27th August: I'm 16 today, and I decided to start keeping a diary because my memory isn't the best. Since the beginning of this summer, I've been becoming very strangely forgetful, especially at school. That's how I've gotten around to actually doing this, because it's something I've wanted to do for a very long time. I often like to imagine I'm living life inside a book, and I intend on this diary becoming the book of my own story.

So, my name is Catherine Alice Carrow. Yes, I know you've probably heard that name before. It doesn't have the best associations, I will admit. I have a certain uncle and a certain aunt that once taught at the very school I now attend, during the time of a certain wizard-that-must-not-be-named's sudden and violent re-emergence into society - but we shall not dwell on that. It is common knowledge, and the bane of my life, mine and every other Slytherin besides.

Personally, I believe the reason I am in Slytherin House is because I'm just too honest. A true Slytherin with a thoroughly devious mind would ask the Sorting Hat to place them into a different house, so that no one would suspect them of being the bad guy - because, yes, of course, it's always us! I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of people have already done that. There aren't many of us in Slytherin these days, and we are the ones that are always getting picked on by the other houses - especially those self-important glory-seeking Gryffindors!

We live in a time of peace right now, and those Gryffindors just can't seem to content themselves with minding their own business. They need a dragon to slay, and we are the dragons (however harmless).

Personally, I don't allow myself to be bullied. I ignore taunts and jeers. I'm not easily offended (most of the time) and I try not to judge others on their opinions (unless they're actively trying to push their ideas onto everyone else -persistently!) On actions, however, I do judge.

I have a sister in Gryffindor, and I'll say this - she gets bullied too. She's pretty good at ignoring it - most of the time.

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

Now, I suppose, is the cue to introduce my siblings.

Jared is a year younger than me, he is in Slytherin too. He'll be starting his 5th year this September. He's obsessed with muggle weapons and battle history. Even as I'm writing this, he is in the garden practicing fighting with swords (noisily!) with with a very reluctant Ed.

That brings me to Ed. His proper name is Edward. He's in Ravenclaw, though we were all very surprised when he was sorted, as he is the most ambitious out of all of us, and we were certain he would be in Slytherin. He'll be in the 4th year when we go back.

Then there's Charlotte (Lotty), my Gryffindor sister, and the only person in the world I can actually call my best friend. Even though she's nearly 4 years younger than me (only a second year). Despite the fact we are in completely opposite houses, we share a lot of similarities and have a lot in common. Though there are some differences. Lotty is a lot more stubborn. She is also very upfront about things, if she thinks something is wrong, she will not compromise. I, on the other hand, will seek compromise if it means peace.

Finally, my youngest sibling, Anita, who will be very soon beginning her 1st year at Hogwarts. She is yet to be sorted - but we shall see! As for Anita, it could take an entire book to describe her! A book as long as her hair (which is longer than she is tall, so she always has to tie it up). She is always up to something!

I've got a feeling that this year in particular is going to be - gruelling! Those Gryffindors, this summer, formed a secret society of some kind. Obviously to spy on us and make sure we're not up to 'the usual Slytherin shenanigans'. I've said a few things, and some people probably have grudges, so I have to be prepared to be on the lookout. One good thing about having a sister in Gryffindor, is the intel. Though she is not a member of their 'secret' organisation.

I can play this to my advantage though. It could be terrible, but it could also be interesting. Sometimes I think it's fun to have enemies. I suppose it depends on how many, and what kind of enemy they are. Some light sparring of words, pranks and a little less-than-friendly competition make life worth living, but things can sometimes get a bit... out of hand.

So I've decided to be prepared for anything.