Chapter 1: Chapter 1: Welcome To Ilvermorny

“Winter, are you awake? I want to get to the station early so that we can take a picture together!” 

 

“I’m awake,” Came the muffled response from behind the closed door. Standing before the mirror, Winter couldn’t help but smile proudly as she stared at the blue and cranberry-colored robes she had on. The uniform for the school she was going to attend for the next seven years, Ilvermorny Academy. The official American school for witchcraft and wizardry, located on Mount Greylock, Massachusetts. 

 

Making her way down the stairs, she found her parents already in the dining room. Her father, David, a no-maj and owner of a small bakery. Her mother, Lucy, is a witch and co-owner of the bakery. In the past she worked at MACUSA, otherwise known as the Magical Congress of the United States of America. She never mentioned her work much at home, so Winter was left with little knowledge about the organization.

 

“Honey, did you do the last check with the list I wrote down for you?” Lucy asked while plates full of food began to float towards the table. Winter took a seat at the table beside her father, giving a happy nod in response to her question. 

 

“Yup! I checked yesterday night and twice this morning, I have everything I need.” Winter had done several more checks, though she didn’t feel like it was necessary to say it. Lucy joined them at the table before the three of them began eating. While the food tasted good as always, Winter found herself unable to enjoy it as much as usual, knowing she wouldn’t be eating with her family for some time. 

 

“Don’t worry about it Winter, I’m sure you’ll have a great time there. After all, your mother went there and she’s the greatest witch I know.” David had a gentle smile on his face as he gently ruffled Winter’s hair.

 

“After all these years, yet your silver tongue hasn’t gone anywhere,” Lucy responded, letting out an embarrassed chuckle. Wanting to keep what was left of her appetite, Winter directed her attention towards the television, right in time for the news to come on. As the newscasters talked about the upcoming weather, Winter watched as the letters on the headlines began to rearrange themselves until a new title had formed. 

 

‘Activists begin protests, calling for the reinforcement of Rappaport's Law.’

 

Before she could even muster a question, Lucy snapped her fingers, causing the screen to shift to a random cartoon. Knowing the status of her father, Winter seemed to understand why this wasn’t something they wanted to see at the moment. No-maj was a term applied to those who had no magical affinity whatsoever. Rappaport’s law established that wizards and witches couldn’t enter any sort of relationship with a no-maj; if they were ever caught, there would be harsh consequences.

 

The law was repealed in the 1960’s, though recently Winter had begun seeing more and more news headlines calling for the reinforcement of the law. While those causing the disruption were no more than a few people at a time, it was still disturbing to see. 

 

“Well then, let’s finish breakfast. We don’t want to be late for the train,” David suggested, offering a warm smile. Upon finishing their food, the family prepared themselves before apparating out of their house, 

 

The Grand Central Station was swarming with people, as usual, all of them rushing to get where they needed to be as fast as possible. Glancing at the clock, it read ten minutes before noon; they still had some time to get to the platform. The three of them navigated their way through the crowd, though it eventually began to thin out. Winter glanced up at the signs for the terminals as they passed by. Platform 43. Platform 44. And as if it materialized out of thin air, Winter watched as a new sign appeared before the family. Platform 45. Beside the sign resided a new entrance to a platform that previously wasn’t there. The crowds of no-maj’s were replaced with wizards, witches, and students who were dressed in the same uniform as Winter. 

 

“Looks like we’re here,” David stated, the three of them stepping down into the terminal that has since expanded considerably. Winter was entranced, looking around as she wheeled her luggage towards the train, her parents trailing behind her. 

 

“The train for Ilvermorny Village will be departing in five minutes. I repeat, the train for Ilvermorny Village will be departing in five minutes.” Coming to a stop before turning around, Winter turned around and embraced her parents one more time. After goodbyes were exchanged, Winter boarded the train with her luggage, finding the interior to be much larger than it appeared on the outside. Locating an empty compartment, she set her luggage inside before sitting down, listening to the conductor state the train was beginning to leave. 

 

Spotting her parents once again as the train began to move, they waved at each other before the train plummeted down the tunnel, leaving her to stare at her own reflection. Even though this was something she had been waiting for and was an opportunity she was ecstatic to take, she couldn’t help the tears that began to form in her eyes. While she was able to hold them back in front of her parents, they began to fall freely with no one else around her. 

 

“Excuse me, may I sit here?” Winter quickly rubbed her eyes with the sleeve of her robe before looking up, finding a girl around her age standing by the doorway. Pale skin, striking blue eyes, and blonde hair that seemed like it’d reflect any light shone on it. She almost had the appearance of an angel. 

 

“O-Of course!” Seeing as she was the only one sitting in her compartment, she wouldn’t mind the company. The other girl gave Winter a thankful smile, setting aside her luggage before taking a seat across from her. 

 

“I’m Eris Hallow, pleased to meet you.” As Eris outstretched her hand, Winter reached out and shook it gently. 

 

“Winter Evergreen, nice to meet you as well.” Winter continued to observe the other girl, who was busy staring out the window as the train continued to move along the tracks. Following her gaze, Winter watched as the once pitch-black tunnel system began to transform into what appeared to be an underground magic world. The confined walls expanded into a much more open area, where she could see people walking below, shops lining the walls. 

 

“That’s an underground marketplace, it’s where you can find just about anything related to magic. There are quite a few scattered around the city, as long as you know where to look. However, I suggest not going alone, as you may always end up running into the wrong group of people.” Winter nodded as she listened to Eris’ explanation; while she had never been to one herself, it was clear that Eris had a few experiences there. 

 

“Good afternoon, would either of you ladies be interested in snacks or refreshments?” An elderly lady appeared at the doorway of the train, wheeling a cart with various foods, drinks, and candies lining its trays. While Winter had been given some money by her parents, she wasn’t planning on spending any unless she needed to. That was until her eyes settled on the familiar orange pastry that she was quite fond of. 

 

“I’ll have one pumpkin pasty, please.” After handing over a few coins, she received the wrapped pasty, warm to the touch. Unable to help the smile as she took a bite, she welcomed the sweetness and spice, finding it to taste even better than the ones she would occasionally get when out shopping. 

 

“As for you, miss?”

 

“I’ll have the same as well, please.” Glancing over at Eris, Winter watched as the girl took delicate bites of the sweet. 

 

It wasn’t long before the train exited the underground tunnels, the dense city being replaced with open fields and lush forests. The stark change in scenery kept the two entranced as they slowly made their way towards their destination, a small village residing at the base of Mount Greylock. By the time they arrived at the small station, the sun had just about set. As the shuttle came to a slow stop, a voice began to speak, audible throughout the entire train.

 

“We have now arrived at Ilvermorny Village. Please gather your luggage and depart the train. I repeat, we have now arrived at Ilvermorny Village. Please gather your luggage and depart the train.” 

 

Getting up from her seat with her luggage beside her, Winter was barely out of the door before she felt someone run into her, sending them both tumbling to the ground. Opening her eyes, she found a boy who appeared to be around her age, his curly hair covered in what appeared to be glitter. However before she could even ask if he was alright, he was up and gone, running out of the train.

 

“Percius Reynards, you get back here right now!” Winter watched in awe as several older students ran in the same direction, coated in what appeared to be a similar substance. Well, whoever that person was seemed to be quite the troublemaker. 

 

“Are you alright?” Eris asked, Winter nodding in response as she was helped up. Once the commotion seemed to pass, the two followed the trail of students off of the train, where they were gathered in a crowd near the center of the village. The students were busy talking amongst themselves, though all conversation slowly fell silent as an older man slowly stepped out of the train, loudly clearing his throat. 

 

“Welcome, students, to Ilvermorny Village. This is the last stop before we reach Ilvermorny Academy. While you will be able to come here and indulge in what the village has to offer later in the year, I ask you to remain near the center so you will have no problem accessing a carriage. They shall arrive shortly and take you up to Ilvermorny where the entrance ceremony shall begin.” Just as the man finished speaking, Winter could hear the distant sound of hooves colliding against the ground. One by one, carriages began to head towards the village, circling the large center before coming to a slow stop. Gripping onto her luggage, she and Eris walked over to one of the vacant carriages. 

 

“Greetings Ms. Evergreen and Ms. Hallow, please allow me to take your luggage. You can make yourself comfortable inside while more students arrive.” The conductor had a kind look on his face as Winter let go of her possessions, watching as they floated up in the air before settling in the storage section of the carriage. After Eris had her luggage stored as well, the two settled down in the cabin, where Winter could hear footsteps quickly approaching them.

 

“Greetings Mr. Reynards, allow me to take your luggage.” Reynards; hearing the name prompted Winter to think back to the boy who had run into her back on the train. As if on cue, the boy appeared at the entrance of the cabin, shock appearing on his face as he locked eyes with Winter. It was clear he had recognized her as well. 

 

“Ah, hello there. Sorry about earlier, I had poked fun at some students who weren’t a fan of my antics. I’m Percy Reynards, by the way, hope we all get along.” As he offered a friendly smile, Winter decided it was best to ignore what had happened earlier. After all, she wouldn’t want someone to judge her based on their first interaction either. Once introductions were made, they engaged in polite conversation as the carriages made their way up the mountain. 

 

There wasn’t much to see along the way, mostly the dark treeline broken off by another trail branching out. However, it wasn’t long until the academy came into view. A grand castle resting atop a flat part of the mountain. Winter couldn’t help but admire the sight as the carriages came to a slow stop in front of the large staircase leading up to the school’s gates. Standing at the top resided several wizards and witches, which she presumed to be the teachers. 

 

“You may head up these stairs where the teachers will guide you to the Dining Hall. You won’t need to worry about your luggage, as it will be transported for you.” After helping the three students down, the conductor gave a slight bow before mounting his carriage and disappearing down the hill. The teachers then descended the stairs, gathering students into groups before leading them up towards the academy. Walking beside Eris and Percy, Winter observed what she could of the campus as they moved, her eyes settling on a large tree in the center of the courtyard. 

 

“That’s the Snakewood tree, grown from the wand of one of the founders. They mainly use the tree now for medicinal purposes to treat students, teachers, and anyone else who may need it.” 

 

“Wow, I didn’t know that. You must know a lot about the school already,” Winter commented, earning an embarrassed smile as Eris shook her head slightly. 

 

“Not really, I’ve only latched on to bits and pieces I heard from my parents. They’re both healer magicians so this was something they taught me.” 

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Passing through the front entrance of the academy, the castle-like interior reminded Winter of several fantasy movies she watched when she was younger. She immediately took note of the four large wooden statues that loomed over the students, making her feel as though she was being watched despite them not doing anything whatsoever. 

 

Eventually, the group of students entered a large and open hall, with four long tables stretching down. As older students took their seats with their respective houses, the first years were brought down to the front before being divided equally amongst the four tables. Teachers took their seats near the front before a man near the center stood up, clearing his throat. The chatter in the hall quickly fell silent, eyes looking up expectantly at the man before them. 

 

“Now that we are all settled, I’d like to properly welcome you all to Ilvermorny. Whether it is your first year or your last, we are happy and grateful to have you back as our students. For the first-year students, I am Agilbert Fontaine, the headmaster of Ilvermorny Academy. I am extremely fortunate to have a wonderful and talented teaching staff to assist me in ensuring you receive the quality education our school promises. Please allow me to introduce our staff for this year.” Following light applause, Fontaine began to read off the teachers’ names in order from where they sat at the table. 

 

Ackerly Collar, professor of Potions. 

 

Mathias Box, professor of Ancient Runes. 

 

Leander Shrew, professor of Xylomancy. 

 

Elliot Ammons, professor of Defense Against the Dark Arts. 

 

Linda Fourpetal, professor of Creature Care. 

 

Fae Colibri, professor of Transfiguration. 

 

Darre Kobrir: professor of Arithmancy. 

 

Lazuli Sokanon, professor of charms.

 

After the last professor was introduced, the teachers took their seats as the students gave a light applause. 

 

“With introductions out of the way, it is now time for the Welcome Feast, as I’m sure all of you are very hungry. Afterward, the first-year students will be selected by their Houses and Wands.” Raising his arms, Fontaine snapped his fingers which summoned freshly prepared food and drink along with all the tables. Suddenly realizing how hungry she was, Winter happily began to dig into the food, excited to try the different dishes that she never had before. The Dining Hall was filled with conversation and laughter as the students enjoyed their dinner together. However as more time began to pass, Fontaine stood up once more to deliver another announcement.

 

“I hope you all enjoyed the Welcome Feast. It will now be time for our first-year students to head to the Entrance Hall; you may follow Professor Box. As for the rest of the students, please follow your prefect to the upper platforms so that you may watch the ceremony.” 

 

“Students, you may follow me!” Professor Box called, the young man waving his arms slightly so that the students knew who to follow. 

 

“He looks rather young to be a professor, I might have confused him for a seventh year if he had a uniform on,” Percy stated, earning a few giggles from those around them. Soon the students found themselves back in the Entrance Hall, Professor Box stopping before the group, standing before what appeared to be some sort of carving on the floor. The four wooden statues loomed behind him, emitting an almost ominous aura.

 

“Students, if I may have your attention. We will now begin the sorting ceremony. As you can see here, there are four wooden statues, each belonging to one of the four houses here at Ilvermorny. Starting from the left is the Horned Serpent, representing the mind of the witch and wizard. The Wampus represents the body of the witch and wizard. The Thunderbird represents the soul of the witch and wizard. Finally, the Pukwudgie, representing the heart of the witch and wizard.” 

 

The wooden statues each depicted the creature of their house. The horned serpent was a carving depicting the reptile raised towards the sky, a peculiar gem embedded in its head. The Wampus depicted the cat-like creature perched on its resting place, seemingly preparing to roar. The Thunderbird depicted the flying beast in the air, its wings stirring the skies behind it. Finally the Pukwudgie, the human-like creature drawing back the string of its bow. 

 

“Once I call your name, you will come forth and step on the Gordian Knot on the floor. You will then be selected by a statue, which will be your assigned house for the rest of your years at Ilvermorny. Upon completing the Selection Ceremony, students will then be taken to the Great Hall where they will be selected by their wands.” 

 

“What house do you want to get chosen by?” Percy asked Winter and Eris. Winter didn’t quite have a preference, as she was happy enough to be able to attend the school. She was going to make use of whatever opportunity she had. Then again, she was beginning to hope to be in the same house as Percy and Eris, since she had grown to enjoy their company in the short time she knew them. 

 

“I’m hoping to get chosen by the Pukwudgie. My parents were in the same house, and I want to grow to be like them.” Eris had a sheepish smile on her face, while Percy seemed to be studying the various statues. 

 

“I think I want Thunderbird. The name sounds cool, doesn’t it?” Was that all he needed to decide on a house? While she couldn’t necessarily disagree with his statements, it was still enough to almost draw out an eye roll from the girl. 

 

“We will now begin the selection ceremony. When I read out your name, please come forth to the Gordian Knot. Carrie Fernin.” Winter watched as Carrie stepped out, hands folded together as she stopped right before the knot. For a moment, nothing seemed to happen. Then, the statue of the Horned Serpent let out a hiss, the crystal in its head beginning to glow. There was light applause from the first years as well as the students from above, while Carrie walked back over to the group. 

 

“Next up, we have Marietta Coyota.” The girl walked with an air of confidence around her, casually standing before the knot. Once again there was nothing before the Wampus statue suddenly let out a ferocious roar. 

 

“Figured,” Marietta commented, a sly smile on her face as she turned around and walked back.

 

“Irwin Crooke, please step up.” After the name was called, no one stepped out, causing some to look around in confusion. A timid boy then stepped out of the crowd, slowly making his way towards the knot. Seeing how nervous he was, Winter was starting to feel bad for him. The Pukwudgie statue slowly began to raise its bow, aiming its arrow towards the sky, choosing Irwin as its student. The boy hurried back to the crowd, clearly happy to be out of the spotlight. 

 

“Next up, Eris Hallow.” There seemed to be murmurs upon her name being mentioned, eyes turning to her. Glancing over to see Eris clasping and unclasping her hands nervously, Winter gave her a gentle nudge in the side. 

 

“You got this,” She whispered, offering a small smile. This seemed to instill some confidence within her, as Eris responded with a smile of her own before stepping forward. Winter could practically hear her silent pleas to be chosen by the house she desired. The silence seemed to last longer than expected, drawing out an uncomfortable tension from within the crowd. While Winter thought it would have been an instant decision from the statues considering Eris’ lineage, they seemed to have a different plan. 

 

A sudden clap of thunder echoed through the room, starling Winter as she looked back at the statues, watching as the Thunderbird began to flap its wings. The crowd remained quiet in somewhat shocked silence before the light applause followed. As Eris walked back to the group, Winter could see the paleness of her face. 

 

“Hey, are you-” 

 

“I’m okay,” Eris responded, too quick for Winter to even finish her question. The initial shock already seemed to be fading from her face as slowly released her hands. “The Thunderbird chose me for a reason, I’m going to accept it and work as hard as I can.” 

 

While Winter wasn’t sure if she was being truthful about how she felt, she didn’t press on further. As more students were called, she watched as they were selected by various houses, silently wondering when it was going to be her turn. 

 

“Winter Evergreen, you may step forward.” Perking up upon hearing her name, Winter quickly stepped forward, making her way to the knot. Coming to a stop before it, she let out a soft sigh before staring at the four statues, awaiting their decision. She wasn’t quite sure which house was going to be the best for her, yet her initial wish remained. To be in the same house as her closest friends. 

 

Staring at the four statues, her stomach seemed to drop slightly as the Pukwudgie began to raise its bow towards the sky. It was then that something else occurred, which she wasn’t expecting whatsoever. The hiss of the Horned Serpent and roar of the Wampus. The three statues seemed to try and stake their claim over one another, a clear yet silent argument. Yet, they were all silenced as the roar of thunder coursed through the hall yet again, the Thunderbird flapping its wings furiously. 

 

At this point, gasps and murmurs were spreading throughout the room, all the students understandably in shock. Even Winter knew that it wasn’t normal to be chosen by multiple houses, yet she had been selected by all four. Turning to the professor, her confused expression was met with his own, which he quickly washed away as he cleared his throat. 

 

“Please settle down, students! It appears we have quite an unusual and unique situation tonight. Winter Evergreen has been selected by all four houses, an occurrence that hasn’t happened in over a century. Under the circumstances of a student being chosen by multiple houses, they are given the privilege of choosing which house they will join. Now, Ms. Evergreen, what will your choice be?”

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