1991 The golden light of the Hogwarts Express filtered through the compartment window, casting a warm glow on the faces of the eager students. The air was filled with an excited buzz, with new friendships already forming and old ones rekindling. As the train chugged its way through the verdant countryside, you felt a mix of nerves and anticipation. Today was the day you would finally see Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the legendary castle that had been the subject of countless stories and dreams.
The train came to a slow halt at Hogsmeade Station, and the students began to pour out, gathering in groups under the watchful eye of the giant, friendly figure of Hagrid. "Firs' years! Firs' years over here!" he called, his voice booming across the platform. You followed the crowd of first years towards Hagrid, who led you to a fleet of small boats that awaited you by the edge of the Black Lake.
As you stepped into the boat, the cool air carried the scent of pine and the promise of magic. The boats glided silently across the dark, glassy water, giving you the first glimpse of Hogwarts, illuminated against the twilight sky. The sight of the towering turrets and sprawling battlements took your breath away. The castle was even more magnificent than you had imagined.
The boats docked beneath a curtain of ivy that draped over the entrance to an underground harbour. Hagrid led the way up a stone staircase, and soon you found yourself standing before the massive oak front doors of Hogwarts. The doors creaked open, revealing a grand entrance hall lit by torches and filled with the murmurs of older students who had already arrived.
Professor McGonagall, stern yet kind, stood waiting for you. "Welcome to Hogwarts," she said, her voice clear and authoritative. "The start-of-term banquet will begin shortly, but before you can join your classmates, you must be sorted into your houses. The Sorting is a very important ceremony because, while you are here, your house will be like your family. Now, follow me."