The Fear of Something New Closed

Hope stared up at the massive steam engine looming in front of her. With her mother's hand on her back, she took a deep breath. I can do this, she thought to herself. Putting her hand over her mom's, she turned with a soft smile.

Well mum, I guess this is it. I love you so, so much. Tell pa I'll miss him and the animals on the farm.

Her mother, unable to speak without letting out a sob, simple nodded and hugged her daughter tightly. With that final hug, Hope turned and stepped onto the train. She was instantly hit with the scent of various foods and drinks that she'd probably never heard of before. Her mouth watering, she had to shake her head to clear it. She needed to focus. Hauling her luggage behind her, she started walking down the corridor to search for a place to sit. Since she'd arrived at the station an hour early, it wasn't long before she found a compartment that was completely empty. She quickly hauled her bags in and placed them on the shelf above her chosen seat, then sat down herself.

Well, I guess this is it. I'm a witch, and I'm going to Hogwarts.

The thought was still terrifying. Hope had grown up in a muggle household. Magic had always been in folklore and fairytales, never in real life. So when she got the letter from Hogwarts, her world was turned upside-down.

What on earth has life got in store for me?, she thought out loud. Then she stared out the window as the train finally lurched forward. Her journey had only just begun.