Author Notes: Hello again, everybody! it's been a... long while, hasn't it?
I was (and still am) mostly busy with work and college affairs, so that didn't leave me much time to write. I'm not giving up on this story, don't worry about it, I just may have to make some adjustments here and there to make it all make sense as a whole. I will do my best to avoid any retroactive changes and to notify readers should they be necessary.
Without further ado, here's chapter 7.
Chapter 7: A Hat of Sorts
And so, we entered.
My eyes were quickly blinded by the golden hue that absorbed us, drawn up towards the tall vaulted ceiling of what I assumed to be the castle's entrance hall. Four main pillars supported each cross-ribbed vault, creating a central dome from which a colossal chandelier hung, somehow managing to illuminate the entirety of the hall evenly.
Staring down at the floor, there were several coloured patterns in what appeared to be a large, circular stone mosaic depicting a compass card. Colourful tapestries hung from the walls displaying a coat of arms from each Hogwarts house, or at least from the walls that weren't taken by tall gothic windows, the biggest one being that which displayed a large H enclosed in a stained glass circle. In front of said window, stood a bronze statue of a sorcerer holding a piece of parchment in one hand and a replica of the castle in another.
We kept walking until we reached a large marble staircase. After climbing a few steps, Hagrid signalled for us to stop. He then turned to us and said in a hush tone "You lot wait 'ere, I'mma get professor Flitwick for ya!"
He left us at the stairs and stepped through the golden ornate doors ahead of us, giving us a glimpse of students in a large hall. As Hagrid's form disappeared beyond the doors, a heavy silence fell over our group. Everyone seemed to be soaking in the grandeur of the place, their nerves getting the better of their chatter. It was Alvarus who broke the silence first.
"Can you believe we're actually here?" he whispered, almost to himself. The awe in his voice mirrored the wide-eyed expressions of many around us.
"Feels unreal," I murmured back, my gaze still wandering back to the intricate details of the statue behind us.
"What are you looking at?" Connor noticed me staring intently at the bronze sorcerer figure.
"That statue over there… I've seen it before." I muttered.
"In the Grimoire?" He then asked.
"No, that's the strange part. That right there is-"
"The Architect of Hogwarts." A voice said out loud, breaking the whispers.
Our eyes befell a hidden figure amongst the group that I had come to encounter before, with short curly brown hair and penetrating green eyes, he gazed into mine almost as a challenge. It was Murtlock's son, Tiberius. The group split apart as he climbed up a step to get to our level.
Tiberius stood with a sneer, his eyes scanning our group before settling back on me. "You seem quite interested in the Architect. Not many first years bother about old statues," he commented dryly.
"Maybe I just find it fascinating," I retorted, feeling a little defensive. "Who was he, really?"
"He was more than just any old wizard," Tiberius said, his voice taking on a lecturing tone. "He was the visionary who designed the magical structures of Hogwarts, imbuing powerful enchantments into these very walls-"
"Yeah yeah, I know that part, but what made him so special?" I asked impatiently.
Tiberius narrowed his eyes at my interruption, clearly annoyed. "What made him special?" he repeated, his tone icy. "The Architect of Hogwarts wasn't just any wizard; he was a master of ancient magic, much of which has been lost to time. His ability to merge structural design with powerful enchantments gave this castle a plethora of defences and hidden chambers that no one has fully mapped out to this day."
"Lost to time, huh?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite feeling the tension between us. "How come no one knows about his methods?"
Tiberius crossed his arms, giving me a superior look. "Because he took his secrets to the grave. The blueprints of Hogwarts were said to have been enchanted to self-destruct upon his death. What remains are fragments, scattered throughout the castle and beyond, hidden in places only he could access. Some believe his magic was so advanced that it could fundamentally-"
"…alter the fabric of reality." I finished his sentence in a monotone. "Yeah, I've heard that bit before."
"Have you, now?" Tiberius Inquired. "You seem a bit more knowledgeable than most, don't you?"
"You'd be surprised with how much I know." I responded dryly.
"I bet it has to do with that book of yours." He pointed out.
"You mean the one you tried to steal?" I accused. Tiberius narrowed his eyes at me.
"If you knew anything about it, you'd know it doesn't belong to you." He asserted.
"And who are you to tell me who it belongs to?" I challenged.
"I know more than you realise. You'll do good staying out of my way." He warned, getting close to my face.
"If that's what it takes for you to leave me alone, fine then." I relented, not wanting to carry this altercation any further. "But you're not getting the Grimoire."
His frown deepened, and the tension was cut by the sound of the golden doors opening once more. Our eyes were then guided to a… rather short man wearing a tuxedo and swiftly combed brown hair, as well as a full moustache on an otherwise clean face. He tapped his foot as he waited for Tiberius to step aside so he could introduce himself. His presence was small in stature but commanding in aura. His eyes twinkled with both wisdom and kindness as he addressed the group.
"Good evening, students," he began, his voice surprisingly strong for his size. "My name is Professor Flitwick, and I will be guiding you through the Sorting Ceremony tonight. Before we begin, however, it is my duty to explain to you how the school works."
He took out his hand and began drawing four figures in mid-air, representing a Lion, a Badger, an Eagle and a Serpent.
"Hogwarts consists of four houses, which will be your homes for the next seven years. Those are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin." He spoke as he pointed to each drawn figure. "Throughout the year, your actions will determine how well your house will score compared to the others. Excel in your studies and you'll earn house points. Break school rules and you'll lose them. By the end of the year, the house with the most points will be granted the House Cup!"
He then combined all four figures drawn in the air into a representation of a trophy-like icon, bearing the Hogwarts crest. It stood still for a few moments before disappearing.
"I understand you all must be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, but rest assured, the Sorting Hat is never wrong in its decision. Before we proceed, does anyone have any questions about the ceremony?" He then asked us.
Alvarus raised his hand eagerly. "Professor, is it true that the Sorting Hat can read our minds?"
Professor Flitwick chuckled softly. "In a manner of speaking, yes. The Sorting Hat looks into your heart and mind to determine where you truly belong. It takes into account your qualities, aspirations, and even your deepest desires."
I exchanged a nervous glance with Connor, who gave me a reassuring nod.
"Any other questions?" Flitwick asked, looking around the group.
Tiberius, still standing a bit apart from the rest of us, spoke up in a more reserved tone. "Professor, is there any way to influence the Sorting Hat's decision?"
Flitwick's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Ah, an interesting question, Mr. Murtlock. While the Sorting Hat takes your preferences into account, it ultimately makes the decision based on where it believes you will thrive best. You might be able to express a preference, but the final decision lies with the Hat."
Satisfied with the responses, Flitwick motioned for us to follow him through the ornate golden doors into the Great Hall. The sight was nothing short of magical — four long tables filled with students wearing black robes, cutlery displayed in front of each of them as they expected a feast. Their faces turned toward us as we walked towards the front of the hall, where an old foldy witch hat sat on top of a wooden stool. The hall was lit up by a sea of floating candles, casting a warm, flickering glow on everything, obfuscated only by the enchanted ceiling above that mirrored the evening sky. We stopped upon reaching the main podium where the professors sat at the head table. They watched us expectantly as professor Flitwick stepped forward, holding a roll of parchment.
"When I call your name, you will come forward, sit on the stool, and the Sorting Hat will be placed on your head," he instructed. "The Hat will announce your house, and you will join your housemates at their table."
He unfurled the roll of parchment and began to call names.
"Edward Lupin."
And so, a blonde boy with blue coloured hair patches I hadn't noticed before stepped forward and sat on the stool, facing all of us. With a swish of Flitwick's wand, the hat levitated and sat on top of the boy's head, nearly covering his eyes. Everyone awaited expectantly.
For a while, nothing seemed to happen.
"Hum… what are we waiting for?" I whispered to Alvarus.
"You'll see!" Alvarus eagerly said.
"AH!" a voice erupted, echoing throughout the hall and making me jolt. It was the hat's voice. "What do we have here… You're a tad special aren't you? Yes, indeed you are. A courageous heart from a courageous family who gave their lives for this castle and a cause greater than themselves. But more than that, I see a great loyalty in you… the kind that can sway hearts and minds. Given that, it better be… HUFFLEPUFF!"
The Great Hall erupted into applause as the Sorting Hat was lifted from the boy's head and returned to its place on the stool, ready for the next student. Edward smiled as a layer of yellow trimming fell upon his robes, characterising his uniform to his new house. He made his way to the Hufflepuff table, greeted by enthusiastic cheers and pats on the back from his new housemates, who wore similar yellow-trimmed school attire. As the applause slowly subsided, professor Flitwick cleared his throat to call yet another name.
"Margot Flint," He called out next.
Margot walked confidently to the stool, her posture straight and head held high. As soon as the Sorting Hat touched her head, it hummed. "Hm… resourceful, aren't you? Perhaps almost to a fault. I see you accomplishing great things here, but at what cost? Not to imply that you fear any drawbacks, oh no. You're the kind to keep your head up high in the face of adversity. So, I believe it can only be… SLYTHERIN!"
The Slytherin table cheered loudly, and Margot gave a satisfied smile as her robes too changed colour, this time to an emerald green shade. She then left the stool and joined her housemates.
Whispers broke out amongst the first year group. "She got sorted into the evil house!" I heard someone say. I frowned in confusion.
"Evil house?" I repeated.
"Don't listen to them." Reassured Connor. "It's just blind prejudice."
"Yeah, dark wizards haven't come out of that house for nearly ten years!" Alvarus enthusiastically complemented, though it didn't do much in Slytherin's favour.
"Dexter Rookwood!' Professor Flitwick Announced as the cheers died down.
A dark skin boy with brown curly hair stepped forward, his thick glasses reflecting more light than they seemed to let through.
"Hmm, talk about resourcefulness…!" The hat exclaimed. "You have quite the brilliant mind, don't you? Inventive, capable hands and an eye for detail. Yes, I know exactly where to put you… RAVENCLAW!"
The Ravenclaw table exploded in applause as the boy headed towards them, his robes now matching the blue trimmings of the other students.
"Tiberius Murtlock!" Professor Flitwick called next. I felt a sour taste in my mouth.
Tiberius stepped forward, his expression one of calm confidence as he took his place on the stool.
"Ah, yes. Another Murtlock, I see. Keen on carrying your family's legacy, eh?" Said the sorting hat, upon being placed on his head.
"Hey," I heard Connor whisper. "What's the deal with you two?" He asked, referring to me and Tiberius.
"Wish I knew, really." I responded. "I'll explain later."
The Sorting Hat continued its assessment of Tiberius, humming thoughtfully. "You possess an interesting blend of ambition and bravery, a cunning mind, and a determined spirit," it mused.
"Pfft. How much are you willing to bet he's going to end up in…" I began, interrupted only by the sorting hat as it announced:
"GRYFFINDOR!"
"What?" I frowned in confusion as the Gryffindor table cheered. How on earth did Tiberius fit in with them?
"Next up…!" Professor Flitwick called. "Connor Fletcher."
Connor glanced at me with a grin as he stepped onto the podium and sat on the stool, the hat being then swiftly placed on top of his red hair.
"Hm… confident, aren't you?" The hat spoke. "But not so much as to be mistaken for a sense of superiority, oh no. Underneath this smile lies a brave, yet kind soul that is always willing to lend a hand. Yes… truthfully, you belong in… HUFFLEPUFF!"
The hufflepuff table erupted as Connor left the stool and joined them, a big, sincere smile stamped across his face. I felt cold sweat muster in my hands as I realised my turn was only getting closer.
"And now… Alvarus Hagrid!" Professor Flitwick called next.
Alavarus' eyes went wide as he quickly walked up to the stool, sporting a nervous grin. I could swear I heard him mutter "Gryffindor, please!" at one point or another.
"Ah, Mr. Hagrid. Excited now, are we? It seems you've waited your whole life for this moment. Everything seems just about perfect, doesn't it?" The sorting hat teased as Alvarus kept muttering something to himself. "You must learn, however, that things don't often go as planned, and one is virtuous to know how to navigate and adapt to change. Therefore… HUFFLEPUFF!"
The Hufflepuff table erupted once again in applause, welcoming Alvarus with open arms. His face displayed a mix of surprise and slight disappointment, but he quickly masked it with a smile as he joined his new housemates.
"Let's see… Carlos Martin Edward!" Flitwick announced.
I held my breath as a cold knot was tied in my stomach. I glanced at Professor Longbottom, sitting to the right of the head table, who looked at me rather eagerly. I slowly marched forward, stepping onto the podium and sitting on the stool. I kept quiet as the hat was gently levitated to the top of my head, nearly covering my eyes. A few moments passed before it spoke.
"Hm… Carlos Martin Edward. Such an interesting name, one I don't come across all too often." It commented. "Must be rather surreal for you, is it not? Although I must say, you have taken the task of assimilating this new world in stride. You truly aren't like the others, are you, Mr. Edward?"
"Others…? What others?" I wondered.
"Ah, there's much you have yet to learn," the hat said cryptically. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. I can sense a great thirst for knowledge within you, a drive to uncover secrets and understand the world around you. And yet, there is also a certain… hesitation. Why do you hold back, child?"
"I… don't know what you're talking about." I deflected, unwilling to have that kind of conversation.
"And that's where you'd be mistaken, Mr. Edward." The Hat countered. "You know far more than you let on, and even then you believe yourself to know oh, so little. Such insecurity will only hinder your magical journey."
"Journey? What Journey? I don't… I don't even know what I'm doing here." I spoke, flustered.
The hat chuckled softly. "Ah, the age-old question of purpose. You see, every student who sits under my brim wonders about their place in the world, but you — there's something different about you. You carry the weight of a legacy, and the uncertainty of your own path."
"A legacy?" I repeated, confused. "You mean my grandfather?"
"Precisely," the hat confirmed. "Henry C. Martin left a significant mark on the wizarding world. His adventures and discoveries are legendary, but it is up to you to forge your own path, to build upon or diverge from that legacy. You have a unique opportunity, one that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards."
"I don't even know where to start," I sighed, feeling overwhelmed.
"That is the beauty of it, isn't it?" the hat said gently. "You don't have to know everything right now. Hogwarts will help you discover your strengths, confront your fears, and understand your true potential. But beware, for knowledge alone is not enough. You must also learn to trust in yourself and those around you, as well as to discern how to use said knowledge."
"Trust…" I whispered, feeling the weight of the word. "I'm not sure I'm ready for all of this."
"Ready or not, your journey has already begun," the hat said, a note of finality in its voice. "Now, where to place you…"
The hat seemed to pause, as if weighing its options carefully. "You have a natural curiosity and an eagerness to learn, which would serve you well in Ravenclaw. Yet, you also possess a loyalty and a desire to protect those you care about, traits that are highly valued in Hufflepuff. There's also a hint of ambition, a drive to prove yourself, which Slytherin could help you channel. And let's not forget your courage, even if you don't recognize it yet, something Gryffindor could help you develop."
"I… don't know where I belong," I whispered, feeling more uncertain than ever.
"Fear not, child," the hat said warmly. "You have the potential to excel in any house, but it's your choices that will define you. So I will ask you a question very few are privileged enough to hear… where do you see yourself?"
I looked around the hall for a moment. Everyone seemed to be sitting… oddly still. I then realised the candles floating above us stopped moving as well. Time itself seemed to be on hold.
"Why is everything so…?"
"Ah, I was wondering when you were going to notice." The hat spoke. "You see, I thought our conversation warranted a bit of privacy."
"So… they can't hear us?" I asked.
"'They' aren't even here now. It's just us." Assured the hat. "So tell me, Mr. Edward, out of the four houses, where do you wish to go?"
I glanced around at the four tables again, looking for faces I could recognize. I think I might have grimaced upon spotting Murtlock amongst the Gryffindor students, so I quickly turned away. After that, my eyes befell the faces of Alvarus and Connor over on the Hufflepuff table. Perhaps…?
"I just… want to go wherever I'll be happy." I finally said.
"I see. In this case, it better be… HUFFLEPUFF!"
Time seemed to resume as the Great Hall erupted into applause. The Hufflepuff table cheered enthusiastically, with Alvarus and Connor clapping the loudest. As the hat was lifted from my head, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. My robes changed to match the yellow and black colours of Hufflepuff, and I stood up, making my way to join my new housemates. The applause and cheers were welcoming, but I still couldn't shake the nervousness completely. Alvarus and Connor were waving me over, their faces beaming with excitement.
"Welcome to Hufflepuff!" Connor said, giving me a hearty clap on the back as I took my seat next to him. "You're going to love it here."
"Yeah, we're going to have so much fun!" Alvarus added, his enthusiasm infectious. "I'm so glad we're in the same house."
"Thanks, guys," I said, managing a smile. "I'm glad too. This is all still a bit overwhelming."
As more names were called and students sorted, the excitement in the hall continued to build. There were names such as Sarah Harris, Kenray Woodcroft, Felix Fawley, Brian Hood... I could swear I heard someone named Robin Hood as well. I watched as each new Hufflepuff was welcomed with the same warmth and enthusiasm that had greeted me. It was comforting to see how close-knit and supportive the house seemed to be. Finally, when the last student was sorted and had joined their house, Professor Flitwick carried away the Sorting Hat while Professor McGonagall stepped forward onto the lectern, her voice carrying over the excited murmurs.
"Welcome, all, to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!" She announced. "To all first years, here you begin a journey that will shape the rest of your lives. Embrace the opportunities before you, learn from your experiences, and make the most of your time here, for Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you."
Cheers from all four tables ensued, and I too started clapping so I wouldn't be left out. Professor McGonagall soon signalled for applause to subside.
"Now, before our feast begins, I do have some important words I must share with you." She spoke. "First of all, the Ministry of Magic requires that you all be made aware that, this year, Hogwarts will be the site of an archeological expedition. A team of Curse-Breakers will be conducting excavations in the lower chambers beneath the castle, where promising discoveries have been made."
Curious whispers took place in the hall as students gossiped amongst themselves over this information. I was particularly not interested.
"Furthermore," She continued, "You must know that any and all student interference with dig site operations is strictly prohibited and will be punished accordingly. Similarly, any suspicious activity in the surrounding area must be reported to either school staff or to the expedition's leader, Curse-Breaker Rudolph Murtlock."
Hang on… Rudolph Murtlock?
I looked over to the staff table where all the professors sat and, sure enough, there he was, wearing his attire that resembled more of an armour than an outfit.
"Looks like you've got some family drama to deal with," Connor whispered, noticing my reaction.
"Not really, no." I muttered, my mind racing with questions. "I don't want any trouble."
"And finally," McGonagall concluded, "a few reminders. The Forbidden Forest is strictly off-limits to all students, except for those that wish to encounter a most painful death. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term, any and all interested parties should contact Quidditch instructor Madam Hooch. Now, let the feast begin!"
I barely had time to react to this information as loads upon loads of food materialised before my eyes, filling the previously empty tables with dishes I couldn't even describe at first glance. The combination of smells that hit my nostrils then reminded my stomach of the hours of inanition from the train ride.
"Dig in!" Exclaimed Alvarus as rows of hands reached to the centre of the long table and full dishes began to slowly disappear into random plates.
"Man, Hogwarts sure knows how to throw a feast," Connor said with a grin, loading his plate with mashed potatoes and gravy. "You're in for a treat, Carlos."
I nodded, too busy helping myself to a serving of buttery corn on the cob and fluffy rolls to respond. As I began to eat, the flavours exploded in my mouth, and I let out a satisfied sigh. It was the best meal I'd had in… well, forever, it seemed.
"This is… incredible," I managed to say between bites. "I've never seen so much food in one place."
"That's the Hogwarts kitchens for you," Alvarus said, grinning as he filled his plate with shepherd's pie. "The house-elves do an amazing job. You'll never go hungry here, that's for sure."
"House-elves?" I asked, my curiosity piqued. "What are those?"
Connor nodded as he poured himself a goblet of pumpkin juice. "A type of magical creature that has served wizardkind for centuries. Hogwarts employs them to do all the cooking and cleaning. They're really good at what they do, and they're happy to do it."
"Although they've been increasingly harder to find these days." The blue-haired boy named Edward Lupin chimed in to our conversation. "Ever since those factories took them all by storm."
"Factories? What factories?" I wondered aloud, my fork hovering mid-air as I turned to him.
"It's kind of a big deal in the wizarding world right now. There are these new magical production facilities, mostly owned by big corporations. They've started employing house-elves to work in their factories, making all sorts of things — potions, magical artefacts, you name it. The pay is better, and the conditions are supposedly nicer, so many house-elves have been leaving their traditional roles to work there."
"Is that… a good thing?" I asked, trying to gauge the reactions of those around me.
"It's complicated," Edward said thoughtfully. "On one hand, it's great that house-elves are getting paid for their work. It's a step up from the old days, you know? But on the other hand, some people think it's exploitative. The factories have been popping up everywhere, and they don't always treat the elves as well as they should."
"Plus," Alvarus added, swallowing a bite of his pie, "a lot of the old families are upset. They've relied on house-elves for generations, and now they have to start doing things themselves or find other ways to get things done. It's causing a lot of tension."
"Yeah," Connor agreed, taking a sip of his juice. "Some wizards think it's a sign of the times, you know? That things are changing, and not everyone likes it."
I chewed on a piece of roasted chicken thoughtfully, trying to process everything. It seemed like the wizarding world had its own set of issues and politics, just like the non-magical world. There was so much to learn and understand, and I couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed by it all.
"Have any of you been to one of these factories?" I asked, genuinely curious.
Edward shook his head. "I haven't, but I've heard about them. My uncle works for the Ministry of Magic, and he says there's a lot of debate about how to regulate these places. Some people think they should have more oversight, to make sure the house-elves aren't being mistreated."
"It's definitely a hot topic," Connor added. "Especially with families like the Malfoys, who've always had house-elves. They're not too happy about the idea of elves having more freedom."
"Malfoys?" I repeated, feeling a bit lost.
"They're one of the old wizarding families," Alvarus explained. "Rich, pure-blood, and very proud of their heritage. They were pretty influential back during the time of the Second Wizarding War."
"Oh, right." I said, trying to recall what I had read on the Grimoire. I should probably research house-elves next.
As the feast continued, I listened more than I spoke, soaking in the conversations around me. The Hufflepuff students were talking excitedly about everything, from their favourite magical creatures to the upcoming classes they were looking forward to. I felt like a stranger to most of the topics, to the point I began missing home again. I wouldn't know why though, because I've always been a stranger to conversations. It's not like I had a group of friends back home with whom I could always talk about anything, especially my quirky, niche interests. It's like I was missing an idea of 'home' that only existed in my head.
I absentmindedly pushed my food around my plate, my thoughts drifting as the noise of the Great Hall faded into the background. The excitement around me felt almost surreal, like I was watching everything through a foggy window. I wondered if I would ever truly feel at home here. The grandeur of Hogwarts, the magical beings, the entire wizarding culture — it was all overwhelming. A part of me longed for the familiarity of my old life, even with its mundane, non-magical routines.
"Hey, you okay?" Connor's voice cut through my thoughts, bringing me back to the present. He was looking at me with a concerned expression, his plate nearly empty.
"Yeah, just… thinking," I replied, trying to muster a reassuring smile. "I tend to do that sometimes."
"I get that. Just don't lose yourself, alright? There'll be plenty of time throughout the year for that." Connor advised me. I chuckled softly.
Just as I was starting to feel full, the dishes on the tables disappeared, leaving behind only the goblets and pitchers of juice. The chatter in the Great Hall died down, and I noticed Professor McGonagall standing again at the head table. She raised her hands, and the room fell into a hush.
"Now that we have all been fed and settled," she began, her voice commanding attention, "I would like the prefects to please escort the first years to their respective common rooms. Older students do not dilly-dally, tomorrow is a busy day for all of us. Goodnight and, to all newcomers, welcome to Hogwarts!"
The hall erupted into applause, and the sound of benches scraping against the floor filled the air as students began to stand and gather their things. I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see a girl with curly hair and a kind smile.
"Hi, I'm Hannah Pearce, the Hufflepuff prefect," she introduced herself. "I'll be showing you to the common room. Follow me, please!"
And so, me and the other hufflepuff first years stepped out of the Great Hall. Amidst a sea of students, it was rather hard to find my footing. Navigating the Entrance hall, we detoured towards a large archway that led to…
"This, everyone, is the Grand Staircase!" Hannah excitedly announced. "Watch your step, for it might change before you know it. Get it?" She joked as we all looked up into a tower of stairways that seemed to stretch infinitely. The stairs weren't static, either. They moved and rotated between platforms, making navigation between floors a maze of its own. It definitely went way past the seven stories I came to expect from my readings.
"It's like a puzzle," I said, my voice filled with awe. "How does anyone find their way around?"
"It's not as complicated as it looks," Hannah assured us, leading us down one of the moving staircases. "You'll get used to it quickly. Just remember to pay attention to where you're going, and don't step off the stairs until they've locked into place. Otherwise, you might end up on a different floor than you intended."
"Has anyone ever gotten lost here?" Connor asked, his tone half-joking.
Hannah laughed. "Oh, all the time! Even some of the professors have taken a wrong turn now and then. But don't worry, the portraits are quite helpful if you ever need directions. Just ask them, and they'll point you the right way."
As if on cue, a portrait of a stern-looking wizard with a pointed hat leaned forward from his frame. "It's true, you know," he said in a haughty voice. "We portraits are more than happy to assist lost students. But do try not to make a habit of it, will you? It's terribly inconvenient to be interrupted in the middle of a conversation."
I snorted, glancing at the others. Alvarus was grinning, clearly amused, while Connor looked like he was trying to keep a straight face.
"Thank you, sir," Hannah said politely to the portrait before turning back to us. "The Hufflepuff common room isn't too far from here. It's in the basement, so we need to take a few more staircases down."
We followed her down a series of steps that led to a lower level of the castle. The air grew cooler as we descended, and the stone walls seemed to close in around us, giving the corridor a cosier, more intimate feel. I could hear the soft murmurs of other students echoing from above, blending with the distant sound of the lake lapping against the castle's foundations.
"Here we are," Hannah announced as we reached a large, round door set into the stone wall. It had a large barrel on its front, a small peephole and no visible handle. "Okay, first years, this is where you'll need to pay attention. The entrance to our common room is hidden. You have to tap the barrel two from the bottom, middle of the second row, in the rhythm of 'Helga Hufflepuff.' Watch."
We watched as Hannah approached the door with practised ease. She counted the barrels, finding the one she needed, and tapped it in a rhythmic pattern: one, two, pause, one, two, three. The sound of her tapping echoed softly in the corridor, and the barrel door creaked open, revealing a warm, golden light from within.
"Just like that," Hannah said with a smile, stepping back to allow us a better view. "If you tap the wrong rhythm or barrel, a flood of vinegar will pour out. It's our way of keeping out any intruders."
I nodded, making a mental note of the rhythm she'd used. The idea of getting doused in vinegar wasn't exactly appealing. "So we have to do that every time we want to get in?" I asked.
"Exactly," Hannah confirmed, gesturing for us to follow her. "It's not too hard once you get the hang of it. Now, I want you all to give it a go at the barrel to practise, for I know someone is bound to be stuck outside the common room."
And so, one by one, the first years gathered around the barrels and tapped it just like she instructed. I kept thinking to myself that there were a myriad of ways one could pronounce "Helga Hufflepuff", so I paid close attention to see just how lenient the barrel was with the rhythm. Luckily, no one got soaked in vinegar until my turn came around. I was characteristically nervous over the prospect of messing up something as basic as knocking.
"Your turn now. Don't be shy!" Hannah urged as I stepped towards the stack of barrels next to the now closed entrance.
I cleared my throat and held my fist up. Before I could knock, however, the common room door opened up on its own, without any apparent input.
"Uh…?" I mumbled, unsure if that was me or if I'd done something wrong.
"That's… odd." Hannah mused. "It doesn't typically do this. Perhaps you could practise another time, you may step inside now."
I hesitated for a moment, looking from the door to Hannah and back again. The other first-years stared at me, some curious, others clearly wondering if I'd somehow gotten lucky and found a shortcut.
"Um, okay…" I said, stepping through the doorway nervously.
As soon as the golden lighting caught my eyes, the warmth of the common room washed over me. From where I stood, it looked like I'd stepped into a kind of cosy den, with walls of earthy hues and a low, beamed ceiling. Potted plants hung from the walls and ceiling, their leaves trailing down like green curtains as floating water bottles sprayed them wet. The air felt warm and moisturised with a sweet touch of incense, all the while a large fireplace crackled in the centre of the room, casting a comforting glow over everything. A few older students sat around the room, talking quietly or reading, casting us curious glances as we entered.
Hannah smiled as she ushered the rest of the first-years inside. "Welcome to the Hufflepuff common room," she announced, her voice filled with pride. "It's one of the cosiest places in the castle, if I do say so myself. Make yourselves at home, because this is your home now. And don't be afraid to explore a little — just remember to respect the space and each other."
Connor stepped in beside me, nudging me with his elbow "It's like walking into a hobbit's home," he said, grinning from ear to ear.
"It does have that kind of vibe, doesn't it?" I mused, getting a good look around.
"What's a hobbit?" Alvarus asked as he approached us. Both Connor and I stared at him unsure of what to say.
"Uh, I'll explain later." I responded hesitantly.
We wandered further into the room, taking in the various nooks and corners. There were study tables with comfy chairs, perfect for long nights of homework, and several low, plush couches that practically invited you to flop down and relax. In one corner, a group of students were playing a magical version of chess, their pieces moving and battling on their own. I noticed a spiral staircase off to one side, leading to the dormitories.
"Excuse me, Hannah," I called out, turning back to her, "which way are the bedrooms?"
Hannah pointed to the staircase. "The boys' dormitory is up that staircase, to the right. The girls' dormitory is to the left. Your trunks should already be up there, with your names on the beds. You'll find that each dormitory is shared by five students. We find that's the best way to build strong friendships. Any questions?"
I hesitated before speaking up. "So, do the doors to the dormitories also have some kind of security? Like, can anyone just go in?"
Hannah nodded. "Good question, Carlos. The dormitories are protected by enchantments that only allow students of the same gender to enter. If someone tries to enter the wrong dormitory, the staircase will turn into a slide, and they'll end up right back down here. It's a bit of a fail-safe."
Connor laughed. "Sounds like someone had a lot of fun setting that up."
Hannah grinned. "You could say that. Now, before you all head off to bed, I just want to remind you of a few things. First, curfew is at 10 p.m. sharp. Prefects like me will make sure everyone's in their dorms by then. Second, if you ever need help or have questions, don't hesitate to ask one of us prefects or Professor Bathsheba Babbling. We're here to make your time at Hogwarts as enjoyable as possible."
With that, Hannah gave us a nod and made her way to a group of older students who had gathered near the fireplace. The first-years began to disperse, some heading straight for the dormitories while others explored the common room more closely.
As the first-years started to spread out, I found myself lingering in the middle of the common room, taking it all in. The warm, earthy tones of the room, the soft, inviting furniture, and the smell of burning wood mixed with the scent of flowers from the potted plants — it was all so different from what I'd been used to. It felt safe, almost like a sanctuary.
Connor seemed to be enjoying himself, already chatting up some of the older students near the fireplace. Alvarus, on the other hand, was inspecting the plants, his eyes wide with curiosity. "These must be enchanted," he said, half to himself, as he examined a vine that seemed to move slightly, like it was reaching toward him.
"Well, this is a school for magic. It'd be weird if things weren't enchanted, don't you think?" I commented.
"True, but it's still no less fascinating!" He replied as the vine tickled his nose with a leaf.
You'd be forgiven for thinking I, more than anybody, should be the one impressed by all this magical stuff, yet I just… wasn't. All these whimsical displays felt lacking, almost hollow to look at. I suppose it reflected how I felt inside, if anything. I've grown so used to the everyday void that even the most flashy and colourful displays felt dull and grey.
Part of me couldn't understand where all this apathy was coming from. I didn't use to be like this when I was younger. At one point I was joyful, creative, outspoken and spontaneous. All that seemed to slowly fade as I approached my teens. I've since grown so scared of… everything. Is this what growing up was like? A constant fear and anxiety over what's to come?
I watched Alvarus play with the plants, his face lighting up with each new discovery. For a moment, I envied his enthusiasm, the way he seemed to find joy in even the smallest things. I wanted to feel that way too, to be genuinely excited about this new world I was in. But no matter how hard I tried, there was a numbness that I couldn't quite shake.
Shaking my head to clear my thoughts, I decided to retreat to the first year's dormitory for some alone time. Thankfully, the place was still empty by the time I walked in. I located and wandered over to the bed next to my trunk, its yellow sheets glistening under the soft lighting. I was surprised to see a familiar looking golden cat statue sitting on the bedside table, which I could only assume to be Auric in its inanimate form. Maybe that's how it slept? I couldn't tell.
I dug through my bag and retrieved the Grimoire, flipping through the pages as my fingers brushed against the textured paper. I thought of my grandfather, of how there is still so much I don't know about magic, about my family's history, and about myself. The Sorting Hat's words echoed in my thoughts, mingling with the quiet hum of the common room. "You know far more than you're letting on." What could that possibly mean? I was barely even aware of magic until a few months ago, and now I was sitting in Hogwarts, of all places, with an old magical artefact in my hands.
I kept flipping pages until I stumbled upon what seemed like a… blueprint? No, a map rather. My name was tagged in the middle of the page, likely indicating my position within the castle. I ran my fingers over the intricate designs on the page before me. The Grimoire always felt a bit... alive, like it was waiting for the right moment to reveal something. Yet, for all its secrets, I couldn't help but feel that I wasn't ready to uncover them just yet.
I noticed two names slowly approaching me on the map, those being Alvarus and Connor. The door to the dormitory creaked open as they entered, their faces flushed with excitement.
"Man, this place is amazing," Connor said as he flopped onto the bed next to mine, kicking off his shoes with a satisfied sigh. "I could get used to this. How about you, Carlos? You feeling more settled?"
I glanced up, forcing a small smile. "Yeah… it's all starting to sink in, I guess."
Alvarus, still buzzing with energy, sat cross-legged at the foot of his bed. "Did you guys see all the plants? I could spend all day just learning how they enchant them to grow like that! This place really is something special."
"Right? And the food! I'm pretty sure I ate more at dinner than I've ever eaten in one sitting." Connor laughed, stretching his arms behind his head. "Hufflepuff's already feeling like home."
"Yeah," I murmured, though I wasn't sure I fully believed it yet. The warmth of the common room was comforting, but the weight of everything — the magic, the responsibility, the unknown — felt like it was pressing down on me.
"You alright, Carlos?" Alvarus asked, leaning forward with a concerned look. "You've been kind of quiet."
"I'm fine," I replied quickly, not wanting to drag the mood down. "Just… trying to process everything."
Connor sat up slightly, his expression softening. "I get it, man. It's a lot. But hey, we're all in this together. And you've got that cool Grimoire, right? Bet that thing's packed with all kinds of secrets."
"Yeah, maybe," I muttered, though I wasn't sure if I was ready to dive into those secrets just yet. There was a strange weight to it — like the more I learned, the further away I felt from the person I used to be.
Alvarus hopped off his bed and came over to take a closer look at the Grimoire. "You think it has any cool spells? Maybe something we could try out tomorrow?"
I raised an eyebrow. "I don't think I'm ready to try out any spells from this thing."
Connor laughed. "Probably for the best. Last thing we need is for you to accidentally set the common room on fire."
Alvarus chuckled, but there was an earnestness in his eyes as he studied the book. "Still, it's pretty amazing that you've got something like that. Maybe it's like a guide, you know? Something to help you figure all this out."
"Or to prompt further questions…" I said quietly, running my fingers along the edge of the pages. There was a small comfort in the idea that the Grimoire could be a guide, a piece of my grandfather's legacy helping me navigate this strange new world. But it also felt like a responsibility — one I wasn't sure I was ready to carry. I closed the book gently and set it on my bedside table. "I'll look at it later," I said. "Right now, I think I just need to wind down."
Connor stretched and yawned. "Can't argue with that. It's been a long day. I don't know about you guys, but I'm wiped."
Alvarus nodded, though he still seemed full of energy. "Yeah, I guess we should get some rest. Big day tomorrow, right?"
"Right," I echoed, feeling the exhaustion starting to catch up with me. It had been such a whirlwind of new experiences — from the train ride, the sorting, and now this entirely new world at Hogwarts. As the night went on and the lights went out, I kept getting lost in thought, wondering if any of this was actually real.
As I lay there, staring up at the ceiling of the dormitory, the soft sounds of breathing around me only made the silence in my own mind feel louder. Sleep didn't seem to want to come, no matter how much I willed it. My mind was racing with everything I'd experienced today, and every time I closed my eyes, I was met with the overwhelming image of the Grimoire, its pages filled with knowledge I wasn't sure I was ready to face.I rolled over, trying to get comfortable, but it was no use. With a sigh, I threw off the blankets and sat up, glancing at the Grimoire on my bedside table. It sat there, innocently enough, but I could feel its presence, like it was waiting for me to open it again, to discover something new, something important. I didn't want to, though. Not yet.
Instead, I found myself thinking about home. I missed my family more than I thought I would. I wondered what Mum and Dad were doing right now — probably worrying about me, hoping I was okay. J would be pretending not to care, but I knew better. He'd always been that way, distant but protective in his own way. I should write to them tomorrow. Maybe that would help ease some of this anxiety.
I glanced over at Connor, who was already fast asleep, his chest rising and falling steadily. Alvarus, on the other hand, was still tossing a little, though he seemed more restless than anything. I wondered if he was struggling with all of this too or if his excitement was keeping him awake. Either way, I figured I wasn't the only one dealing with the weight of new expectations.
Unable to just sit still, I swung my legs out of bed and quietly made my way to the window. The cool night air brushed against my face as I pushed it open just a crack, letting the breeze filter in. From there, I could see the grounds of Hogwarts stretching out into the darkness, the lake glistening faintly under the moonlight. It was beautiful, in a way that made me feel even more out of place.
I then remembered everything that professor Longbottom had told me, about me being in danger of becoming an Obscurus. The whole idea of that seemed so distant, so impossible, but then again… everything felt impossible a few months ago. I realised that, despite how I was feeling, I was still really lucky to be where I was. Things could have gone so much worse for me or my family, and most of these people have been nothing but helpful thus far.
I knew I wasn't alone. I just had to bring myself to believe it.
The room was cloaked in darkness, the only light coming from the glowing mint green cauldron in its centre. The walls were high, draped in shadow, and the distant echoes of Hogwarts' living corridors could barely be heard, like the faint whispers of ancient voices. Four hooded figures stood around the cauldron, their faces hidden beneath the dark folds of their cloaks. Each exuded a different aura, their very presence radiating the distinct energy of the house they represented.
One by one, they lowered their hoods as they stared down into the cauldron. The old clock kept on turning.
"Time is moving as it should," spoke the figure of Godric Gryffindor, his voice deep and resonant. Tall and imposing, he leaned slightly forward, his fingers resting on the edge of the bubbling cauldron. His tone was calm, but there was a flicker of tension in his words. "Both contenders are here, and yet, I sense hesitation within one of them."
"One's fear is a reflection of the world he left behind," responded the second figure. Rowena Ravenclaw's voice was soft, yet it carried the weight of wisdom. She moved a hand towards a small flame hovering above the cauldron, causing it to flicker and cast strange shadows on her face. "But fear, if nurtured correctly, can lead to wisdom. He seeks knowledge, even if he does not yet understand what he is searching for."
"He seeks much more than knowledge," interrupted the third figure, his voice colder and sharper. Salazar Slytherin, standing slightly apart from the others, let out a low hiss of displeasure. "He is an enigma, much like his grandfather. The other has the advantage, but reeks of pride and prejudice. There is potential in both of them, but also great danger. We must be wary of what they might awaken — within themselves, and within these walls."
"Awaken?" a warm voice countered, its tone full of kindness and patience. The fourth figure, Helga Hufflepuff, stepped forward, her presence softer but no less powerful. "Both boys have been shaped by uncertainty, but they do not lack heart. It is not danger they seek, but belonging. If we guide them gently, they will find their place."
Godric lifted his head slightly, the shadow of his long hair shifting. "They will face trials, whether they are ready or not. The castle will test them, as it has tested many before. But the Grimoire... it is already revealing too much."
"The Grimoire was not meant to remain silent forever," Rowena responded, her voice thoughtful. "It was crafted with purpose, a tool for the curious mind. The boy's bond with it is no accident. It senses the potential within him, though whether he can interpret its messages is yet to be seen."
"The Grimoire is key," Salazar added, his voice filled with disdain. "But keys can open many doors, not all of which are meant to be walked through. If he stumbles into the wrong ones, he could disrupt the very balance of this castle."
"And yet," Helga said softly, "it is balance that must be maintained. Neither are alone in this journey. Their companions, both loyal and brave, will keep them grounded. Together, they will face what lies ahead."
There was a brief silence, the weight of the Founders' words hanging in the air like a palpable force. The flame flickered again, this time switching to a red colour, contrasting with that of the cauldron, which now bubbled violently. They all stared at it tensely.
"Something stirs within the castle," Godric said, breaking the silence. "There are forces at play we cannot ignore. The Curse-Breaker's presence brings unease. His intentions are clouded, but his interest in the boy is clear. And what he seeks beneath the castle..."
"He seeks power," Salazar interrupted, his voice cold and unwavering. "Old magic. Forbidden knowledge. He is no better than the ones who came before him, those who sought to unearth what should have remained buried. He must be watched."
Rowena's voice was contemplative. "The Curse-Breaker is clever, but arrogance blinds him. He believes he can control what he finds. But his son… his son may be the one to unravel his plans."
"Let us hope that he does not lose himself in the process," Helga added quietly. "He carries much already, and his heart is heavy. But there is light within him, a light that could guide him through the darkness."
"Darkness will come," Salazar said ominously, his voice laced with a warning. "It always does. The question is not whether they can face it, but whether they will survive it."
Godric was the first to speak again, his voice steady but filled with purpose. "They will either rise to their destiny, or fall beneath the weight of it. But they will not face it alone. Hogwarts will guide them. And we will watch."
"And so it begins," Salazar whispered, his voice echoing like a distant storm.
With that, the four figures turned away from the cauldron, their forms dissolving into the shadows, leaving only the flickering flame behind, burning ever brighter in the growing darkness.
Author Notes: Thanks for reading, be sure to leave a review! Don't forget to share this story with your peers.