Dumbledore had just announced a new mission, cautioning everyone about the dangerous corridor on the right side of the fourth floor. John couldn't help but think it was a clear invitation for the more curious students to investigate.
The Sorting Ceremony began with Hannah Abbott, who was promptly sorted into Hufflepuff. When it was John's turn, Hermione, already sorted into Gryffindor, watched him with anticipation. The thought of being separated from friends was unwelcome to anyone.
"John Wick," Professor McGonagall called out. John stepped forward, his smooth black hair and exquisite features complemented by his perfectly tailored wizard robe. The girls, not as precocious as those from his homeland, whispered among themselves, their faces flushed with admiration.
Approaching the Sorting Hat, John noticed a spider crawling on its brim and recoiled in disgust. The hat's unkempt appearance was off-putting. Surely, Professor McGonagall wasn't comfortable handling it?
As the Sorting Hat was placed on his head, it immediately voiced its displeasure. "What a disrespectful little wizard, as arrogant as one from Slytherin!" John was taken aback, not expecting the hat to be aware of his thoughts. Curious, he asked, "Is this Legilimency?"
"Legilimency? You know of such advanced magic? Unfortunately, that's not within my capabilities," the Sorting Hat responded. It explained that its method was far more sophisticated than Legilimency, being a creation of Godric Gryffindor himself.
The Sorting Hat then pondered aloud, "It's a difficult choice. You possess courage and a spirit of exploration, hard work and a sense of fraternity, cunning and ambition, and a dedication to honor... Slytherin would be a good fit for you." John was momentarily confused. The hat hadn't mentioned wisdom, indirectly questioning his intelligence. Moreover, he couldn't understand how he was associated with Slytherin, given his Muggle-born status and the house's preference for pure-bloods.
John's ambition was simple: to become a wizard of Dumbledore's caliber. He wondered how that could be misconstrued as ambition akin to wanting to dominate. It felt like a gross misrepresentation of his character.
Despite his internal protests, the Sorting Hat made its decision, announcing, "Slytherin!" John was stunned. Being Muggle-born, he feared the worst in Slytherin, known for its pure-blood supremacy.
"Don't worry, your honor will earn you respect in Slytherin," the Sorting Hat assured him, though John suspected it was payback for his earlier disdain.
With no choice but to accept the decision, John walked towards the Slytherin table, receiving concerned looks from Hermione and Neville. Life in Slytherin wouldn't be easy, especially when his only available seat was next to Draco Malfoy.
Draco, mistaking John for a pure-blood due to his appearance and demeanor, extended a hand in friendship. "Draco Malfoy, of the sacred twenty-eight pure-blooded Malfoys," he introduced himself with pride, expecting John to be impressed.
John, however, was not swayed by Draco's display of pure-blood status. He knew the challenges ahead in Slytherin, especially with his Muggle-born background. Yet, he also recognized an opportunity to change some of the outdated notions within the house, starting with Draco Malfoy. John Wick, with a demeanor as calm as the still surface of a lake, politely introduced himself to Draco Malfoy, who was puffing up his chest like a peacock in full display. Malfoy, taken aback by John's composed response, decided to extend a hand of friendship, albeit in a condescending manner. "Are you of pure blood or mixed heritage?" he inquired with an air of superiority.
John, unfazed by Malfoy's arrogance, replied indifferently, "Neither." This response left Malfoy momentarily stunned, his mind jumping to a derogatory term before he could stop himself. "You're a Mudblood," he blurted out, only to find himself on the receiving end of a swift punch that sent him reeling. The courtyard erupted into chaos, punctuated by the screams of Crabbe and Goyle and the stern reprimand of Professor McGonagall. Malfoy's first day at Hogwarts ended in the school infirmary.
By the first Thursday, John had already become a topic of conversation throughout Hogwarts. His punishment for the altercation was to polish trophies in the trophy room under the watchful eye of Filch and the indifferent gaze of Mrs. Norris, Filch's skeletal Maine Coon. Despite the severity of his actions, John's reputation as a formidable student was cemented. He even joked with Mrs. Norris, promising to bring her cat food, much to Filch's chagrin.
Upon returning to the Slytherin common room, John's presence immediately silenced the whispers. His actions on the first day had earned him the nickname 'boogeyman,' a testament to the fear he instilled in his housemates. Yet, John saw this as a necessary step to establish his place in the Slytherin hierarchy, even if it meant isolating himself from potential friendships.
In his private room, a concession made to prevent further conflicts, John found solace in his routine. His three-month-old dog, Tom, and his snowy owl, Basil, provided companionship amidst his solitude. John dedicated himself to physical training, a regimen designed not only to strengthen his body but to enhance his magical capabilities. As he exercised, he mused humorously about his unexpected path towards becoming more of a warrior than a wizard apprentice.
This narrative, once marred by awkward translations and unclear motivations, now unfolds with clarity, showcasing John Wick's unique journey within the magical world of Hogwarts. His actions, driven by a desire to assert his place and protect his dignity, set the stage for a story of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of strength in a world that categorizes individuals based on their heritage. After his workout, John examined his noticeably larger muscles, pondering whether it was common for a freshman to boast an eight-pack. It was an unusual concept, accumulating magical power through physical exercise. Yet, this had been his routine for many years, evolving into a steadfast habit. He concluded his day with a refreshing shower.
_________
If you are tired of reading I also have this converted to an audio novel on my youtube
https://www.youtube.com/@NovelAudioForge/featured
Direct Link to playlist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Hg-qsW4rM&list=PLKskshYG-OcPTR4-Nw7IWFEBZm07D8pBV&ab_channel=NovelAudioForge