found it was easy to speak with Hermione. Speaking with Ron and Harry was easy, but this felt different. – "I don't really know any family. But it's okay, I can't really miss something I never had." The problem was, he did miss someone, his smile fell slightly before he regained composure. He noticed she still was uneasy. – "It's fine, Hermione."

The door of the compartment was opened just then, Ron stood there, now dressed in his robes. – "We're done." He announced.

Alexander released a breath. – "You can join us, if you want?" He offered to Hermione.

She shook her head lightly. – "I will go back to my compartment; all my stuff is there." She smiled at him and nodded before turning around and leaving. Just like before, Alexander's eyes stayed on her until she disappeared from view.

Ron, now inside the compartment, looked at Alexander. - "You okay?" He asked, concern evident in his voice. Harry was by his side, waiting for Alexander's response as well.

Alexander nodded. – "I'm fine." He confirmed, his voice steady. – "We should be arriving soon. It might be a good idea to make sure we have everything ready." He gestured towards their bags and the various items scattered in the compartment.

The three boys started picking up all the trash and envelopes from candy Harry and Ron had eaten, Harry placed the trash in his bag, soon after a whistle chimed through the train. – "We'll be arriving at Hogsmeade in five minutes, do not concern yourselves for your trunks, it will be at the school when you arrive." A voice spoke through the train.

Harry's stomach twisted with nerves, Alexander noticed it, he smiled warmly when Harry's sight met his. Harry and Ron picked up whatever sweets were left and pocketed them, Ron picked up a Pumpkin pasty and handed it to Alexander, who nodded and smiled as a thanks.

Soon enough they had picked up their belongings and reunited with the rest of the group in the hallway. The train slowed down until it finally came to a stop, the boys were at the endo of the hallway, they watched how people started pushing, eager to exit the train. Alexander remained still until most of the commotion was over, Ron and and Harry flowed suit and waited as well. When they finally got off the train Harry shivered lightly at the cold night.

Hogsmeade Village, Scotland.

The platform was bustling with students, the older ones were already leaving towards the horseless carriages. The appeared a light over the heads of the students that were left, Harry heard a known voice. – "First years! First years with me!"

Harry smiled at the low voice of Hagrid, who had helped him buy all of his stuff and had introduced him to the magical world. – "Come on." He gestured with his head towards the voice, Alexander and Ron followed him.

The boys made their way through the crowd of students, Hagrid was quick to spot Harry. – "There you are Harry!" He spoke in his distinctive accent.

- "Hi, Hagrid." Harry stated.

- "Whoa." Ron stated in awe, looking up to the friendly half giant. Alexander was too in awe, he knew he was small, but standing in front of Hagrid, he felt minuscule.

Hagrid's eyes fell on Ron and Alexander. – "I see you have made some friends." He stated happily, with a warm smile.

Harry nodded his head eagerly; he did consider Ron and Alexander his friends. – "Yeah. This is Ron." He gestured towards the red headed boy. – "And this is Alexander." He gestured towards the curly haired boy.

Hagrid smiled at the boys. – "Alexander Whitmore?" The boy in question nodded his head. – "Professor McGonagall mentioned you, said you were very smart."

Alexander tilted his head; he was surprised Professor McGonagall had mentioned him. – "I hope I can live up to that." He stated.

Hagrid patted Alexander on the shoulder, his hand almost covering the entirety of it, it almost knocked him out of balance. – "I'm sure you will, lad." He turned to the group. – "Now, let's get you to the boats. It's a short ride to Hogwarts. Is there anyone else?! First years with me!"

The entire group of first years followed Hagrid through a narrow path, Alexander had steadied a boy that almost fell on the way, the boy nodded in thanks before they continued their path. – "You'll have your first view of Hogwarts." Hagrid stated, talking over his shoulder. – "Just around the corner now." He finished turning.

As they rounded the corner, the magnificent sight of Hogwarts castle came into view. Its towering turrets and its many windows illuminated by warm light were a stunning sight against the darkening sky. The lake shimmered softly nearby, and the surrounding forest appeared mystical and inviting.

Ron gasped, clearly taken aback by the beauty of the castle. Alexander, though impressed, maintained his composed demeanor, but the glint in his eyes suggested a deep appreciation for the magical architecture. Harry, too, was unable to contain his excitement, his eyes fixed on the castle as they approached.

Hagrid led the group of first years to the edge of the lake, where a fleet of small boats awaited them – "No more than four per boat." He stated seriously. The boats appeared to be move on their own accord, as if drawn by some unseen force. The first years boarded the boats eagerly, the boys boarded the same boat together with the boy Alexander had saved from falling; the water gently lapping at the sides as they glided across the lake. Alexander took in the sight of the castle from the water, marveling at its grandeur and the sense of magic that seemed to emanate from its very walls.

- "Heads down!" Hagrid exclaimed from the front as they neared a cave.

The boats glided smoothly into a small, dark tunnel that seemed to be leading directly into the base of the castle. The darkness enveloped them for a brief moment before the passage opened up into a vast underground harbor, lined with rough stone walls and softly lit torches. The other boats carrying first-year students followed suit, and soon they were all disembarking onto a small stone dock.

They walked for some distance from there, going up stairs and rocks until they finally exited the cave to a clearing surrounded by the castle. They went up a stairwell until they finally entered the massive structure.