Making Friends Completed

“We have got to be almost there right? It’s getting so dark”, Aston commented as the two of them continued their conversation. It was true - the green of the surrounding foliage had been seeped away, and the outside view was left in a greying dusk.

Jess and Aston spoke at length, all the while preoccupied by the growing darkness outside the window - surely, any moment, I’ll see Hogwarts, in all its glory?
As if by magic, light suddenly dotted the bleak canvas. There, now uncovered by the thick trees, standing tall and impressive, though still far in the distance, was Hogwarts. Jess couldn’t help but gasp with “Ah, so we're here - I guess I was too impatient", Aston said with a chuckle. Jess could barely take her eyes off the awe-inspiring sight. However, as the sounds of restless movement from eager students carried all through the train, Jess realised it was time to pack up and go.

She gathered the litter from her sweet treats - a crushed cauldron cake box, and an empty cup, that had once contained Pumpkin Juice. There were still a few Jelly Slugs left in their packet, and Jess noted with regret that these would probably be her last shop sweets for a while, so she decided to cherish them, packing them neatly into a side pocket of her satchel. She clicked her trunk shut, and made sure that she had the rest of her loose items, taking an extra moment to relocate her wand. Funny to think that, once I’ve learnt a few spells, this wand will never leave my sight. She knew it was true - she couldn’t describe the panic expressed by her dad when he misplaced his wand.

After a moment, Jess smiled, at peace. The train was slowing down, noticeably, and the hustle and bustle of her fellow students grew louder with every second. With a quick nod to Aston, Jess decided to take the lead. Leaving her trunk behind, she walked back down the corridor through which Bobbie had first led them, all the way to the door. Jess wondered again where Bobbie had got to, but was fairly sure that they’d reunite soon - after all, it’s the Sorting Ceremony later - I’m bound to see absolutely everyone!

The train made its final few pushes into the station, and Jess took in a sight of quaint beauty. ‘Hogsmeade Station’, the red-lettered sign said. She opened the carriage door and stepped down. Despite her heritage, this was her first time in Scotland - in a strange way, Jess’ heart was filled with warmth, as if she was arriving home.