The platform buzzed with the clamor of farewells and the excitement of new beginnings. Families exchanged hurried goodbyes, and students clambered onto the Hogwarts Express with eager anticipation. I stood at the threshold between platforms 9 and 10, feeling a blend of exhilaration and trepidation. My trunk weighed down with books and supplies, seemed to anchor me, and Artemis, my owl, shifted nervously on my shoulder. This was my first year at Hogwarts, a transition not just from another magical school but from a life where I'd been homeschooled—if that's what you could call it.
My home life had been far from ideal. I had been compelled to clean and provide for parents who were more interested in their comfort than in my well-being. Everything I knew about magic was self-taught, a desperate quest for knowledge in an environment that offered little support. Now, stepping into this new world, I felt like an outsider—an explorer in a land both wondrous and intimidating.
I studied the barrier before me with a mix of curiosity and resolve. It looked ordinary enough, but I knew it concealed powerful enchantments. I had read about the magic required to pass through it—confidence was key. This was just another challenge, a test of the same determination that had carried me through the difficulties of my past. I took a deep breath, ready to confront this new hurdle with the same grit I had learned to rely on.
As I prepared to make my attempt, a voice interrupted my focus. "Need a hand?"
I turned sharply to see a group of students nearby, led by a tall boy with dark hair and an air of quiet authority. His Slytherin tie was impeccably knotted, and his friends flanked him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and disdain. Their casual stance did little to hide the judgmental glances they threw my way.
"I'm Mable Carter," I said, trying to maintain my composure despite the unease bubbling inside me. "It's my first year at Hogwarts, and I'm not sure how to get through this barrier. I've been homeschooled up until now."
The boy, Matteo, gave me a once-over that bordered on indifference. Before he could respond, a sneering girl with icy eyes cut in. "Homeschooled? Bet you're practically clueless. Should be fun watching you struggle."
Her friends snickered, their laughter dripping with condescension. I felt a familiar sting of irritation but forced myself to remain calm. "Everything I know, I taught myself," I replied, letting a hint of my inner strength show through. "And I've learned quite a lot despite my circumstances."
Matteo's gaze flickered with something unreadable but maintained his detached demeanor. "Just walk straight at it with confidence. Hesitate, and you'll hit solid brick. Simple enough, even for someone with... limited experience."
His friends smirked, and one of the boys muttered something I couldn't catch but intended to belittle me. I ignored them, focusing instead on the task ahead. Skepticism and mockery were familiar obstacles—I had encountered plenty of them before. These were just new hurdles to overcome.
I gave a slight nod. "Thank you, Matteo. I'll keep that in mind."
With my resolve firm, I approached the barrier, holding my head high. The sensation of passing through was peculiar, but I emerged on Platform 9¾ unscathed. The Hogwarts Express stood before me, majestic and inviting. I allowed myself a small, victorious smile. Despite everything, I navigated this challenge successfully.
Matteo and his friends followed through moments later. "Well, you didn't fall on your face. Guess that's something," the sneering girl remarked, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Thanks for the vote of confidence," I replied dryly, resisting the urge to react more strongly.
Matteo gave a noncommittal shrug. "Try not to get lost once we're at Hogwarts. Some people aren't as... helpful as we are."
His friends laughed again, their mirth echoing as they walked away, leaving me to my thoughts. Despite their mockery, I had achieved a small victory by passing through the barrier. It was a reminder that even in the face of new challenges, I could find my way.
Finding a compartment on the train, I settled in with Artemis and allowed myself a moment of reflection. As the landscape outside blurred and London faded into the distance, I gazed ahead at the approaching Hogwarts. The castle loomed on the horizon, filled with mysteries and challenges. While the path ahead remained uncertain, I was resolved to face it with intellect and resilience.
Now, Hogwarts...
*Please give me feedback If this is too short or if you have suggestions*
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The Enchanted Locket
Romance*First book please by nice open to any suggestions!!* Mable Carter has finally found the education of her dreams. After years of being forced around by her neglectful family, Mable is determined to seize her chance at Hogwarts. Entering in her fifth...
