1966

A train whistle blasted loudly, startling an eleven-year-old Narcissa out of her thoughtful reflection. A passing trolly carrying tatty luggage bags and a caged rat made her flinch in disgust. Narcissa squeezed her father's hand a bit tighter, and he gently drew her nearer to his side.

"Merlin—" Druella glanced critically around the station, chin raised and nose crinkled. Her tightly pulled up-do made her expression all the more severe. "Each year this place is more hapless than the last."

"Smells worse too," added Bellatrix, and she threw her judgemental gaze all around the station. "All the Mudbloods."

Cygnus blew some air from his nose, and curled the corner of his lip at the crude remark. Druella gave him a deadly glare, quickly dampening his little smirk.

"Watch your mouth, Bella," Cygnus quickly corrected his eldest.

"What?" Bellatrix asked, shrugging her shoulders. "We were all thinking it."

Neither Andromeda nor Narcissa spoke up in their sister's defence. Instead, they both cast their eyes downwards and remained silent.

"Be that as it may," Cygnus conceded to her assessment, "You needn't be so vulgar. No wizard worth his wand will have you for a wife with that mouth of your's. Madam Malkin tells me you swear like a sailor."

"Tell her to stop sticking me with her pins and maybe I'll be nicer," Bellatrix retorted, "The bloody woman doesn't pay attention. She actually threaded her needle through my skin once. Would've stitched the sleeve to my arm if I hadn't swatted her away."

"That woman has been sewing your gowns since the day you were born," said Cygnus, more angered than before, "And has done a damn good job at that. I've poured a lot of Galleons into making sure you girls are kept well-dressed. So what if she's nicked you a few times? You sound so disgustingly ungrateful."

The family came to a clearing amongst the crowd. Just above them, a large clock hung above their heads displaying the time — 10:45.

Narcissa watched as other students parted from their families and excitedly rushed aboard the train. This made her frown. Many times she had been to this station, albeit to see her sisters off. An unwelcome tradition in Narcissa's opinion. Having to make do without the company of her sisters was simply dreadful. She longed to join them at school. But now, as Narcissa awaited to board the Hogwarts Express, all feelings of excitement and anticipation had quickly extinguished into fear and reluctance.

Spying this apprehension, Cygnus kneeled down to face his youngest daughter with a look of utmost compassion.

"Give it a couple weeks, just a couple. If you've that nasty homesick feeling by that point, I'll come fetch you at once and we'll see to a private tutor. I'll never make you stay somewhere you don't want to be. But I want you to give Hogwarts an honest try. Can you do that for me?"

It was silly, Narcissa knew. She should have been elated at the opportunity. Receiving her Hogwarts invitation was certainly an exhilarating experience. But truthfully, the very idea of spending so many months away from her home, her own bed, away from her parents; it hadn't sat well with her in the slightest. Narcissa further contemplated her father's request. She knew she need only ask to stay behind. A simple 'I don't want to go' and a few earnest tears would suffice. After all, she had summoned tears at-will before when it benefited her.

Going home was tempting, but Narcissa conceded to her father's request with a timid nod.

"There's a good girl." Cygnus pressed a kiss to her forehead. He stood again, towering over the three girls. He lifted a silver flask from his waistcoat and asked them: "Tickets?"

Each sister retrieved a golden voucher from a small handbag they each carried and presented it to their father.

"Good." Cygnus nodded, and took a generous guzzle of booze.

Another family stood nearby: a father, mother, and three boys of different ages and all seeming to be treading on their parents' last nerves. The exasperated witch attempted to reign in the raucous boys to no avail. A task that could have been made easier, if only her utterly disinterested-looking husband had made even the slightest attempt to help.

Andromeda shied away the most at this sight, stepping behind her sisters in hopes to remain unseen. Narcissa wasn't too particularly fond of the Parkinson's either. She recalled meeting their young sons once during a social event. The three boys were nothing short of obnoxious.

As Cygnus brought the flask down from his lips, the other wizard suddenly stared at him with a certain condemnation.

"You've a staring problem there, Mate?" Cygnus arched a brow and wiped the liquor from his mouth. "Or have you something you'd like to say?"

The man's demeanour changed entirely then, eyes widened and face flushed. Black's comment proved to be all the motivation the wizard needed to quickly gather his wife and children and flee down the platform.

"Bloody coward," Cygnus mumbled lowly.

Narcissa watched the Parkinsons scurry away, lightly amused. It seemed that everyone was big and tough, until it came to standing against her father. He never failed to send potential threats running off with their tails between their legs. Only her mother and Bellatrix ever dared to cross him.

"Cygnus!" Druella tapped the side of his arm with the back of her hand. "Honestly. Must you pick a fight with everyone that takes a sideways glance at you?"

"Oh, come on." Cygnus chuckled a bit at his wife's glare this time. Ignoring her frustration, he playfully tapped his finger to the tip of her nose. "You know you love it."

"I'm this close," Druella held her thumb and forefinger at a minuscule distance from each other, "To convincing Preston Parkinson to arrange a courtship between his son and Andromeda. We cannot risk rejection, and especially not due to your ridiculous need to intimidate everyone."

"Settle down," Cygnus looked unperturbed, "We needn't strive to find Ana a suitor just yet." He attempted to discreetly point at Bellatrix. "It's this one we've got to worry about."

"Hey!" Bellatrix caught his little gesture. "I'm right here!"

"Hush now," said Druella, "You've no one to blame but yourself. Your father and I are sick to death of receiving letters from the school detailing your poor behaviour. No wonder the boys steer clear of you. I will not have you graduate from Hogwarts without securing at least a prospective husband. People will begin to think you're unmarragable; defective even. And then what will I be expected to do with you?"

"At least I'm actually going to graduate!" Bellatrix spat, and those who stood within earshot began to stare. "Couldn't even finish your third year without getting knocked up! Though, I suppose you didn't act alone in that."

Bellatrix shifted her eyes judgementally toward her father. Druella froze, mouth agape and complexion drained of all colour.

"Hey!" Cygnus shouted, face furiously red. "Don't you ever speak to your mother that way!"

Bellatrix just sniffed, and whirled around toward the express. Cygnus clenched his jaw as he watched her storm onto the train without a word more. He grumbled something unintelligible in her direction, and took another drink from his flask.

Druella looked away, but Narcissa caught glimpse of the falling teardrop her mother hastily dabbed away with her ring finger. When Druella faced her girls again, she greeted them with a pair of watery eyes and a feigned smile.

"Right then. Best get going," said Druella softly, and she sniffled a little bit. "Those compartments do fill up quickly."

A brief sentimental farewell was exchanged between them. Narcissa quickly found herself being led by Andromeda onto the express. The corridor aboard the train was uncomfortably narrow. It smelled of musty clothing and cheap fragrance — even worse than it had been around the station.

"Should we find Bella?" Asked Narcissa. Come to think of it, perhaps best to let her cool down? Bellatrix had always been known to have a legendary temper, and being on the receiving end was not something anyone would dare risk.

"With her fuming the way she is right now? No thank you," said Andromeda, "She's a menace when she's upset; you know that. So dramatic. She's found her friends be now, I'm sure. By the time we get to the castle, she'll have simmered down—"

Andromeda yelped and fell to the ground.

"Oh! Sorry!" A boy exclaimed remorsefully, and he was first at Andromeda's side. He lent her his hand, and she accepted with no qualms. "Are you alright?"

Andromeda wanted to smile. Narcissa could see her lips threatening to twitch upwards. Instinctively, Narcissa eyed the boy up and down. His clothing was anything but spectacular, and his sandy-coloured hair was rumpled as if he had just awoken from bed.

"I'm alright," Andromeda said politely, "Thank you."

"Sorry about that." He apologised to her again, before whipping his head around to another boy snickering behind him. "Blimey, Perkins! See what happens when you shove?! Knock it off!"

His friend responded with continuous laughter — until a hateful voice drifted out from somewhere nearby.

"Get your manky Mudblood hand off her!"

Bellatrix practically plowed her way through students. She ripped the boy's hand from Andromeda's with such downward force that it was honestly shocking that both their arms hadn't dislocated from their sockets.

"Are you alright, Ana?! Did he hurt you?!"

"I — er — no," was all Andromeda could get out. She rubbed her hand softly, likely in pain from her sister's forceful motions.

Bellatrix disregarded this answer, and stared the clumsy boy down with deadly dark eyes. "It was just an accident," the boy said earnestly, putting his hands up to show surrender.

"Oh, just an accident was it?!" Bellatrix continued to admonish him. "She's going to have to scour her hand to oblivion now, you bloody stupid idiot!"

"Come off it, Black!" Perkins shouted from behind his friend. "Ted didn't mean it."

Bellatrix glowered at both boys with a sense of loathing that could've set them on fire. She gathered both her sisters, and hurried them down the hall. It wasn't long before they arrived at an empty cabin. Bellatrix had likely sought it out after she strode away angrily. The girls all entered swiftly and the door slid closed behind them with a click.

"Stupid Tonks," muttered Bellatrix, plopping down into her seat. "Such a nuisance. And a Hufflepuff, no less."

A loud bang against the cabin door made all three girls jump in their seats. An orange splatter coated the glass, and the liquid trickled down in streams.

"RACIST BITCHES!" Someone yelled from behind the glass.

Bellatrix got up at once and peered out of the door. The unknown culprit had already taken off down the corridor, leaving behind their spiteful mess. Bellatrix withdrew her wand, and vanished the substance from the window.

"What was that?" Asked Narcissa worriedly.

"Someone's pumpkin juice," answered Bellatrix upon spying the broken container on the ground nearby. "How lovely."

Bellatrix kicked the bottle away, and slid the door closed. When she next sat down across for her sisters, she did so with a certain reserve.

"Don't pay them any mind, Cissy. Ana and I don't anyway. It's just words. Doesn't mean anything."

"Could it have been those boys from earlier?"Andromeda checked.

"Those Hufflepuffs? Doubt it." Bellatrix shook her head. "Probably a Gryffindor. Stupidly brazen for no reason. But how brave are they really? Doing something like that then running scared. Cowards."

Suddenly, the door slid back open. A flash of pink entered the cabin, and a familiar girl took the seat next to Narcissa.

"Um, hello?" Bellatrix addressed the unwelcome intruder. The disdain in her tone was heavy. "Can we help you?"

Gone were any hopes of a peaceful train ride up to the castle. Narcissa scowled inwardly at the presence of her least favourite cousin, Priscilla Rosier. Something of an accomplishment, considering what little imps her younger cousins, Sirius and Regulus, were.

This was not to say the Rosier girl didn't have her good qualities. Priscilla had lovely dark skin and long raven hair to be envied. How unfortunate that she was so unbelievably intolerable to be around.

"I can sit in here with you three, right?" Priscilla more so stated rather than asked. She began pulling an array of magazines from her purse. Her phosphorescent pink dress was almost painful to look at. Unfortunately, all of her dresses were this colour.

"Why don't you pester Evan?" Bellatrix made no attempt whatsoever to hide her annoyance. "I'm sure he'd just love to accompany you on your first ride up to the castle. You two might even bond, if you can keep away from each other's throats that is."

"Where do you think I just came from?" Asked Priscilla impatiently. "I was going to do that, Evan agreed as well, but on the condition that his friends could join in our cabin. I was fine with it at first, until that McNair came and stunk up the whole place."

"I suppose that's fair," said Bellatrix with a sigh. "The boy could put Mimbulus Mimbletonia to shame. All of the hygiene potions and charms available, and yet he still smells more putrid than the pungent passage. I heard he and his family live in absolute squalor. I don't doubt it."

"And his breath," added Andromeda, and she shuttered at the thought, "Just rancid. How Evan could possibly be nose-blind to it is beyond me."

"Is he the one with the crooked teeth?" Narcissa asked, recounting the many horror stories brought home by her sisters regarding the unfortunate boy.

"Oh yes," said Bellatrix with a sneer, "Follows Ana and I around constantly with that twisted smile of his. Thinks he's a something of a charmer."

"Father said he packed my new magazines!" Priscilla's distressed voice cried out. "These are all past issues!"

"Here—" Bellatrix retrieved a current issue of Hecate from her bag in record time. "Take this and shut up. I don't want to hear your voice for at least an hour."

Priscilla initially looked elated to snatch the magazine from her cousin. Then, she gave Bellatrix her most petulant expression.

"I'll speak if I want to," said Priscilla, slumping back into her seat comfortably with the open catalogue.

"Not even so much as a thank you?" Bellatrix asked, voice laced with sarcasm. "Not very ladylike of you, Prissy. Come to think of it, I never did receive proper adulation for taking the fall when you broke that vase in your father's study."

Priscilla slapped the magazine down into her lap and met her cousin's stare.

"Oh, wait. Did I say vase?" Bellatrix continued smugly. "I meant urn. You know the one. The urn that held your great-great-grandfather's ashes inside. They still despise me for that you know."

"So?" Priscilla was indignant. "He'd never believe you now anyway."

"So, maybe I'll just let Uncle Ambrose extract my memory and take it to the ministry. Did you know they have a pensive there?"

Priscilla just pressed her lips together and began to angrily flip through the pages in complete silence, and Bellatrix beamed in victory.

Before long, another whistle blew, and the train began to roll forward from the station. Andromeda and Narcissa were first at the window, waving and blowing kisses to their parents. There was a sudden sharp nudge, and both girls were shoved aside by Priscilla as she bid farewell to her own parents.

"Haven't seen Aunt Hestia look that happy in ages," said Bellatrix, craning her neck to look out of the window. "Likely elated to be rid of you for the next few months; I know I would be."

Priscilla turned to Bellatrix with a hateful scowl, and dropped back down into her seat.

"You know, you could have at least waved goodbye to Mother and Father, Bella," said Andromeda, looking a bit disappointed. "Why leave on a sour note?"

"I'm sick of them both." Bellatrix leaned her head against the wall. "Mother only lives to poke and prod at us, and Father scolds me for actually having a personality outside of wanting to look pretty all of the time. Meanwhile, both of them are dedicated to marrying me off as soon as possible, just to get me out of the house for good. Never mind what I want out of life."

Narcissa could hear her parents' voices so clearly in her mind. A pureblood which must be only three things: Pretty, polished, and present. She must dress well and speak clearly. She must know the proper way to take her tea and how to avoid overeating. Her hair must be immaculate and her complexion perfectly porcelain. But most importantly, she must marry well and contribute to carrying on her husband's pure magical bloodline. To dilute her blood would be a sin above all others. And while Narcissa didn't know exactly what happened to those who committed this great sin, the scorched faces on the Black family tapestry were enough to put the fear into her.

To be as pretty as possible — something all three sisters had always agreed on. Though, it became more evident in recent years that these expectations had begun to wear Bellatrix quite thin — to the point of resentment.

"I've seen you try everything but just talking to them calmly about how you've been feeling," said Andromeda. "You don't have to be so hostile with them just to get your point across."

"Please," Bellatrix rolled her eyes, "Mother can barely comprehend anything outside of women's fashion, and all Father cares about is making sure he has a consistent buzz, the bloody stupid drunk. I'd have better luck finding compassion and understanding by talking to a brick wall. I don't think they really listen unless their being yelled at."

"I just think they'd be less keen on getting you out of the house if you were nicer to them." Andromeda gave a defeated look as she lifted a book from her purse. Apparently, a most intriguing novel, according to her. Andromeda sat back with her book and flipped a marked page.

"Is that so?" Asked Bellatrix. "And I suppose your excellent subservience is why Mother is bending over backwards to see a courtship arranged between you and Parkinson?"

Andromeda lifted her face from her book briefly, loured at Bellatrix, and went back to reading. "Thought so," said Bellatrix, looking quite pleased with herself.

The compartment was dreadfully quiet after that. Bellatrix had eventually nodded off, arms still crossed firmly in front of her chest and head resting on Andromeda's shoulder while she settled in with a book. Narcissa did appreciate the scenic views from the window. The beautiful countryside boasted rolling green pastures and sprawling streams that ran like blue veins stretching far into the horizon. Priscilla hadn't spoken a peep for hours, completely lost between the pages of the latest fashions. It wasn't until it was time to dress for their impending arrival that the Rosier girl had something she simply must express.

"I wanted to go to Beauxbaton," Priscilla complained at the long black robes she and the others changed into, "Their uniforms are so much prettier."

What a lovely idea. Narcissa would give a lot to have her cousin sent far away to the Pyrenees mountains rather than having to share a dormitory with her all year long.

The sky was dark over Hogsmeade station by the time the train had come to a stop. Exiting on to the platform, a group of students, looking noticeably novice and in need of direction, had formed near a stone archway.

"You'll go with the other first-years, Cissy," said Andromeda, pointing toward the group of students. "Mind the groundskeeper, though. He's none too pleasant to look at, but if you hold your nose and keep your distance, he's almost tolerable."

Narcissa chuckled, and immediately wondered how this supposed groundskeeper's odour compared to McNair's legendary stench.

Bellatrix and Andromeda disappeared into the crowd heading toward the castle. Narcissa joined into the group of first-years. She had lost Priscilla somewhere along the way, and felt no strong desire to seek her out.

"Firs'-years, this way!" A tall man came into view and waved the remaining stragglers over. His voice almost sounded muffled through his thick facial hair that more resembled wild unkempt shrubbery. He introduced himself as Rubius Hagrid, an unfortunate name if Narcissa had ever heard one.

"He's a halfbreed," Priscilla appeared at Narcissa's side, and whispered to her. "Half-giant. Don't get too close. They carry different diseases than we do. Evander told me so."

Narcissa had no reason to doubt these words. The man certain looked and smelled disease–ridden. The two girls decided to keep a generous distance between them and the front of the group. The Muggleborns could be useful as human shields.

Down by the lake, the students were gathered near a set of small wooden boats, each with glowing lanterns at their front-ends, tethered by ropes along the shore. Groups of three-to-a-boat were established and sent off into the water, headed straight for the castle.

The boats seemed to move by magic across the water. The view that awaited them on the other side of the lake caused many to gaze upward in awe. Hogwarts sat atop a rocky cliff. The hundreds of lit windows that lined the exterior of the castle shimmered like the stars in the night sky. It was every bit as majestic and magical as Narcissa had imagined.

Click!

A sudden bright flash came from a nearby boat.

"My parents asked if I would send them pictures of the castle once I arrived," said a boy that shared the same boat as Priscilla. She looked at him and his camera confusedly.

"Shouldn't they know what Hogwarts looks like already? They went here themselves, didn't they?"

"Oh, no." The boy shook his head. "My parents are both Muggles."

The indignant look on Priscilla's face made Narcissa nearly burst out in laughter. Instead, she bit back her amusement and resorted to watching her cousin contemplate seriously whether jumping straight into the water was a viable option.

"You best be willing to make an aquatic acquaintance if you plan on jumping," said Narcissa jokingly.

Priscilla hesitated for a moment, hands still gripping the side of the boat.

"Aye. But ya' don't have to worry about nothin', when it comes to him," said Hagrid cheerfully, "That old squid's nothin' but a big softie. Most he'll do is put ya' right back in the boat safe and sound."

"The giant squid is real?" Priscilla looked utterly horrified.

"O' Course," replied Hagrid, "How else ya' think we're movin' right now? Magic?"

And with that, Narcissa smirked as she watched her cousin retreat from the edge of the boat and settle ever so gently right back down in her seat.

They had come to the boathouse soon enough. Upwards a lengthy staircase and through a large courtyard brought the first-years into the Entrance Hall where a massive set of stone doors and a smartly-dressed witch awaited them. She wore sumptuous green robes, and her dark hair was pulled back neatly.

"Welcome to Hogwarts. I am Professor McGonogall — deputy headmistress, head of Gryffindor house, as well as your soon-to-be Transfiguration teacher. The Welcoming Feast will begin momentarily. But before you can take your seats, you must be sorted into your houses. These four house are known as Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Now while you are here, your house will be like your family."

Narcissa smiled at the idea of joining her sisters in Slytherin house. Every member of the Black family had been sorted into Slytherin. To be placed anywhere else — well — Narcissa didn't want to think about it.

"The Sorting Ceremony will take place in just a few minutes, in front of the rest of the school in the Great Hall. I shall return when we are ready for you. Please wait quietly."

McGonogall left the room. Narcissa exhaled nervously.

"What did your sisters say about the Sorting Ceremony?" Asked Priscilla. "Evan told me it hurts like the Cruciatus curse, but I don't believe him."

"Oh, it does," Narcissa was quick to reply. What a good opportunity to see her cousin squirm. "Bella told me they poke long needles through your ears and into your brain so they can read your personality, and then they just vanish the blood afterwards."

"Oh—" Priscilla swallowed, and stared at the ground nervously.

When McGonogall returned, she gazed down at them with a stern expression. "We are ready for you now. This way."

Walking into the magnificent dining chamber, the first-years were led down the middle isle of four long stone tables. Thousands of candles charmed to float high above them twinkled like stars against the dark ceiling enchanted to mimic the night sky.

At the front, an extravagantly-dressed wizard stood at a podium. His auburn hair was showing streaks of white, the same as his long beard, hinting at his age.

"Now—," McGonogall came to a halt at a wooden stool where a well-worn hat rested on top. "-The Sorting Hat will determine your house. It will be placed on your head, where it will make a decision based on the content of your character. But before we can begin, the Hat would like to say a few words."

And with that, the Sorting Hat began to sing a song. The entirety of the Great Hall was serenaded with a tune about Hogwarts history and its esteemed founders. The entire spectacle was horribly awkward. How unfortunate that Bellatrix and Andromeda had been truthful about the Sorting Hat's awful song. Apparently this took place every year — at every Sorting Ceremony. Narcissa would just have to grin and bear it.

When the song finally ended, McGonogall lifted the hat from the stool and spoke, "When I call your name, please step forward." A long scroll appeared in McGonogall's hand, and she read from the parchment.

"William Abbott"

A freckled boy emerged from the group and took a seat at the wooden stool. McGonagall placed the Hat on his head.

"Hmm," The Sorting Hat began "The kindness is palpable with this one. You strive to be liked by others. A very benevolent spirt. Quite so. No doubt you belong in — Hufflepuff!"

The boy hopped down, grinning as he joined the table of Hufflepuff students. The badger — what an uninspiring animal. At least the other three founders chose regal and dignified creatures to represent their respective houses.

"Angus Avery"

The next to emerge from the group was a stout and paunchy lad. He climbed up onto the seat, and he too had the Sorting Hat placed onto his head.

"Oh — quite the temperament on this one. You've a short fuse. I sense your determination to seek out a more constructive outlet to take out your frustrations. Fear not, with some ambition, and just a bit of cunning, both of which I sense a great deal within you, the goals you hold are certain to manifest. I think you'll feel right at home in — Slytherin!"

Those at the Slytherin table clapped modestly as the heavy boy toddled over to join them.

"Narcissa Black"

She gulped. For some reason, the room seemed extra silent as she walked over. She took a seat, and the Hat began the moment it was placed onto her head.

"Ah — another Black. You have other's awaiting you in house Slytherin, I know. Sisters, two of them, if I'm not mistaken. One of them was quite easy to sort. The other I still feel may have done well in a different house, but I digress. You value tradition, posses a cunning mind, and have a penchant for being unabashedly vainglorious—"

Narcissa held her breath. "You belong in — Slytherin!"

What a relief. The whole of the Slytherin table applauded her, and she hopped down to happily join them. Bellatrix and Andromeda have waved her over to them, sliding down to allow her a seat. The three sisters beamed brightly at one another, thankful all had gone as they hopped.

Clearing her throat, McGonogall continued on, reading down the list alphabetically. With each new name called, a new student walked up to be sorted.

Valerian Blossom ~ Slytherin

Cassius Carrow ~ Slytherin

Lorraine Davenport ~ Ravenclaw

Gregory Fawley ~ Ravenclaw

Agatha Faust ~ Slytherin

Iolanthe Garnet ~ Slytherin

Christine Grey ~ Gryffindor

Michael Holloway ~ Hufflepuff

Darren Jenkins ~ Hufflepuff

Oliver Kelly ~ Gryffindor

Frederick Nygaard ~ Gryffindor

Ericka Matthews ~ Ravenclaw

Olesya Ogden ~ Hufflepuff

"Priscilla Rosier"

The three Black sisters watched the Sorting Hat be placed on their cousin's head fearfully. "Put her anywhere else, please." Andromeda crossed her fingers.

"Make her a Ravenclaw," whispered Bellatrix, "Those lot are dreadful."

Narcissa watched this regretfully. Perhaps she should have spent the train ride up to the castle convincing her cousin of her bravery, intelligence, or (Merlin help her) her kindness. Maybe then Priscilla would've been another house's problem.

"Slytherin!" The Hat shouted.

Bellatrix groaned dramatically, and Andromeda put her face in her hands.

When Priscilla came over to them, the three girls made no effort to make room for her. Priscilla grimaced, and stomped off to find somewhere else to sit.

The Sorting continued.

Saoirse Selwyn ~ Slytherin

Kingsley Shacklebolt ~ Gryffindor

Daniel Spinks ~ Slytherin

Jacques Toulouse ~ Ravenclaw

Vivica Vane ~ Slytherin

Katherine Waldorf ~ Gryffindor

Gunthar Wolford ~ Gryffindor

Corban Yaxley ~ Slytherin

Zephyr Zabini ~ Slytherin

"Now that you've all been sorted, I do believe Professor Dumbledore would like to say a few words."

McGonagall stepped aside, allowing Dumbledore to take center stage at the podium.

"To all of our first-years, welcome. To all of those returning, welcome back. 'Tis truly a great honour to have each and everyone of you at our school. Here, not only will learn to hone your magical ability through the guidance of some of the finest professors in the world, but I am most certain there will be countless other memorable moments made even outside the classroom. At Hogwarts, not only will you foster a superb magical education, but also lasting friendships, and lifelong memories that will warm your heart for decades to come. At least, that's what we here at this school strive to provide you. May this Welcoming Feast commemorate the beginning of a bright and magical future for you all."

And with that, an extravagant banquet materialised before them. All manner of meats, vegetables, breads and desserts were present. It was certainly a bit overwhelming to see such an abundant display of food.

"Savages," said Bellatrix, watching some Slytherin boys tear into turkey legs and stuff their mouths with bread. "Have some decorum for Merlin's sake."

"Oh, so now you care about appearances," Andromeda mocked her.

"I've always cared about appearances, thank you very much," said Bellatrix annoyed at the notion. "I'm just not an absolute lunatic about it like Mother's always been. I swear, she ought to be medicated."

After the feast, a pair of prefects took to escorting the students in the respective houses to their common rooms. Evander Rosier was one of these Slytherin prefects. Narcissa recalled him to be in his seventh and final year. How unfortunate he wouldn't be around to keep his little sister in line for longer.

The prefect to Evander's left was a girl — short and stumpy, with a smooshed face. She wore a large pink bow in her short curly brown hair, and her thin lips were coated in a pink lipstick that looked oddly sticky. She looked wholly unpleasant.

"Umbridge," whispered Andromeda, and she shivered a bit. "Awful girl."

"And in her final year, thank Merlin." Bellatrix sent her dark stare Umbridge's way. "That cow. She'll tattle on anyone just to have her ego stroked by the professors. I think she gets off on it. Miserable shrew."

The group was led deep into the dungeons when they were halted in front of a brick wall. Evander faced the wall and uttered the password.

"Puresanguis."

At his command, the entrance to the Slytherin common room revealed itself. A stone serpent appeared from the dungeon floor, and made an archway that opened up into a magnificent chamber.

Down a lengthy spiral staircase took them into the heart of the Slytherin common room. It was mesmerising. Carved stone pillars stretched up from the marble floors all the way to the cave-like ceiling. Large windows lined the back wall of the room, giving an excellent view of the Lake's depths and illuminated the space with a blueish-green glow. Everywhere, etchings of snakes and dragon skulls hung about. The common room was reminiscent of a prestigious museum.

Both prefects stood before the rest of them, backlit in orange by the flames dancing in the grand fireplace behind them.

"Each dormitory hall has two entrances," said Umbridge. "Boy's on the left, girl's to the right. First-years will find their dormitories nearer the furthest entrance. Look for the gilded number '1' next to the door."

The rules regarding curfew were laid out quite plainly, and concluded with the firm suggestion that everyone get to bed early for their first classes in the morning. When everyone dispersed, Narcissa was greeted by both of her sisters at her side.

"So, what do you think?" Bellatrix asked, gesturing around at the room's grand architecture. "Nice, isn't it? So much better than home."

"So much better for you, perhaps," mentioned Andromeda, "All you love about this place is that it's far away from Mother and Father. I like Hogwarts, but I'd much rather sleep in my own bed. Not that the beds here are anything to necessarily complain about, I suppose."

"Ah, another Black sister," a boy emerged from behind them. He looked Narcissa up and down, grinning at her with a ghastly set of crooked teeth. "Mmm — so pretty. Let's see if this one can keep her legs closed long enough to see her fourth-year. How is your mum, by the way?"

The boy laughed cruelly, and Narcissa suddenly realised just who this boy was when his horrid breath wafted in front of her nose.

"Piss off, McNair!" Bellatrix shouted at him, "And keep that bloody disgusting mouth of your's shut! Your breath smells like you've been gnawing on a maggot-infested corpse!"

McNair balked slightly at Bellatrix, and shuffled away while muttering curses at her.

"So quick to come to Mother's defence," pointed Andromeda. Bellatrix squinted at her.

"I was defending Cissy, not Mother."

At a table near the fireplace, the three sisters enjoyed a bit of tea before bed. Andromeda claimed it helped to take the edge off the first night away from home. Narcissa appreciated it.

They settled into their respective dorms soon after. The room was quite cozy, Narcissa thought. With canopy beds lined up against a wall covered in exquisite tapestries of wizards and great serpents. The ceiling was crafted from a beautiful stained glass mosaic, and dim lanterns gave the room a cozy glow.

Narcissa chose the bed nearest to the window. The entire wall to the left of her bed was made of glass, and occasionally, she could have sworn she saw the faintest hint of a long tail swimming past. Though, Narcissa supposed the rumours of merpeople in the Lake were just that — rumours.

"That was a mean prank you pulled earlier." The irritated voice had come from the doorway. Priscilla marched over to the bunk next to Narcissa and began unpacking her things. "You had me scared to death until I saw that old ratty hat."

Narcissa tried to control her laughter, allowing only a slight smirk to form on her lips.

Once the rest of the first-year girls arrived and claimed their beds, everyone began preparing for sleep. Luggage bags were unpacked, clothes and shoes were tucked away, and books gathered and placed neatly for class the next day. From her luggage bag, Narcissa retrieved probably the most important article she had brought with her. A large fur blanket, made to serve a bed at least three times as large as the one she currently sat on. She hugged it close, and thought fondly of home.

"Hey! Where did you get that nice blanket?!" Asked Priscilla; demanded rather.

"My father bought it for me while he was on a business trip to Russia." Narcissa clutched the blanket away from her cousin's prying eyes. "He said the dungeons were always really cold, and that this would help."

"Well, share it then!" Priscilla insisted, shivering in a way that looked performative. "It's plenty big enough to lay across both our beds."

"Actually, I'm not so sure." Narcissa proceeded to wrap the entirety of the blanket around herself and hop into her bed. "Seems there's only enough for me."

"Hmph!" Priscilla angrily ripped the blankets she had over herself and rolled onto her side. Narcissa chuckled a bit. She laid back in bed, comforted by the warmth of the lavish fur.

She'd wake up some time later in urgent need of the lavatory. She regretted how much tea she had drank just before bed.

Narcissa looked around the room; all the other girls were sound asleep. Priscilla's face was still twisted into an angry grimace as she slept, and she snored rather loud. It was a wonder none of them had been woken up by it. She carefully slipped out of bed and managed to make it to the door without disturbing the others.

Leaving the dorm, Narcissa spotted the orange glow that came from the common room fireplace. The closer she came, the more clearly she could her a set of voices whispering amongst each other.

"-And how exactly do you plan to get him to follow us into the woods?" A voice asked, in an exasperated murmur.

"He's a Mudblood," another spoke. "They'll do anything if it'll put them into our good graces. I'll tempt him with a little adventure into the forbidden forest. He'll likely follow."

Narcissa crossed her legs as she listened, wanting to hear as much as her bladder would allow her to.

"Then what?" Asked a third voice — a girl. "Then, we put him in the box.

"Put him in the box alive and just leave him there?" This question carried great worry with it. "Let him wither from starvation? Seems unnecessarily cruel."

There was a pause, someone was mulling the thought over.

"I suppose you have a point. He's really no use to us until he's dead. Might as well finish him off right away. I know how to get my hands on a dagger if need be."

"And then what?" This voice sounded quite anticipating.

"And then we wait. I say we kill him, box him up, then come back after a week or so. He'll be in perfect condition then. Not too rotten, but long dead enough for the incantation to work."

"Agreed." The other two said in unison.

Unable to ignore the urge further, Narcissa eased into the room, hoping to get by undetected. She stuck to the shadows, keeping as close to the wall as possible.

"Narcissa"

She slowly turned at the voice she now recognised as familiar. Evander was sat near the fireplace with two others — another boy and girl, that looked to be of his year.

"What are you doing up at this late hour?" Evander asked. "My sister wake you? She does snore awfully loud. I'd put a silencing charm on her for you, but those blasted stairs won't allow boys up to the girls' dormitories. Quite the inconvenience, really."

"I just needed the lavatory," said Narcissa.

Evander raised a brow.

"Oh." He gestured loosely toward the exit. "It's just out of this room and down the hall to the left. Can't miss it. You remember the password to get back in, don't you?"

Narcissa nodded and smiled politely. When she made to walk away, a throat cleared quite loudly.

"Before you go—" Evander held up his hand to halt her. He lifted a tea cup from the table. "I never got a chance to formally congratulate you on your sorting."

The two student sitting with him fetched their cups as well. They all raised their cups in unison to her in a form of cheers.

"This is Crouch, and Carrow," said Evander, gesturing to the boy and girl respectively.

They all wore rather ominous expressions, and were eerily lit by the fireplace. Evander smirked sinisterly at Narcissa, and she felt a cold chill run along her spine when he spoke.

"Welcome to Slytherin."