THE HEIR.

wait what

After the Sorting Ceremony concluded, Dumbledore stood up and spread his arms wide, his eyes twinkling behind his half-moon glasses.

"Welcome, welcome to a new year at Hogwarts!" he began, his voice warm and resonant. "Before we begin our feast, I would like to say a few words. And here they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you!"

The hall erupted into laughter and applause, and Dumbledore's smile widened. "And now, a few start-of-term notices for the newcomers. First years should note that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. Also, our caretaker, Mr. Filch, has asked me to remind you that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interested in playing for their house teams should contact Madam Hooch. Finally, I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."

With a final twinkle in his eye, he concluded, "Now, let us enjoy our feast!" The tables were suddenly laden with food, and the Great Hall filled with the sounds of clinking cutlery and excited chatter.

As the meal wound down, Dumbledore rose again. "And now, prefects, please escort our new students to their dormitories."

Quickly, Dumbledore manipulated the Slytherin prefect with a subtle use of mind control, ensuring Siddarth would be given a single room. The Slytherin prefect, a tall and composed sixth-year named Marcus Flint, approached Siddarth.

"Follow me, Valentine," Marcus said, leading him through the labyrinthine corridors of the dungeons.

When they reached Siddarth's room, it was clear that it was different from the others. It was a cozy, well-furnished single room, isolated from the usual dormitory setup. Siddarth looked around, feeling a mix of curiosity and slight disappointment.

"Why am I alone?" Siddarth asked.

Marcus, still under Dumbledore's subtle influence, replied smoothly, "It's for your own good. You'll have more space, more privacy. It allows you to focus and keep your things organized. Trust me, you'll appreciate it."

Siddarth nodded, smiling politely. "Okay, thank you."

He began unpacking, carefully placing his clothes and personal items around the room. On his desk, he set up a small perch for his most cherished possession: a small, blue phoenix bird his father had gifted him. The bird, named Azzura, chirped happily as it settled into its new home.

The room was soon filled with a sense of comfort and warmth. Siddarth made his bed and arranged his books and other belongings. As he worked, Azzura flew around, occasionally landing on his shoulder and nuzzling against his cheek.

Siddarth sat on his bed, looking around his new room. It was different from what he had expected, but he was determined to make the best of it. Azzura perched on his shoulder, and he gently stroked the bird's vibrant feathers, finding solace in its presence.

"Looks like it's just you and me, Azzura," he whispered.

Azzura chirped in response, and Siddarth felt a wave of calm wash over him. He knew this was just the beginning of his journey at Hogwarts, and he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.