just the two of us; h.j.p

disappointment

Persephone sat down in the carriage, beside Ginny, and across from Harry, who's eyes remained on his lap the whole ride, while Luna trailed on about the Quibbler and future plans.

She stared blankly at the trees as they passed slowly, the carriage vibrating under the mercy of the rocky path to the gates.

Wind gently rushed along, adding to the chill that the absence of sun had already provided.

The night sky shimmered above, stars dancing light years away.

Ginny cleared her throat when Luna stopped talking, looking around at everyone. " So, excited for this year? "

Silent nods came from everyone, followed by mumbles. " I'm excited. " Luna replied, leaning forward. " I hope there is pudding. "

" I love pudding. " Ron said.

" Mm. "

The rest of the ride was quiet, the only sound coming from the trotting of the thestrals and the rocks skidding after being squished by the wooden wheels that held the carriage up.

—

The Great Hall

—

As they stepped out of the carriage, rain began to drip down into their hair and leave tiny spots on their clothing.

" Oh, dear. It's raining. " Luna announced as they all began to rush towards the gate, where Professor Flitwick was waiting, bearing an umbrella.

The rain began to pour, their feet sloshing in the puddles that formed out of seemingly nowhere.

" Hello. Names, please. " he asked, almost shouting.

" You know our names, Professor. " Ron groaned as he ran past, followed by the rest of them.

Flitwick grunted, scribbling on his clipboard.

The rain pounded against their heads and shoulders, their hair soaking. They all ran towards the hall, collapsing against walls when they were shielded by the entryway.

As they ran in, they left footprints and water droplets all over the floor, their clothes dripping wet.

Ginny laughed, twisting her hair as it dribbled from the edges, leaving tiny specks on the floor.

" Merlin, I hate rain. " Ron complained, fixing his shirt.

Out of nowhere, Harry flicked water at Persephone.

She gasped, turning to him. " How dare you! "

He laughed, running away and towards the steps to the Great Hall, leaving footprints the whole way up the stairs.

—

Hermione and Persephone walked into the room, as the Great Hall filled slowly with students.

Ron sulked behind them, significantly depressed that they were returning to Hogwarts.

Harry had found seats, and had already sat down, while everyone else was seats away.

They all sat down, and the first years were brought in. They trudged behind McGonagall, their clothes soaked.

They were brought up to the front of the room and gathered in front of the Sorting Hat. Suddenly, the Sorting Hat broke into song, singing of the houses and the founders of Hogwarts.

The group of first years looked horrified as the sorting ceremony began and each house had gained a few new members.

Harry and Persephone looked over to Seamus, who was quite a bit away from them. He scoffed, glancing back to his group.