The boats reached the dock, and the group of first-years climbed the stone steps leading to the castle. Hagrid's massive fist knocked on the heavy wooden doors, the sound echoing through the silent night. The younger students shifted with nervous anticipation as the door creaked open.
A stern-faced witch with black hair pulled into a tight bun and clad in greenish robes appeared. Professor Minerva McGonagall stood tall, her sharp eyes scanning the group.
"Welcome to Hogwarts," she said briskly. "Follow me."
Alex blended in with the first-years, his calm demeanor setting him apart from their nervous energy. As they entered the Great Hall, the sight took their breath away. The enchanted ceiling reflected a starry, cloudless night, and countless floating candles illuminated the long tables where older students sat.
The senior students' attention turned to the new arrivals, scanning them with curiosity. Their murmurs grew louder as they noticed Alex at the back of the line.
"Who is that boy?" whispered one of the Hufflepuff seniors.
"He doesn't look like a first-year," said another.
The Ravenclaw girls were abuzz with excitement. "He's so handsome!" one exclaimed.
"I hope he's sorted into Ravenclaw," another added, her eyes sparkling.
Meanwhile, at the Slytherin table, Daphne Greengrass observed Alex with a calculating gaze. "He looks like a noble," she mused, her voice tinged with interest. "I'm sure he'll be in Slytherin."
Alex's composed posture, the slight golden hue in his brown hair, and the sharp silver streaks glinting under the candlelight made him stand out. His confident stride and air of quiet authority left an impression of maturity far beyond his supposed age.
At the Gryffindor table, Hermione and the Weasley siblings stared in shock.
"I didn't know Mr. Alex had a child," Fred whispered, wide-eyed.
"Me neither," Percy added, his forehead creased in thought. "He didn't mention it during the holidays."
Hermione, however, remained silent. Her thoughtful gaze lingered on Alex as realization dawned. "That's not his child," she murmured under her breath, her heart racing. "That's him."
Alex caught sight of their astonished faces and offered a warm smile, his eyes twinkling with mischief. He made his way to the front of the line, and the first-years instinctively parted for him.
Professor McGonagall addressed the hall. "Before we begin sorting the first-years, I have an announcement," she said, her clear voice ringing out. "This year, Hogwarts is welcoming a transfer student who will be joining our second-year class."
A wave of whispers spread through the Great Hall.
"A transfer student?"
"That's so rare!"
"Maybe he's from America."
"He's definitely taller than the first-years."
Professor McGonagall raised her hand for silence. "We will be sorting him first to determine his house."
The Sorting Hat, sitting on its stool, began its customary song:
Oh, place me on your head, my friend,
And let me take a peek,
To find the house where you belong,
The traits you truly seek.
Gryffindor for courage bold,
And hearts that never yield,
Or Ravenclaw, where wisdom's light
Is like a shield.
Hufflepuff, so kind and true,
With patience at their core,
Or Slytherin, the clever few,
Who strive to win and soar.
So don't be shy, your fate awaits,
Let Sorting now be done,
For Hogwarts is your second home—
Your journey's just begun!
Professor McGonagall turned toward Alex. "Mr. Alex Anderson, please come forward and sit on the stool."
The hall fell silent as Alex stepped forward, his every move drawing curious stares. Before sitting, he withdrew his silver wand and cast a silent spell.
The Sorting Hat glowed as restorative and purification magic swept over it. The patches and holes vanished, and its surface transformed into smooth, shiny leather.
Gasps filled the room.
"The hat's been like that for centuries!"
"I didn't even hear him say a spell!"
The professors sat up straight, especially Professor Filius Flitwick, who knew all too well how difficult it was to cast magic on the Sorting Hat.
The Sorting Hat was speechless for a moment, then shrieked, "Oh my goodness! Finally! I'm no longer an ugly, tattered hat! Look at me… I'm beautiful!"
Dumbledore coughed lightly, breaking the hat's self-congratulatory monologue.
Alex picked up the now clean hat, sat on the stool, and placed it on his head.
"Thank you," the Sorting Hat said in his mind. "I'll honor your wishes, without prying into your character. Which house do you prefer?"
"Are you sure? I'm sure Dumbledore must have asked you to gain information about me, didn't he?" said Alex.
"Oh, don't mind him. A favor for a favor, I will listen to your request." the Sorting Hat replied dismissively.
"Interesting choice," the hat mused. "You would do well there. Very well, then."
The Sorting took longer than expected, and the students buzzed with speculation, craning their necks to see. Finally, the hat shouted:
"RAVENCLAW!"
The Ravenclaw table erupted into cheers. Hermione, however, was disappointed, while the Weasleys, despite their regret, clapped, happy for Alex. Professor Flitwick also clapped joyfully, pleased to have a promising student join his house.
Luna Lovegood, also sorted into Ravenclaw moments later, took the seat beside him, much to the envy of other girls.
The Sorting Ceremony continued, and soon, the feast began. Alex glanced toward the direction of the Black Lake, sensing the approach of a flying car. A knowing smile played on his lips as he turned back to the table, enjoying the lavish meal and the lively chatter of his new housemates.