The students in the Great Hall buzzed with excitement. The Sorting was about to begin, and the air was filled with noisy chatter and nervous glances. The line of first years literally shook in their respective shoes, awaiting their turn to be Sorted into a House. Anxiety pulsed through the room; as the teachers took their seats, the tension peaked and rose to a single, almost visible, point in the air. The Headmistress rose from her seat and tapped her water glass with a spoon. The great room quieted instantly.

Headmistress Hermione Granger-Weasley was a kind woman with a gentle face and motherly demeanor. Yet somehow, in the flickering candlelight of the Great Hall, she made a formidable figure. Her long brown hair was wrapped into an up-do, and her robes were spectacular: A shade of periwinkle that brought out a mischievous glint in her eye, made of a floaty material that elicited a smile from everyone who passed. She tapped her glass, and the students quieted.

"Students of Hogwarts," she intoned. "If you are experienced students, welcome back. You have another progressive, momentous year ahead of you. If you are new students, welcome to Hogwarts. You will experience many fantastic lessons and other incredible chances that are once-in-a-lifetime. I will explain the workings of the school and the imperative rules after you have all been sorted and fed. For now, let the Sorting begin!"

The Sorting Hat, battered as it was, began to sing.

"All of you new students, listen well. For I have quite a tale to tell."

The Hat went on to explain the Great Battle of Hogwarts, and all of the horrors which come from disunity and distrust. Its singing ceased, and the students applauded politely. The Transfiguration teacher, Professor Thomas, stepped forward with a sheet of parchment in hand.

"Abeforth, Julian!"

A small boy stepped up to the stool, shaking with fright. The Hat covered his entire head, and a ripple of laughter echoed through the Hall. "GRYFFINDOR!" the Hat proclaimed. The boy rushed off to his house table, which was cheering madly.

Before Professor Thomas could call the next First year, a flash of lightning and a clap of thunder blew the doors to the Great Hall open.