The Secret of The Serpent | Harry Potter

Chapter 5: First Year

Riley opened his eyes slowly, sunlight filtering through the thick green curtains of the Slytherin dormitory. He propped himself up on his elbow, taking in the sight of his new surroundings. The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing across the stone walls adorned with banners of silver and emerald.

He sat up slowly, glancing over at his dorm mates—Draco, Blaise, and Theodore—still comfortably wrapped in their dreams. Each of them had a unique aura, Draco, with his platinum blonde hair tousled, had one arm draped over his face, shielding himself from the light. Blaise, on the other hand, was curled up in his bed, his dark complexion blending perfectly with the dark bedding, while Theodore lay sprawled out, his books piled precariously beside him, a testament to his late-night studying. Their presence reminded Riley that he was now officially a part of this enigmatic house. It was both thrilling and a little daunting.

Pushing the covers aside, Riley swung his feet over the side of the bed and onto the cool stone floor. He tiptoed past his sleeping companions, careful not to wake them. He felt a sudden burst of confidence—today was the first day of classes, and he wanted to start it right.

After a quick wash in the chilly bathroom, he dressed in his crisp black robes, adjusting the green and silver tie that marked him as a Slytherin. He slicked back his dark hair and checked his reflection in the polished surface of a wall mirror.

Satisfied, he headed down to the common room. The common room was lit with a welcoming glow, and it radiated warmth that contrasted with the cold stone walls. A large fireplace dominated one side, crackling softly as he crept closer. It felt oddly inviting, considering the imposing nature of Slytherin's reputation.

Riley's fingers brushed over the smooth, cold stone of the walls, feeling the pulse of magic that lived in every inch of Hogwarts. He wandered to a large window that overlooked the lake, the water shimmering with the first light of the day, and its depths were promising yet mysterious.

Deciding to head to the Great Hall early, he emerged into the cool corridors of Hogwarts, each step echoing against the stone walls. As he descended the grand staircase, he marvelled at the age-old portraits that lined the walls, their subjects seemingly alive, murmuring amongst themselves about the happenings of the day. He smiled at a portrait of a knight in armour, who gave him an approving nod, and felt his spirits lift a little.

Finally, Riley reached the Great Hall, the massive wooden doors creaking open before him.

When he arrived, most students were still lingering in their dorms, and only a handful occupied the long Slytherin table.

He settled at the far end of the Slytherin table, trying to remind himself that the day was just beginning. He filled his plate with toast, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of eggs, glancing occasionally at the other students.

"I suppose I better make a good impression," he mumbled to himself before taking a bite. With each morsel, he savoured the flavours.

As he finished his breakfast, he overheard bits of conversation from nearby students—a mix of whispers about their classes, snippets of excitement over Potions and Transfiguration. Then, just as he was about to sink into his own thoughts again, a familiar voice broke through the morning haze.

"Hey, Riley!" Harry called over the din of laughter and clinking utensils. "How's breakfast treating you? I don't think I've ever seen so much food in one place!"

Riley chuckled, his nerves eased at the friendly gesture. "It's fantastic! I barely know where to start. I think I might try a bit of everything before the year's over."

Harry laughed, a bright sound that made the corners of Riley's mouth lift. "You might have to roll yourself out of here!"

"I wanted to come say hi before heading over to the Gryffindor table," Harry said, glancing towards his new housemates who were animatedly discussing their summer adventures. "I'm a bit nervous about meeting everyone, to be honest."