The first week at Hogwarts flew by in a whirlwind of classes, spell-casting, and interactions with my new classmates. As the days went by, I found myself settling into a routine, quickly discovering that Hogwarts was everything Mattheo had promised—and more.
My schedule was packed with a variety of classes, each more fascinating than the last. Despite the excitement of new subjects and the challenge of keeping up with my peers, it was clear that I had a natural aptitude for magic.
---
**Potions with Professor Snape**
My first class of the day was Potions, taught by Professor Severus Snape. His dark robes flowed behind him like a shadow as he glided around the room. The atmosphere in the dungeon classroom was always tense, with students whispering nervously as Snape took his place at the front.
Today's potion was the Wiggenweld Potion, known for its use in boosting courage and energy. I worked quietly at my station, expertly chopping ingredients and stirring the potion with precise movements. The rest of the class seemed to struggle, their potions turning an alarming shade of yellow or bubbling over. I focused on my own cauldron, carefully adding the final ingredient—a pinch of powdered unicorn horn. The potion shimmered a bright, clean blue.
Professor Snape's eyes, dark and piercing, fell upon my cauldron. He moved with a deliberate grace towards me, his expression inscrutable. He peered into my potion with an air of cold disapproval, though I noticed a flicker of something—perhaps surprise—in his eyes.
"Miss Riddle," Snape said, his voice low and chilling, "it seems you've managed to produce a potion with exceptional clarity. This is... competent work."
I managed a small smile, though the praise was delivered in his usual curt manner. "Thank you, Professor."
"Don't let it go to your head," Snape added, his gaze lingering for a moment before he moved on. "This is only the beginning."
---
**Transfiguration with Professor McGonagall**
In Transfiguration, Professor McGonagall was as stern as ever, her strict demeanor a stark contrast to the warmth of Slughorn. Today's lesson was on transforming objects into animals, starting with teacups into cats.
My concentration was intense as I focused on the intricate spellwork. My teacup shimmered and then transformed smoothly into a sleek, grey kitten. It was a small, seemingly insignificant feat, but the accuracy with which I achieved it was what mattered.
Professor McGonagall approached, her eyes narrowing with approval as she examined my kitten. "You have a natural talent for Transfiguration, Miss Riddle. Excellent work."
---
**Charms with Professor Flitwick**
Charms was another favorite of mine. Professor Flitwick, though short, was full of energy and enthusiasm. We were learning the Levitation Charm today, and it was clear from the start that this was one of my strong suits.
I stood at my desk, wand raised, focusing on the feather before me. With a swish and flick, the feather rose gracefully into the air and hovered there, exactly as I intended. My classmates watched with a mix of awe and envy.
"Outstanding!" Professor Flitwick cheered, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "Miss Riddle, your proficiency in Charms is truly remarkable. Keep up the excellent work."
---
**Defense Against the Dark Arts with Professor Lupin**
Defense Against the Dark Arts was both thrilling and challenging. Professor Lupin was kind and approachable, with a deep understanding of the subject. Today, we were practicing defensive spells against Boggarts.
When my turn came, the Boggart shifted into the form of a monstrous spider. I felt a moment of fear but quickly cast the Riddikulus charm, turning the spider into a comical, dancing version of itself. The class erupted in laughter, and even Professor Lupin's face broke into a broad smile.
"Bravo, Seraphina," Lupin said, clapping. "You've shown great skill in handling the Boggart. Your control and creativity are impressive."
---
Despite the positive feedback and the admiration from my peers, I remained keenly aware of the secret I carried. Each day, as I excelled in my classes, the weight of my true identity seemed to grow heavier. I could easily outshine my classmates, but the burden of my father's expectations and the prophecy that loomed over me made it hard to fully enjoy my achievements.
As I walked through the castle one evening, heading towards the library for some extra study, I caught sight of Mattheo and Enzo in the corridor. They were deep in conversation, their heads bent together.
"Hey, Sera!" Mattheo called out, waving me over. "We're just heading to the library too. Want to join us?"
I nodded, joining them as we made our way down the dimly lit corridors. Enzo greeted me with his usual easygoing smile, and Mattheo's presence was as comforting as ever.
"So, how's your first week been?" Enzo asked, falling into step beside me.
"It's been great," I replied, smiling. "I'm really enjoying the classes. Everyone's been so welcoming."
"Of course," Mattheo said with a grin. "We wouldn't let you have anything less than an amazing time."
As we reached the library, Mattheo continued, "Oh, and you should meet some of our other friends soon. They're eager to get to know you."
I raised an eyebrow. "More friends?"
"Absolutely," Mattheo said, his eyes twinkling. "We have a bit of a crew here, and they're all good people. You'll fit right in."
The warmth of my brothers' camaraderie helped to soothe some of the anxiety gnawing at me. For now, I would focus on the positives—my growing friendships, my success in classes, and the support of my brothers.
Yet, as the days passed, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was brewing just below the surface, something that might challenge everything I had come to love about Hogwarts.
