Chapter 14: Arrival at Hogwarts

Chapter 14: Arrival at Hogwarts

As the Hogwarts Express slowed to a stop, Ethan eagerly peered out the window, anticipation coursing through him. The platform was crowded with students, families, and the occasional witch or wizard in colorful robes. Ethan couldn't suppress the grin that spread across his face as he gathered his belongings and prepared to disembark.

Stepping onto the platform, Ethan was immediately greeted by the hustle and bustle of Hogsmeade Station. The air was crisp with the promise of autumn, and the sky above was painted in shades of orange and pink as the sun dipped towards the horizon.

Following Hagrid's lead, Ethan joined the line of students making their way towards the boats that would ferry them across the lake to Hogwarts. As they glided across the dark waters, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sight of the castle looming in the distance. The castle seemed to rise up out of the water like a mirage, its ancient walls bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight.

Arriving at the docks of Hogwarts, Ethan's heart pounded with excitement. Hagrid expertly guided the boats to the dock, where a group of older students stood waiting to assist the first years. Ethan climbed out of the boat and onto the wooden dock, the air cool and crisp as he took in the sight of the castle up close.

Following Hagrid through the castle grounds, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the magic that surrounded him. Everywhere he looked, there were signs of the castle's ancient and storied history, from the tapestries that lined the walls to the suits of armor that stood guard in the corridors.

Finally, they reached the Great Hall, and Ethan's breath caught in his throat as they entered. The hall was vast and grand, with towering pillars and a magnificent ceiling that twinkled with thousands of enchanted stars. Long tables stretched out across the hall, each adorned with silverware and goblets.

As they took their seats at the Gryffindor table, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling up inside him. The hall was alive with the chatter of students, the air buzzing with anticipation for the Sorting Ceremony that would soon take place.

Suddenly, the doors at the end of the hall swung open, and the students fell silent as Professor Dumbledore made his entrance. The Headmaster's robes billowed behind him as he strode towards the front of the hall, his eyes twinkling with warmth and wisdom.

With a wave of his wand, Dumbledore conjured a small stool and placed an old, tattered hat upon it. The Sorting Hat, Ethan realized with a thrill of excitement. He had read about it in books, but to see it in person was another thing entirely.

One by one, the first years were called up to the front of the hall to be sorted into their houses. Ethan watched with bated breath as his classmates donned the Sorting Hat, their fate determined by its whispered words. He couldn't help but feel a pang of nerves as he waited for his own name to be called.

Finally, it was Ethan's turn. With a mixture of excitement and trepidation, he stepped forward and placed the Sorting Hat upon his head. For a moment, there was silence, and then the Hat began to speak, its voice echoing throughout the hall.

"Gryffindor!" it shouted, and Ethan's heart soared with relief as he made his way to the cheering Gryffindor table. He exchanged excited looks with his new housemates, feeling a sense of camaraderie and belonging wash over him.

As the Sorting Ceremony came to an end, the hall erupted into applause, and the feast began in earnest. Ethan engaged in lively conversation with his fellow Gryffindors, sharing stories and laughter as they celebrated the beginning of their Hogwarts journey.

Throughout the evening, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement at the magical world that had opened up before him. He knew that this was only the beginning of his Hogwarts adventure, and he couldn't wait to see what the future held in store.