Sorting Ceremony 2024-2025

Date: 1 September 2024 Interacting: Solo

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Word Count: 1,111 Location: Great Hall

Odette couldn’t believe her eyes. Growing up, she was exposed to quite a bit of magic, but nothing nearly as grand as Hogwarts. The Great Hall alone made her dad’s charms and transfigurations in the shop look like the work of a muggle magician. Here, living portraits chatter across every surface of the walls, and hundreds of candles hover in the high ceilings above the room, washing it in a soft, golden glow that almost twinkled like stars. Odette couldn’t help thinking that her mom would have loved it, but the muggle would likely never experience the enchanting view.

The first-year was so entranced by the dazzling sights that she could almost tune out the hundreds of students sitting among four long tables, openly gawking at the new students. Odette recognized a few of the houses from the colors on their robes. Her brother, Max, sported the bold Gryffindor red and gold before he graduated, and her dad was an inquisitive Ravenclaw back in his day. There was even a great debate in their family on what house her mom would have been sorted into if she was a witch. Her older brother insists the muggle would be in Hufflepuff because of her dedication, compassion, and strong morals which grounded the family in kindness, especially for the father-daughter duo who tend to lose their sense when it comes to business. On the other hand, Odette’s father makes the argument that what attracted him to his wife when they met was her tenacity, confidence, and passion, and the man was quite sure he had married a zealous lioness.

Of course, there was absolutely no question in her family’s mind of where Odette would be sorted. They hadn’t even asked her opinion on which house she’d prefer. No, in all of their minds, it was already an irrefutable fact that Odette would take after her father and become a clever Eagle. Frankly, the witch didn’t mind if she was sorted into Ravenclaw as she holds great admiration for her dad and would be honored to grow up in the house that made him so exceptional. Not to say it was her first choice or that she’d be disappointed if the first-year didn’t get in. If Odette was honest, she was rather indifferent to the houses. In her mind, whichever house she was sorted into, she was determined to forge her own path that would help her achieve her dreams.

Her family likes to joke that she’s a miniature clone of her dad, but she’s never tried to fill his shoes. If anything, the man encourages his daughter to do things her way and often helps support her in every endeavor, even if he would do so differently. What makes her bond with her dad so great is that they share a passion and a dream, but they never judge the other for their ambition, only finding ways to help one another achieve it. After all, they both yearn to develop new magical items that will make the name Leone’s Warding Wonders as well-known and reputable as Ollivanders, Madam Malkin, or even Weasley Wizard Wheezes.

That’s why when the Headmaster called out, “Leone, Odette!” the first-year genuinely didn’t know where the tattered-looking hat would place her. Was she a loyal Hufflepuff? She struggled to make friends all the time! Perhaps a charismatic Gryffindor? Despite her silver tongue, The witch wouldn’t call herself honorable or courageous. Would she fit as a wise Ravenclaw? Odette wasn’t the most studious in her muggle school. She often devotes more time to working in her dad’s shop or running her side hustle than focusing on muggle school work. Maybe a cunning Slytherin describes her well? Although self-sufficient, the witch isn’t afraid to ask for help, and her mom made sure to raise the Leone children to be rather humble lest pride blinds them.

Odette debated with herself so fervently in her head, that she hadn’t realized she moved to sit atop the stool until the sorting hat was plonked on her head.

“Another Leone, I see. Where to place you?” A voice whispered in her ears. “Hmm, you have a kind heart, strong work ethic, and stalwart loyalty to those you care for. Hufflepuff would do you well in forming unshakeable bonds.”

Odette’s pale blue eyes widened in surprise. She wasn’t opposed to becoming a badger but also assumed it would be the least likely house she’d be placed in. It didn’t suit her at all!

“I quite agree.” The hat echoed, making the witch nearly fall off the stool in shock. Was it reading her mind? Fascinating! “Teamwork isn’t prioritized despite valuing community, and you don’t always play fair to achieve your goals. Gryffindor could be a better fit with your charisma, spontaneity, and your daring to push boundaries.

“No, no, that house would ill prepare you for your dreams. Ravenclaw is much more suited to helping you on your journey! What better place for an inventor’s heart than the house fascinated by innovation and driven by intellectual ambition.”

At those words, Odette was ready to join the Eagles at their table, but the hat was quiet. Shifting uncomfortably in her seat, the first-year tried not to let the whispers resounding in the hall bother her as the hat took its time. What else was there to consider? Her father was a Ravenclaw, and she was just like him!

“That may be, but you are not Silas Leone. You, Odette Leone, have ambition, resourcefulness, and cunning in spades that your father did not. A house like Slytherin could prove to make your dreams into a resounding success if you're placed in its environment. Yes, yes, you could become great in Slytherin…

“But, you do not seek greatness. Your ambition stems from a passion to learn, experiment, and innovate! The pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and individuality far outweighs your desire for calculated success in your future business. Yes, yes, the house that will support your journey better be…RAVENCLAW!!”

Odette let out a sigh as she hopped off the stool and handed the hat back to the Headmaster. Don’t make a mistake, she was rather excited to be sorted into Ravenclaw. There was certainly no better house to help her understand, improve, and create new charms, talismans, and amulets for the shop, but the first-year couldn’t help thinking how dreadfully predictable her sorting was. It would have been amusing to hear her family’s reaction if she had been sorted in Slytherin.

Oh well, Odette will just have to create her own bit of capricious fun in Ravenclaw. Wouldn’t want her family to think she’s grown monotonous, or Merlin forbid, normal.

As the headmaster finished his speech, the line felt so long as she scrambled to get to her proper place. The previous first year was sorted into Ravenclaw and excitement mixed with nervousness spiralled through her veins. She had been gawking at the sight in front of her since her ride from Hogwarts Express and the imagery that she had fantasized since the stories from her parents all fell short compared to the majesty before her.

"Cravensworth, Eira Reyne!"

As her name was called, the small brunette took a deep breath and walked towards a stool with the sentient with poise and confidence her etiquette tutor would gush about. But in her mind, thoughts about the houses and the merits of each student determining where they will be placed had made her hyper aware of every stare and muttered words.

As she faced to the crowd and hopped on the chair, the four colours of red, yellow, blue and green swam in her vision until it was covered in black as the hat was placed on her head.

'Well now here is a treat' a voice entered her head, making her flinch. 'You are a mixed bag, aren't you? Curious and a good head on your shoulder. Want to be well-liked but you only show shallow charm to most. You welcome everyone yet unyielding on your beliefs. Where shall I put such a polarizing witch?'

Ah, the hat knows then. She shivered, it will know that she has secrets, secrets that she's not ready to share with anyone. Eira thought of her dad who was loyal and steadfast, the hardest working person she knew. He was a reflection of a true Hufflepuff.

Her mum who, despite coming from a family with conflicting worldview, had invested her time learning more about different cultures and shared her love of learning and wit to her only child. A Ravenclaw that showed the positive traits of the house.

Then... what is she?

She's just an eleven year old who spent most of her time following her mum to parties, studying under the strict supervision of her tutors, accompanying Mitzy as the nanny house elf charmed the kitchen utensils to make meals. And on quiet days, she will spirit away to the gardens to have secret conversations with a special friend.

Who is Eira Cravesworth?

'Then have this as a starting point, child' the hat crooned. 'You are someone who is suited to be in... Slytherin!'

A gasped exited her mouth as the hat shouted its decision. Loud claps and cheers erupted from the green and silver crowd and as she blinked, adjusting her eyes to the sudden brightness, Eira couldn't help but give a little laugh as she slid down from the stool and walked swiftly to her new housemates.

The first thing Sadie was learning about wizardkind was that they didn't stare as much at her for her clothes. Even in Diagon Alley, when she'd been wearing a ragged old jumper and trousers which sorely needed an adjustment, the folk around her had been dressed so peculiarly that none had spared her a glance.

It didn't help with her self-consciousness as she stood there in her Hogwarts uniform. It was, after all, the first truly well-fitted outfit she had worn since she was a baby. She tugged uncomfortably on the black robe as the first years entered the grand Great Hall, and she shrank back at the sickly armored man she would later know as the headmaster. Would she need armor one day? Lord above, she hoped not. That would just be another expense her parents couldn't spare.

The eyes of the older students were on the first years, so Sadie found a taller boy and slid behind him, sparing herself as much of the attention as possible. She was looking at the magical ceiling, which appeared as if there was no ceiling, when the Headmaster's voice boomed unnaturally through the Great Hall, explaining what he referred to as the 'Sorting Ceremony,' using a lot of made-up sounding words.

Despite the song sang by the hat, which was quite entertaining, it wasn't until the first student, then the next, then the next took the plunge that Sadie truly understood the significance of the 'Sorting.' She still hardly understood the difference between the houses, but she figured there would be time for that later.

"Murdock, Sadie."

At last, her own name was called, and she tried to walk quickly, to get this over with. The hat felt big on her head, which was a comfort after spending hours in these tailored clothes. She tried not to think about the hundreds or even thousands of other heads who'd been in this hat over the years. It didn't feel sanitary.

"...what do I do now?" she asked in a mumble when the hat didn't declare a house instantly.

What to do, indeed, the hat's voice spoke. Was it in her head, or could the other students hear? That seemed awfully personal if they could. A clever girl like you surely belongs in Ravenclaw.

Good. It's settled, then, Sadie thought with a relieved smile on her face. She could get off this stool, and out of the eyes of her peers.

Don't be so sure. You hide it well, but you would do well in other houses, as well. Perhaps Slytherin, or Gryffindor... You show loyalty to your family, but there is some cunning and daring hidden away in here.

"I think you've the wrong girl for daring or cunning," Sadie argued in a whisper. Her cheeks were beginning to flush. She hated the humiliation of being in front of the other students like this, and she hated how long this was taking. "But, if you don't mind, could you hurry it along? I want to be done with it."

Her voice was a desperate plea that she hoped only the hat could hear. If she didn't know better, she would swear the hat was laughing at her desperation.

Very well. A bold request on your part. Best be Gryffindor!

Sadie hurried off the stool the moment the hat was pulled from her head, tripping over her own feet as she hurried along toward the table with the most red. She was just relieved to shrink into the crowd.

01/09/2024, Great Hall
Word Count: 503

Once the Great Hall doors creaked open, the crowd of first-years fell into an almost religious silence as they stepped inside. Kiara Hawthorne, who was somewhere near the middle of the group, felt her breath catch in her throat.
It felt like a dream.The ceiling of the hall, far above them, perfectly mirrored the night sky outside; a deep velvet blue scattered with stars and a sliver of moonlight.
Hundreds upon hundreds of floating candles, gave a warm golden glow to the space, with their flames dancing softly midair. Four long tables spanned across the stone floor, each full of students in black robes, with faces showing that some were curious, some excited, others bored of dealing with this all before.
The professors' table sat at the distant side of the hall below an enormous hourglass window, where the teachers waited for silence to settle. Kiara’s eyes widened and she took it all in—the enchanted ceiling, the floating candelabras, the far-away shimmering of silverware and goblets polished to a shine. It felt grander than anything she had put in her own book and much more vivid than her parents had ever described to her.
Kiara froze among the cluster of wide-eyed first-years, hands clasped firmly in front of her robes.
Ghostly forms drifted somewhere above, and candles suspended in mid-air quivered softly—but Kiara barely registered, too anxious.

Her heart pounded. She tried to focus on her breathing, as her mother had taught her. Steady hands, steady mind.
'What if I don't end up in Slytherin? I need to be sorted there. Almost all of my family did.' She thought nervously.

The Sorting Hat yawned immensely as another student came down, their destination being proclaimed with authority. Then the moment arrived.

"Hawthorne, Kiara!"

The voice shouted down the corridor, sharp and distinct. Kiara's feet moved of their own will as she stepped forward, back straight, chin held high enough to conceal the quiver within, her heart thundering in her throat.

She sat, and the Sorting Hat was placed upon her head, covering her eyes ever so slightly.

“Ahh, you're interesting one,” the voice echoed in her mind. “Plenty of wit… yes, very sharp indeed." The Hat paused, examining further "Explosive, fiery like a Gryffindor... You’ve got strength, courage... but also ambition buried deep—more than you admit, even to yourself.”

Kiara's hold on the stool's edge tightened and she wiped her slightly sweaty hands on her robe.

"You're not fearful of being alone. Not fearful of expectations. Oh yes… there's something within you that could go places. Better be..."

"SLYTHERIN!"

The voice resonated down the corridor, and Kiara halted for half a moment and right after, a deep sigh of relief rose from her lungs. Then she stepped down from the stool and walked toward the Slytherin table, a wide, proud smile on her face, green and silver pennants gleaming. The students clapped loudly, others regarded her with curiosity. She sat down in a vacant chair, back still erect, head still held aloft— triumphant.

She'd read about it in Hogwarts, A History and had even asked the Professor who'd escorted her around Diagon Alley about it. But she was still confused on how it all worked. She supposed she would be finding out shortly, now that they were standing in the Great Hall, surrounded by returning students and staff alike. Anna could feel the telltale signs of anxiety building up inside as she fiddled nervously with her robes. She resisted the urge to chew her nails, instead focusing ahead, where an old pointed brown hat was dangling from a Professors hand.

The Sorting Hat, her mind echoed, recalling the name of it from the book she'd read. Still, knowing the name didn't do much for helping her know what it actually did. Hogwarts, A History didn't (it seemed) see fit to explain the details of how this ceremony would go, so Anna, like many students she supposed, were left adrift on what would happen next.

She listened on as Headmaster Solomon Lear spoke, taking in his appearance with curiosity. From his voice alone, she'd say he sounded kind, approachable for the most part. Still, she found herself tuning out for a moment, until she caught the word sentient in relation to the hat. Her brows furrowed.

A hat, sentient?

She jumped when the hat apparently spoke, her heart racing in both shock and wonder. She supposed it was a little funny for this of all things to surprise her, yet it had. It talked, it sang, and apparently it would be deciding where she would be staying these next seven years.

As the ceremony officially was underway, she looked on as student after student sat down upon the stool, the sorting hat placed over their head. Some students were sorted immediately, others took a while. The closer it got to her name, the more nervous she became. Her heart was racing and she clenched her robes in her fists...

"LINCOLN, ANNA!"

Chewing her lip, she tried to look ahead at the hat before her, ignoring everyone behind her, even the professors before her. If she focused just on the hat, she could pretend it was just it and her. She sat on the stool, gripping it and closed her eyes to the world. Though she hardly needed to. The hat was so large it obscured her vision anyhow.

"Ah, nervous are we?" The hat echoed in her mind, and she jumped a little, closing her eyes tighter. Anxiety thummed through her chest.

"I see nerves, dear one, but I also see beyond them. A gentle heart, a curious mind, though not for ambition or glory. A steadfast loyalty in you, yes...and a dedication to those you care for..."

A beat, and then-

"HUFFLEPUFF!"

Her eyes shot open to the stream of steady applause that came from the Hufflepuff table. And despite her great nerves as she slid from the stool and made her way to her destination, she couldn't help the small smile forming on her lips, and the lingering relief that the spotlight was now off of her.

She took her seat, and proceeded to watch the remainder of the sorting.