Violet Summer: The Philosopher's Stone

Chapter 3: The Sorting Ceremony

Upon their arrival, Harry, Ron, and Toni stepped into a world of enchantment and wonder. The air buzzed with anticipation as they took in the sight of Hogwarts Castle, its majestic silhouette rising before them. The carriages moved effortlessly, pulled by invisible forces, whisking them across the grounds.

As they disembarked near the edge of the Black Lake, the magical aura surrounding them intensified. The lake shimmered under the soft glow of the moon, casting a spellbinding reflection. The three friends exchanged glances, their eyes brimming with excitement and a sense of adventure. It had only been the beginning, of course.

Soon after the enchanting ride in the magical carriages and the breathtaking journey across the lake, the three new students found themselves navigating the labyrinthine halls of Hogwarts. Every step they took seemed to immerse them deeper into the mystical atmosphere of the castle. They passed by the moving portraits, their eyes, drawn to the captivating figures within. Each painting seemed to come alive, welcoming them with nods and friendly gestures. Lost in the wonders of the castle, Toni, Ron, and Harry stayed close, their bond growing stronger with each shared experience.

For once, Toni's attention was not consumed by the dark glances and whispered rumors from other students. She felt a newfound sense of acceptance and belonging, knowing that Harry and Ron had her back. Their unwavering support made the judgments of others seem insignificant. In their company, the opinions about her bloodline held little weight. Together, they forged ahead, braving the twisting corridors and hidden passages of Hogwarts, their hearts filled with anticipation for the adventures that lay before them. The whispers of the past and the shadows of prejudice were drowned out by the camaraderie and friendship they had discovered in one another.

After their whirlwind journey through the halls, the three found themselves standing on a staircase, waiting for further instructions. Toni stood between Harry and Ron, a sense of unity and friendship forming a protective shield around her. As her gaze wandered across the students nearby, she noticed their fleeting glances, quickly averted as if her eyes held some mysterious power to cast curses. For a brief moment, the unease she had felt before arriving at Hogwarts resurfaced, casting a shadow on her excitement.

However, a ray of warmth pierced through the uncertainty when her eyes met Hermione's. The two girls exchanged a smile, and with that connection, Toni felt the discomfort dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of belonging.

Suddenly, a boy with a round face and a chubby build approached Harry from the other side. "Blimey! You're Harry Potter!" the words began igniting a flurry of whispers among the students. The realization that they were in the presence of the famous Harry Potter spread like wildfire.

Harry's gaze darted nervously towards Toni and Ron, but to his relief, they wore mischievous smiles and suppressed giggles. In that lighthearted moment, the weight of Harry's celebrity status felt lighter, knowing that his friends were there to share in the excitement and provide support. The warmth was suddenly cut short when another student came up as a shadow before Harry. He was a tall and slender boy with a pale complexion, sleek blonde hair and ice grey eyes. He bore a side grin as he looked at Harry.

"I had heard rumors of Harry Potter being in the compartments on the train. Guess it is true," Draco said, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and amusement. His eyes sparkled with a hint of superiority. "My name is Draco. Draco Malfoy."

Ron couldn't help but stifle a cough, trying to conceal his laughter at the boy's pompous name. Toni, standing beside him, discreetly hid her face, avoiding direct eye contact with Draco.

"Think my name's funny, do you?" Draco sneered, his tone dripping with arrogance. Ron immediately fell silent, not wanting to provoke any further confrontation. Draco continued, his attention shifting to Harry then back towards Ron. "I don't need to ask who you are. My father told me all about the Weasleys. Red hair, freckles, and more children than they can afford." Just as Draco was about to turn away again, his eyes caught a glimpse of Toni. He seemed surprised to see her standing with a Weasley boy. "Antonia?" he questioned, his tone taking on a different quality.