The next morning, Duy Anh awoke in a cozy dormitory room within the walls of Minh Triet University of Magic. Sunlight filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the unfamiliar surroundings. As he sat up in bed, the events of the previous night flooded his mind—meeting the mysterious old woman, receiving the letter, and stepping into a world of magic.
Still reeling from the whirlwind of emotions, Duy Anh dressed quickly and made his way through the dormitory corridors, marveling at the intricate tapestries depicting spells and mythical creatures. The air hummed with anticipation as students bustled about, some deep in conversation, others practicing spells in quiet corners.
He found himself drawn to the Great Hall, a majestic chamber with high ceilings and walls adorned with portraits of past headmasters and legendary wizards. At the far end of the hall stood a grand platform with a towering hat—a symbol he recognized from the letter as the Sorting Hat.
Minh appeared beside him, his presence reassuring amidst the sea of unfamiliar faces. "Are you ready for the Sorting Ceremony?" he asked with a grin.
Duy Anh nodded, though nerves fluttered in his stomach. "I suppose so. What happens?"
"We each take turns wearing the Sorting Hat," Minh explained. "It examines your strengths, aspirations, and qualities, then assigns you to one of the four houses: Long Vuong, Lan Hoang, Thien Loi, or Minh Long. Each house has its own unique traditions and values."
As the ceremony commenced, Duy Anh watched with fascination as students approached the Sorting Hat one by one. Some were sorted quickly, while others seemed to converse with the hat for several moments before a decision was made. Each announcement of a house elicited cheers and applause from its members.
Finally, it was Duy Anh's turn. He stepped forward, his heart pounding, and placed the hat on his head. The moment it touched his brow, a voice resonated in his mind—a voice both ancient and wise.
"Ahh, Duy Anh," the Sorting Hat murmured. "A seeker of truth, a heart that yearns for freedom. You possess courage and resilience, yet carry secrets buried deep within. Where shall I place you?"
Duy Anh held his breath as the hat deliberated, his thoughts racing. Would his family's expectations define his fate, or would he forge his own path in this new world of magic?
After what felt like an eternity, the Sorting Hat declared, "RAVENCLAW!"
A round of applause erupted from the Ravenclaw table as Duy Anh removed the hat, feeling a mix of relief and excitement. Minh clapped him on the back, a proud smile on his face. "Welcome to Ravenclaw, Duy Anh. You'll find yourself among fellow seekers of knowledge and wisdom."
Duy Anh joined Minh and the other Ravenclaws at their table, feeling a sense of belonging he had never experienced before. As he looked around at his new friends and the magical world unfolding before him, he knew that his journey at Minh Triet was only just beginning.