The Hogwarts Express, as majestic and grand as the school it was transporting students to, waited patiently at the platform. It seemed almost alive as steam and smoke belched out of its chimney in a chaotic yet rhythmic pattern. Ravi, dressed in the official Hogwarts school robe, made his way through the train’s many carriages until he reached the final cabin. His sole companion was the solitude he sought, for he had no desire to forge connections or engage in idle chatter with teenagers.
Since his awakening into the Wizarding World a mere day ago, Ravi’s thoughts had been consumed by a single yearning: to wield magic. The Harry Potter books had painted a vivid picture of a place where spells and enchantments thrived, where wonders were born with a flick of a wand. But an undercurrent of caution had held him back, fear of attracting the attention of the Ministry of Magic, for he knew well the restrictions placed upon underage magic.
However, the Hogwarts Express was a sanctuary, an exception to the rule, though not many knew, where fledgling sorcerers were permitted to embrace their potential. It was here, within the confines of this magical locomotive, for the first time, that Ravi dared to try his hand at the arcane arts.
Eager to satiate his curiosity, he whispered the incantation, “Lumos,” his voice tinged with anticipation.
Yet, to his dismay, his wand remained dormant, devoid of any luminous response. Ravi repeated the spell, pouring his focus and will into the incantation, but still, the darkness prevailed. Undeterred, he attempted other spells, desperate to elicit a reaction. “Wingardium Leviosa,” he uttered, yearning for the power to levitate objects. Again, disappointment washed over him as nothing stirred.
He shifted his attention to the compartment door, murmuring “Alohomora,” hoping to unlock it. Alas, his efforts proved futile, the lock on the door remaining steadfastly closed. A heavy cloud of frustration and anxiety settled upon Ravi’s shoulders, casting doubt upon his newfound reality. Did magic truly exist in this world he had transmigrated to? Was he simply a mere imposter, lost in the labyrinth of fiction?
Moments turned into an agonizing hour, with each unsuccessful attempt amplifying Ravi’s uncertainty. Perhaps he had been mistaken, his journey into the Wizarding World naught but a delusion. But the memory of the successful Portkey journey, the apparition with Professor McGonagall, the magical street of Diagon Alley and the vision of towering light at Ollivander’s shop still fresh in his mind, offered respite from the creeping doubt. They were vivid experiences, firmly rooted in his consciousness, testaments to his presence in this land of unknown.
Fatigue seeped into his bones, a consequence of the events that had unfolded in rapid succession. Ravi realized he had gone without food and sleep for over a day, the hunger gnawing at his stomach and clouding his focus. A longing for rest and nourishment tugged at his weary soul, urging him to seek solace in slumber.
With a resigned sigh, Ravi succumbed to exhaustion, his body surrendering to the allure of sleep. Dreams danced through his mind, the promise of magic intertwined with doubts that flickered like candle flames. The elusive answers lay just beyond his grasp, teasing him in the realm of subconsciousness.
“Wake up, lad! We’ve reached Hogsmeade Station. Move it!”
It was the loud knocking of a prefect that roused Ravi from his restless slumber. Disoriented, he blinked away the remnants of his dreams, his senses slowly adjusting to the harsh reality of his surroundings. Beads of sweat dotted his forehead, a stark contrast to the biting cold that seeped through the compartment.
Uncertain whether to feel relief or anguish, he realized he was still confined within the train compartment, not yet home.
Shaking off the remnants of sleep, Ravi fought against the grogginess that clung to his mind. He hastily straightened his disheveled robes and adjusted his belongings, trying to gather his wits amidst the urgency of the situation.
“Leave your luggage here. The house-elves will take care of it. Hurry up,” the voice of the prefect echoed once more as he made his way off the train.
With a sliding motion, the compartment door opened, allowing a gust of icy wind to rush in, causing Ravi to shudder involuntarily.
As he disembarked from the Hogwarts Express, Ravi couldn’t deny the weariness that clung to his form, a weight dragging at his every step. The pangs of hunger persisted, accompanied now by the telltale signs of a fever’s embrace. “Well, isn’t this nice,” he muttered wryly, a touch of humor attempting to mask his physical discomfort. “Transmigration, magical world, hunger, and now fever. Next, I’ll be sorted into Slytherin. Because why not.”
As Ravi stepped off the Hogwarts Express and onto the bustling Hogsmeade Station, he was immediately enveloped in a whirlwind of sights and sounds. The cacophony of voices, the billowing smoke from the Hogwarts Express, and the excitement of students filled the air. Amidst the crowd, one voice stood out above all the rest: the unmistakable bellow of Hagrid, calling out: “Firs’ years! Firs’ years over here!”
Taking a deep breath, Ravi observed the scene before him. He looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of familiar faces from the movies he had watched, but no such luck. Uncertain of what to do next, he positioned himself at a conspicuous corner of the platform, allowing the throng of students to make their way off the platform. It was as if a small part of him hesitated to seek guidance from the prefects or older students, preferring instead to watch and gather his bearings.
His gaze fixated on Hagrid, who was surrounded by a group of wide-eyed, nervous first years. The boisterous giant seemed to dwarf the others, his voice booming through the station as he called out, “Any more first years?” Suddenly, as if a forgotten memory had resurfaced, Hagrid mumbled to himself and fumbled through his coat pockets.
With a triumphant smile, he produced a small parchment and read aloud, “Ah, ‘ere we ‘ave it, Kumar, Ravi Kumar!”
Meanwhile, a first-year student with a mop of unruly sandy brown hair eagerly listened for Ravi’s name. Upon confirming it, his eyes darted around the bustling station, searching for a familiar face. A surge of excitement passed through him as he spotted someone he recognized. He hurried forward, closing the distance between them, unable to contain his genuine delight. “Ravi!” he exclaimed, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.
“I can’t believe you’re here too! Why didn’t you tell me you were going to Hogwarts?”
“Huh?” Ravi felt a sense of familiarity wash over him, accompanied by a mixture of comfort and confusion, as he saw the boy.
Perplexed by the turn of events, Ravi replied uncertainly, “So-sorry? I didn’t know. I received the acceptance letter just yesterday.” Did I suppose to know him?
With no memories of this world beyond what he had read in the Harry Potter books and seen in the movies, Ravi struggled to identify the boy standing before him. The boy didn’t resemble any of the actors from the films, and Ravi couldn’t recall him from the books either.
“Does this mean you’re a wizard too. That’s brilliant! All those weird things I told you about that kept happening whenever I got upset, turns out it was all magic. Imagine the shock on Steven’s face if he finds out we’re magical. Did you know there’s a spell that can make someone dance like crazy? Just picture Steven and Jason busting moves in the cafeteria, it would be a riot!” the boy looked fascinated.
A gentle smile curved on Ravi’s lips, his expression tinged with a mix of emotions. Amidst the land of unknown, a subtle sense of familiarity tugged at the corners of his consciousness, a distant echo.
Glancing over at Ravi, the boy lowered his voice and spoke in a hushed tone, “You see, Professor Sprout, she came home just after my birthday and explained about me being magical and wizarding world. She warned us not to speak about witches and wizards to normal, non-magical people. That’s why Dad asked you not to come over to watch over us often. We didn’t know you were a wizard too,” the boy admitted, his words laced with hesitation and nervousness, as they walked over to where the first-year students were gathered.
Grateful that the boy seemed to share information without him having to ask, Ravi replied, “It’s okay. I don’t mind.” He chose to remain tight-lipped about his lack of recollection. Instead, he simply nodded and smiled, feeling a slight sense of relief as the conversation continued. The anxiety and fear of the unknown subsided a little. He waved his hand towards Hagrid, who was still enthusiastically calling his name.
“Oh, phew! I was worried you’d still be mad. You stopped coming around after that day. You haven’t visited once in two weeks.” the boy said with a smile, his fidgeting fingers now at rest.
“Hey! I just realized something. How come you got your letter now? Shouldn’t you have received it when you were eleven, just like me? It’s quite odd, isn’t it?” Ravi merely shrugged, choosing to remain silent.
“Wait, does that mean we’ll be in the same-”
“Well, blimey! ‘Ere you are, right on time!”
Just as the questions became more insistent, Hagrid approached the group, his massive figure casting a shadow over them. His gaze turned toward Ravi.
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“Professor McGonagall, she told me to keep an eye out for ya. By Merlin’s beard, I nearly forgot! So sorry ‘bout that. She wants ya to stick with the first years, y’see, and cross the lake together to get sorted. Come on now, no time to waste. Follow me, follow me!” Hagrid explained, his voice tinged with joy and apologetic as he walk forward towards the lake.
The group followed Hagrid, engrossed in conversation about sorting and Hogwarts as they made their way towards the black lake through the long stairway leading down the slope and cobblestone path.
Ravi remained quiet, observing the sandy-haired boy’s animated enthusiasm as his friend regaled him with stories of Harry Potter and the wizarding world.
It wasn’t until one of the boy’s friends, Jacob Patterson, called him by name that Ravi recognized the sandy-haired boy as Colin Creevey. Didn’t Colin Creevey always carry a camera around his neck in the movies?
The path eventually emerged into a clearing, revealing the magnificent sight of the Black Lake. Its dark, glassy surface stretched out as far as the eye could see, reflecting the surrounding hills and the majestic Hogwarts Castle standing tall on the opposite shore. A silent fell over.
“No more’n four to a boat!”
Enveloped by the serenity of the moonlit lake, Ravi’s heart stirred with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia. The tranquil waters reflected the ethereal glow of the night sky, casting a mesmerizing spell upon his fatigued soul. Ravi stepped onto the boat, joining Colin and his two companions.
As the boat carved a path through the moonlit waters, Ravi found himself captivated by the beauty that surrounded him. The moon cast a delicate glow upon the lake, its ethereal light dancing across the ripples. He traced his fingers along the edge of the boat, feeling the coolness of the water beneath his touch. It was in these serene moments that he allowed his thoughts to wander, to delve into the depths of his own hopes and fears.
The weight of his current situation bore heavily upon his shoulders, each passing moment a reminder of the separation from his family and the daunting unfamiliarity of the magical world that now enveloped him. He stole a glance at Colin, the one familiar face in this enigmatic journey, a small connection amidst the vast unknown.
In the depths of his being, Ravi grappled with conflicting emotions. He didn’t long for the family he had lost, not yet fully comprehending the magnitude of their absence. The realization of their absence had yet to settle deep into his bones, but he knew that in the weeks, if not months, to come, the waves of loneliness would crash upon him with relentless force, threatening to engulf him entirely.
Yet, amidst this somber realization, Ravi clung to a glimmer of hope. The dormant power that coursed through his veins, the magic that had chosen him for reasons still unknown, held the potential to bridge the vast distances between universes. The mere thought of it sparked a flicker of hope within him, igniting his resolve.
As Hogwarts Castle, majestic and resplendent, loomed closer with each passing moment, illuminated by the gentle glow of the waxing crescent moon, Ravi’s determination solidified.
“Heads down!”
As they disembarked from the boat, Hagrid led the group up from the underground harbour through a lift that opened to the Viaduct Courtyard, also known as the Entrance Courtyard. The courtyard serves as a central hub, connecting various parts of the castle and providing access to different areas of the school. It is a bustling gathering place for students and staff, especially during transitions between classes or when students are heading to and from the Great Hall for meals.
Ravi’s mind continued to wander as they walked on weathered cobblestones and beautiful architecture reminiscent of a bygone era, heading towards the towering entrance doors of the castle. The journey to the Entrance Hall remained tranquil, allowing him to immerse himself in the grandeur and mysteries of Hogwarts Castle.
Hagrid bid them farewell after he handed over the first years to Professor McGonagall, who stood outside the Entrance Hall, her expression slightly tense as if searching for someone. She addressed the first years, talking about the Sorting, the four Houses, and the House Cup. “Now, line up in an orderly fashion,” Professor McGonagall instructed the first years, her voice firm yet composed. “Follow me closely. The Sorting Ceremony is about to commence. Mr. Kumar, please come to the front. You will be the first to be sorted.”
With a wordless gesture of reassurance from Colin, Ravi mustered the strength to take a step forward, his hands and feet trembling with nervous anticipation. Being thrust into the spotlight, the center of attention, had always been his undoing, causing his limbs to lose control. Amidst his struggle to steady himself, he failed to notice the hushed whispers circulating among the other first-year students, captivated by Colin’s tales of his achievements from Muggle schooling.
Under the guidance of Professor McGonagall, the group ventured through a series of three doors, each revealing a new corridor that led them deeper into the heart of Hogwarts. Finally, they arrived at the fourth and final door, a grand entrance to the Great Hall. Crafted from thick, sturdy oak, the door stood as a sentinel, its imposing presence accommodating the ebb and flow of students, staff, and esteemed guests who traversed the castle’s halls.
As Ravi’s gaze fell upon the door, his eyes were drawn to the intricate carvings etched into the wood’s surface. Each pattern and symbol symbolized the rich heritage and magical significance of Hogwarts, paying homage to the essence and characteristics of each house. Flanking the door were two towering statues of valiant knights, their armor glistening in the soft glow of the torchlight, their swords held in a downward position, poised and ever-ready.
With a faint creak, the door swung open, seemingly aware of their approach. The Great Hall stretched before him, its long and elegant tables adorned with polished silverware, delicate china, and gleaming golden goblets. The promise of a lavish feast, worthy of wizards and witches, hung in the air, teasing his senses. His stomach rumbled, a poignant reminder of the hunger he had yet to satisfy.
Guiding the first years, Professor McGonagall led Ravi and his fellow newcomers to a halt, forming a line that faced the expectant gazes of the other students. The sea of faces seemed to glow like spectral lanterns in the flickering candlelight, their expressions a mix of curiosity, anticipation.
Amidst the students, wispy silhouettes of the school’s resident ghosts shimmered with an otherworldly sheen. Hands still shaking, Ravi’s gaze, seeking solace from the prying eyes, shifted upwards and beheld a breathtaking sight. Above, the velvety black ceiling stretched into infinity, speckled with stars that twinkled like promises of magic and mystery. It was as if the Great Hall itself opened up to the very heavens, defying the boundaries of the ordinary.
Sensing the weight of the moment, Ravi tore his gaze from the celestial expanse as Professor McGonagall silently placed a weathered, four-legged stool before the first years. Resting atop the stool was a worn, patched, and undeniably grubby hat—the Sorting Hat. As he pondered the significance of this pivotal moment, Ravi realized that amidst the whirlwind of events, he hadn’t even had time to consider the Sorting Hat. Confusion mingled with a hint of panic, but he resolved to maintain a “let’s just see” attitude. The murmurs and whispers of anticipation rippled through the Great Hall, the students’ eyes fixed on the Sorting Hat in eager anticipation.
Suddenly, a hush fell over the hall as the Sorting Hat’s brim began to move, as if it were awakening from a long slumber. Ravi’s heart skipped a beat as the hat straightened itself, ready to fulfill its sacred duty. And then, in a voice that carried through the vast hall, the hat began to sing:
> “Oh, once again, it’s time to sort,
>
> To place you where you’ll find support.
>
> In Gryffindor, where courage dwells,
>
> Where brave hearts rise and triumph swells.
>
> Hufflepuff, the loyal and true,
>
> A house where kindness always shines through.
>
> Ravenclaw, where wisdom lies,
>
> Where knowledge blooms and intellect flies.
>
> Slytherin, a cunning breed,
>
> Where ambition fuels their every deed.
>
> But remember, dear students, the choice is yours,
>
> To shape your fate through these ancient doors.
Ravi’s gaze swept across the expansive staff table, his eyes darting from one face to another in rapid succession. The number of teachers seated before him exceeded his expectations, a realization that left him momentarily taken aback. While everyone appeared quite different from their movie counterparts, he could still identify few from the books description.
> So gather ‘round, let the sorting commence,
>
> Embrace your house with pride and sense.
>
> Each one of you has a special place,
>
> Within these hallowed castle’s embrace.
The diminutive form of Professor Filius Flitwick, with his sprightly demeanor, stood out from the crowd. The kind countenance of Pomona Sprout, her round features radiating warmth, was a comforting sight. Rubeus Hagrid, the towering giant with a gentle disposition, made his presence known.
> Now, hold your breath, don’t be afraid,
>
> For the Sorting Hat knows where you’re best laid.
>
> It sees within you, your hopes and dreams,
>
> And guides you to where your destiny gleams.
it was the sight of Albus Dumbledore, the venerable and wise headmaster of Hogwarts, that startled Ravi. As he glanced in the direction of Dumbledore, he found the elderly wizard’s gaze fixed upon him, peering over the rim of his spectacles. Ravi quickly averted his gaze. In that fleeting moment, he could have sworn he saw a mischievous twinkle in Dumbledore’s eyes.
> Embrace your house, your comrades too,
>
> Together, there’s so much you can do.
>
> Through triumphs and trials, you’ll find your way,
>
> In this magical school, day by day.
>
> So let the sorting be fair and true,
>
> For Hogwarts is here to welcome you.
>
> With open arms and magic profound,
>
> May your journey in Hogwarts astound.”
As the melodious song of the Sorting Hat reached its conclusion, the Great Hall erupted in a thunderous applause, filling the air with excitement. Stepping forward, Professor McGonagall held a long parchment scroll and addressed the assembly, her voice carrying authority and anticipation.
“When I call your name, you will don the hat and take a seat on the stool for sorting,” she declared.
“Kumar, Ravi!”
Ravi’s heart pounded with a mixture of anxiety and hope as he approached the stool. The moment the ancient fabric of the Sorting Hat touched his head, it seemed to come alive, whispering in his ear and delving deep into the recesses of his being. He attempted to keep his mind blank, but memories, experiences, and aspirations flickered through his consciousness, creating a swirling vortex of emotions and thoughts.
“Ah, the latecomer, I see. Ravi, isn’t it?” the hat spoke, its voice emanating directly into his consciousness.
“Quite a unique situation we have here, don’t you agree?”
“Now, where to place you?” the hat mused aloud.
“Not Slytherin or Gr-Gryffindor,” Ravi responded taking deep breath, his voice determined.
“Why not Gryffindor? You possess a great deal of courage, as I can see. It might be precisely what you need,” the hat suggested.
“Not Slytherin or Gryffindor,” Ravi reiterated firmly.
“Hmm… let’s see,” the hat contemplated, its timeless wisdom guiding its decision. Time seemed to stretch infinitely as the Sorting Hat carefully considered the essence of the young boy sitting beneath its ragged rims. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the hat reached a conclusion, its resonant voice echoing within Ravi’s mind and the great Hall.
“Hufflepuff!”
Once again, the Great Hall erupted into applause, filling the space with jubilation. The Hufflepuff table burst into cheers and welcoming gestures, as they welcome their first newest member of this year. A wave of relief and excitement washed over him, his heart swelling with joy. Colin, with the unruly sandy brown hair, clapped with unabashed enthusiasm, mirroring Ravi’s infectious smile.