Around half-past twelve, the trolley witch came by, her cart brimming with a colorful assortment of snacks and drinks. "Anything from the trolley, dears?" she asked, peering into the compartment where Harry and Ronnie sat.

Ronnie shook her head, a slight blush creeping into her cheeks. "No, thank you," she said quietly, glancing away. She had no money to spend, and admitting it embarrassed her.

But to her surprise, Harry jumped up eagerly, reaching into his pocket. "I'll take some of everything," he said, handing over a few coins. The witch smiled warmly as she handed him various treats, from Chocolate Frogs to Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.

Ronnie's eyes widened as Harry set the snacks between them. "You didn't have to do that, Harry," she said, touched by his generosity.

Harry grinned at her. "I wanted to. We can share them."

They were starting to enjoy their feast when the door to their compartment slid open, and a nervous-looking boy with a round face peered in. "Excuse me," he stammered, "My name is Neville Longbottom. Have you seen a toad? His name is Trevor."

Ronnie and Harry both looked up, startled by the interruption. But before they could respond, another figure appeared behind the boy. A young witch looked at them with bushy brown hair and a determined expression. "I'm Hermione Granger. I'm helping Neville find his toad. Have you seen it?"

Ronnie shook her head. "Sorry, we haven't seen any toads."

Neville's face fell, but he quickly thanked them before he and Hermione moved on, continuing their search.

Ronnie and Harry exchanged a glance, then resumed their conversation, laughing and chatting excitedly about what their first year at Hogwarts might hold. The excitement and warmth between them were noticeable, and they were beginning to feel a strong bond of friendship forming.

But their moment of joy was short-lived. The compartment door slid open again, and three young wizards stepped in, led by a pale boy with white-blonde hair and cold silver eyes. Ronnie's stomach tightened as she immediately recognized Draco Malfoy. His two companions, Crabbe and Goyle, stood like silent shadows behind him, their presence looming.

Draco looked at Ronnie and Harry with a sneer, his gaze lingering on Ronnie's red hair, freckles, and tattered clothing. "Weasley," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "I didn't realize you had company." His eyes shifted to Harry, narrowing in suspicion. "You must be another Weasley," he said, eyeing Harry's unruly red hair and tattered clothing.

Harry remained silent, uneasy, while Ronnie's hand tightened on her wand. She whispered to Harry, "Be careful. That's Draco Malfoy. His family's not to be trusted."

Draco seemed to sense something was off and continued, "I'm looking for someone. A boy named Harry Potter. Have either of you seen him? He should have dark hair, a lightning-bolt scar on his forehead, and regal attire."

Ronnie and Harry exchanged a quick, knowing glance. They didn't want to get involved with Draco or reveal Harry's true identity. "No, we haven't seen anyone like that," Ronnie said, her voice steady.

Draco's eyes narrowed further, clearly suspicious. "Really?" he said slowly, his tone laced with doubt. He glanced between the two of them before finally turning on his heel. "Let's go," he ordered Crabbe and Goyle, who followed him out of the compartment.

As the door slid shut, Ronnie let out a sigh of relief and quickly locked it, ensuring they wouldn't be disturbed again. "That was close," she muttered.

Harry turned to her, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Why was he looking for me? And why does everyone think I have dark hair when I've always had red?"

Ronnie shrugged, though her expression was thoughtful. "I guess not many people know what you look like. You were just a baby when you defeated You-Know-Who, and no one's seen you since then. But you should be careful around Draco. My dad told me stories about his family, especially his father, Lucius Malfoy. He was a Death Eater, one of You-Know-Who's loyal followers."

Harry's eyes widened as he listened. "Death Eaters... they're the ones who—"

"Who helped Voldemort," Ronnie finished for him, her voice stern. "They're dangerous, Harry. And I think Draco's trying to get close to you, maybe to manipulate you. He could be trying to control you because you're so young, and who knows what they might try to do with you... maybe even try to bring You-Know-Who back."

Harry felt a shiver run down his spine. The idea that someone might want to use him in such a way was terrifying. "But why would they want me?" he asked, his voice small.

"Because you're the Boy Who Lived, the Wizarding World's Savior," Ronnie said softly. "You're famous in our world, Harry. And people like the Malfoys would do anything to get power. They might think having you on their side would help them get what they want."

Ronnie's concern was genuine, making Harry more aware of the dangerous world he was stepping into. But it also made him feel grateful to have Ronnie by his side, someone who seemed to care about him honestly and wanted to protect him.

"Thanks, Ronnie," Harry said quietly. "For looking out for me."

Ronnie smiled at him, her blue eyes warm. "We're friends now, Harry. And friends stick together."

As the Hogwarts Express neared its destination, the conductor's voice echoed through the compartments, reminding the students to wear their school uniforms. Ronnie grabbed her female uniform and turned to Harry with a smile. "I'll give you some privacy," she said, gathering her things before heading out.

Ronnie went to the restroom, where she bumped into Hermione Granger, who was also carrying her uniform. The two witches exchanged friendly smiles, and Ronnie decided to change alongside Hermione. As they dressed, they began to chat, getting to know each other better.

"So, are your parents wizards?" Ronnie asked, pulling on her robes.

Hermione shook her head, a proud smile on her face. "No, they're Muggles—dentists. I'm the first witch in my family. It's all so fascinating. I've read every book I could find about Hogwarts, and I can't wait to start learning everything!"

Ronnie smiled, feeling a wave of fondness for the eager young witch. Hermione's enthusiasm reminded her so much of her older brother, Percy, who was always excited about his studies and deeply loved books. "You know, you remind me a lot of my brother Percy. He's just as excited about learning as you are. I bet you two would get along great."

Hermione beamed at the compliment. "I'd love to meet him! Maybe we'll all end up in the same house."

Once they were dressed, Ronnie, with Hermione walking beside her, returned to the compartment, where they found Harry already in his uniform. He looked a bit nervous but smiled when he saw them. "You two look great," he said, trying to be polite.

"Thanks, Harry," Ronnie replied, noticing that Scabbers was tucked away in Harry's pant pocket. She said nothing about it, figuring that Harry had unknowingly claimed the rat as his pet. It didn't bother her; if Scabbers comforted Harry, she was all for it.

The trio sat back down and chatted excitedly about what awaited them at Hogwarts. As the train finally pulled into Hogsmeade Station, the excitement was noticeable. The conductor instructed the older students to disembark first while the first years waited.

Once the train was clear of the older students, it was time for the first years to step out onto the platform. Harry, Ronnie, and Hermione joined the crowd, their breath visible in the cool evening air. Then, Harry spotted a familiar giant figure—Rubeus Hagrid, who had first introduced him to the Wizarding world.

"There's Hagrid!" Harry exclaimed, waving enthusiastically. "Come on, I'll introduce you!"

Ronnie and Hermione followed Harry as he led them over to the half-giant. "Hagrid, these are my new friends, Ronnie Weasley and Hermione Granger!" Harry said excitedly.

Hagrid smiled down at them, his beetle-black eyes twinkling. "Nice ter meet yeh both! Glad ter see Harry's makin' friends already."

Ronnie felt a warmth spread through her at Hagrid's kind words. She could tell that Hagrid genuinely cared for Harry, making her even more determined to look out for him.

Once all the first years were gathered, Hagrid led them down a steep, narrow path that eventually opened to the edge of a vast, dark lake. "No more'n four to a boat!" Hagrid called out as the students climbed into the small boats waiting for them.

Ronnie, Hermione, and Harry found a boat and were joined by Neville Longbottom, who looked pale and nervous but relieved to have seen familiar faces. The boat set off across the glassy surface of the lake, and as they rounded a bend, the sight of Hogwarts Castle came into view.

The four of them gasped in unison, staring in awe at the majestic castle with its many turrets and towers glowing warmly against the twilight sky. It was more incredible than any of them had imagined, and for a moment, they were all struck silent by its sheer beauty.

The boats docked smoothly as they reached the underground harbor, and the students began to disembark. "Don't forget your toad, Neville," Hermione reminded him as they stepped onto solid ground.

Neville quickly scooped up Trevor, looking grateful for the reminder. Hagrid then led the group up a dark passageway, and soon, they found themselves standing before the grand gates of Hogwarts Castle.

Ronnie couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and excitement as she stared at the towering gates. This was it—the beginning of a new chapter in her life. She glanced over at Harry, Hermione, and Neville, who seemed to feel the same way, and gave them a reassuring smile.

"We're here," she whispered, her voice filled with wonder. "We're finally here."

As the new students approached the castle doors, they were greeted by Professor Minerva McGonagall's stern yet welcoming presence. She explained the four houses of Hogwarts—Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin—and the significance of the House Cup. The first-year students listened attentively, absorbing every word with excitement and nervousness. After her brief introduction, Professor McGonagall led them into a small room off the Entrance Hall, instructing them to wait until she returned.

Inside the small room, the first years clustered together, chatting nervously. Growing increasingly anxious, Hermione voiced her concerns to her new friends. "I've read so much about how some Purebloods treat Muggleborns," she whispered, her voice tinged with fear. "What if they're horrible to me?"

Ronnie placed a reassuring hand on Hermione's shoulder. "Don't worry, Hermione. I won't let anyone mess with you. And Harry too—he grew up in the Muggle world just like you. We're in this together."

Hermione and Harry both smiled, grateful for Ronnie's kindness and support. Harry was incredibly relieved; he'd been worried about what life at Hogwarts would be like, but knowing he had friends like Ronnie made him feel braver.

Suddenly, a mischievous laugh echoed through the room, grabbing everyone's attention. The first-year students turned to see a poltergeist dressed like a jester floating above them, his wide grin filled with mischief. "Welcome, fresh meat!" he cackled. "The name's Peeves, the resident poltergeist here to make your lives a little bit more interesting!"

Ronnie's eyes widened in recognition. She remembered Fred and George's letters mentioning Peeves and how he respected them and often assisted them in their pranks.

Peeves started tossing buckets of water into the air, splashing several students who shrieked and ducked for cover as Peeves prepared to throw water at Ronnie, Harry, Hermione, and Neville. Ronnie stood her ground. "Peeves!" she called out, her voice firm. "If you throw that water at us, I'll make sure Fred and George know exactly what you've been up to!"

Peeves paused, the bucket hovering mid-air. He floated closer to Ronnie, squinting at her. "Fred and George's sister, are you?" he asked, his tone suddenly respectful.

Ronnie nodded, arms crossed. "That's right. And I'm sure you don't want to be on their bad side."

Peeves cackled again, but this time it was less menacing. "Oh, no, no, we can't have that! Fred and George are my favorite troublemakers." With a dramatic bow, Peeves floated away, leaving Ronnie and her friends untouched.

The students sighed in relief, and just as quickly as Peeves had appeared, Professor McGonagall returned, her eyes sharp as she noticed the water on the floor. "Peeves, I presume?" she asked dryly. The students nodded, but she shook her head, using a spell to dry all the students, and then motioned for them to follow her.

They were led into the Great Hall, where the older students were seated at four long tables. The ceiling above them was enchanted to look like the night sky, and hundreds of floating candles illuminated the room, casting a warm glow. A small stool stood at the front of the Hall, with a shabby wizard's hat perched on top.

Ronnie quickly spotted her older brothers at the Gryffindor table. Percy gave her a respectful nod while Fred and George smiled widely, flashing her reassuring thumbs up. She felt a surge of comfort and determination, knowing her family was there to support her.

The Great Hall fell silent as the Sorting Hat began to sing its song, describing the qualities of each House. Harry listened anxiously, unsure where he would fit in. None of the Houses seemed quite right for him, but when he glanced at Ronnie, he noticed how calm and determined she looked. Harry immediately decided to follow her—wherever she went, he wanted to be there too.

The Sorting Ceremony began, and Professor McGonagall started calling the students' names individually.

"Hannah Abbott!" called McGonagall.

A pink-faced girl stepped forward and sat on the stool. After a moment, the Hat shouted, "HUFFLEPUFF!" The Hufflepuff table erupted in cheers as Hannah joined them.

"Susan Bones!"

Susan walked up confidently, and the Hat had barely touched her head before it cried, "HUFFLEPUFF!" She grinned and joined Hannah at the Hufflepuff table.

After Susan, ten students were sorted into houses: Terry Boot, Mandy Brocklehurst, Michael Corner, and Anthony Goldstein in Ravenclaw; Lavender Brown and Seamus Finnigan in Gryffindor; Millicent Bulstrode, Vincent Crabbe, Gregory Goyle in Slytherin, and Justin Finch-Fletchley in Hufflepuff.

"Hermione Granger!"

Ronnie lightly pats Hermione's back and smiles at her. Harry and Neville politely nod their heads and smile at her. Hermione approaches the stool, feeling reassured. The Hat hastily touches her head before it cries, "Gryffindor!" Hermione sighed in relief and hurried to join the Gryffindor table, where she was greeted with cheers from Lavender and Seamus.

Ronnie, Harry, and Neville smiled, relieved Hermione had found a place within Gryffindor.

After Hermione, four students were sorted into Houses: Daphne in Slytherin, Wayne Hopkins and Megan Jones in Hufflepuff, and Sue Li in Ravenclaw.

"Neville Longbottom!"

Neville gulped, getting scared when he heard his name. Harry looks at Neville and smiles at him. "It's okay, Neville. Everything will be alright. Believe in yourself." Ronnie nodded in agreement. Neville nodded, nervously walking up to the stool, and sat down. After a moment's pause, the Hat shouted, "GRYFFINDOR!" Neville stumbled in relief as he joined Hermione at the Gryffindor table, where the cheering was thunderous.

Hermione hugged Neville tightly, relieved her friend was in the same house. Ronnie and Harry looked at one another and smiled, glad Neville and Hermione were in the same House.

After Neville, seven students were sorted into Houses: Ernie Macmillan in Hufflepuff, Padma Patil in Ravenclaw, Cormac McLaggen and Parvati Patil in Gryffindor; Draco Malfoy, Theodore Nott, and Pansy Parkinson in Slytherin.

"Harry Potter!"

A hush fell over the Great Hall as everyone looked at the remaining first-year students, trying to figure out which was Harry. Ronnie looked at Harry and nudged him when she saw he wasn't moving. Harry came to his senses and started to approach the stool.

Whispers spread like wildfire in the Great Hall as everyone saw Harry—he looked so much like the late Lily Potter with Lily's vivid red hair and striking green eyes. The only reminders he got from the late James Potter were his unruly hairstyle and poor vision since he wore glasses. Some were taken aback, especially Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Professor Severus Snape, who had been expecting a miniature James Potter.

The Hat was placed on Harry's head, and after a few moments of reflection, it shouted, "GRYFFINDOR!"

The Great Hall was silent momentarily as if everyone was too shocked to react since Harry's physical appearance dumbfounded them. Ronnie noticed this and immediately began cheering loudly for Harry. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and the entire Gryffindor table soon joined in, clapping and shouting for him. Harry, who had been nervous, smiled gratefully at Ronnie as he went and sat beside Hermione and Neville.

After Harry, Dean Thomas got sorted into Gryffindor and Lisa Turpin in Ravenclaw.

"Veronica Weasley!"

Ronnie looked at her surroundings. She saw Draco giving her a dirty look from the Slytherin table. She figured he was annoyed that she lied to him about Harry being in the same compartment as her back in the Hogwarts Express.

She smirked confidently, internally claiming she had beaten Draco in his game, which caused Draco to look more annoyed. She turned and saw her older brothers and friends smile at her reassuringly.

She determinedly approached the stool, her thoughts a mixture of excitement and nerves. The Hat was placed on her head, and after a brief pause, it declared, "GRYFFINDOR!" Ronnie smiled widely as she joined her brothers and new friends at the Gryffindor table.

"Yay! We are in the same House!" Harry and Hermione cheered as they hugged Ronnie. Neville smiled, relieved as well.

"We knew you were going to get sorted into Gryffindor!" Fred grinned while George nodded in agreement.

Percy looked at Ronnie and smiled, proud of his younger sister.

After Ronnie, Blaise Zabini was the final student to get sorted, and after a moment, the Hat sent him to "SLYTHERIN!"

With the Sorting Ceremony complete, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore rose to his feet, his eyes twinkling behind his half-moon spectacles. "Welcome, all, to another year at Hogwarts!" he announced, his voice warm and cheerful. "Before we begin our feast, I would like to say a few words: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!"

The students burst into laughter, and the tension in the room dissipated. Plates of delicious food appeared on the tables, and the students eagerly began to dig in, enjoying their first meal at Hogwarts.