The First Ride: Part 1

Mind the gaps. As this was originally posted on an online Harry Potter RPG forum, the story from other characters’ perspectives (other muns) are not included.

No “We’ll miss you!”; no “I love you!”; not even a simple “Good luck!” for her as she passes the threshold into the Wizarding World. No pink-faced parents flushed with the excitement of their child’s first year at Hogwarts hastily trailing behind. There is none of that for Valeria Géroux, because her parents are just much too busy to see their daughter off. Instead, they left her a letter before leaving the house: “Remember, Valeria, top of the class. No exceptions.”

Lugging her brand new Hogwarts trunk - initialed V.G. - with one hand and clutching an owl cage in the other, the 11-year-old witch marvels at the sight of what is the Hogwarts Express. Even the many books she had consumed could not illustrate its splendour.

Hooting owls, parents weeping, children chattering - Platform 9 ¾ just seems so… lively! Distinctively different from what Valeria was used to at home. Pushing through the crowds, eager to board the Hogwarts Express, her cerulean eyes scan the scene for her brother. No sign of him; not alone, at least. Alain Géroux is standing a few metres away, a flock of giggling girls forming a wreath around him. Typical.

Valeria glances at the clock standing in front of her: 10:55 - five minutes until the Hogwarts Express departs. Climbing up the stairs of the nearest train carriage, she shuffles her way to an empty compartment. Hoisting her trunk on top of the seats, Valeria makes herself comfortable near the window and pulls out a book as she continues to read about her new school. Curling up with a book, alone - just as she likes it.