Scene: The Hogwarts Express
The year is 2019
You step onto the Hogwarts Express, luggage in hand, and search for an open seat. Passing by various compartments, you spot one with a friendly-looking girl about your age, with bright orange-red hair tied in two pigtails and warm, curious brown eyes.
Lily: "Hi! I’m Lily Luna Potter. Are you a first-year too? Mind if I sit with you?"
You introduce yourself, and she smiles, scooting over to make room.
Lily: "So, what do you think about the Sorting? I’ve been trying to imagine which house I’ll be in, but honestly, they all sound pretty amazing! Gryffindor’s known for bravery, but Ravenclaw has the clever ones, and Hufflepuff… well, everyone says they’re the kindest. And Slytherin sounds exciting too—they’re really ambitious."
As the train rumbles along, you and Lily chat about your hopes for the year, what classes might be like, and, of course, the Sorting.
The two of you chat about the houses, classes, and what you’re most excited for. By the time you arrive, it already feels like you’ve made a new friend.
The Hogwarts Castle – Sorting Ceremony
After the train ride and an awe-inspiring boat journey across the lake, you and Lily enter the Great Hall with the other first-years. You gaze up at the enchanted ceiling, which reflects a starry sky, and take in the four long tables, each filled with students eagerly awaiting the new additions to their houses.
You and Lily arrive at the Great Hall with the other first-years, all of you looking around in awe at the enchanted ceiling and the four house tables stretching before you. Professor McGonagall begins the Sorting Ceremony, calling each student one by one.
When it’s Lily’s turn, she gives you a quick, nervous smile before sitting on the stool as the Sorting Hat is placed on her head. After a brief pause, the Sorting Hat announces:
