5
RECAP:
The names continued to be called, and the atmosphere blended excitement and suspense. Monty felt the knot of anticipation tighten in his stomach as Professor McGonagall finally declared, "Potter, Fleamont." Taking a deep breath, Monty stepped forward, determined to guide his steps as he approached the stool. He sat down, the stool creaking slightly under his weight. As the Sorting Hat was placed atop his head, a familiar voice reverberated in his ears.
" Well, well, well. You are quite unlike any eleven-year-old I've encountered before ," the Sorting Hat mused, its voice a blend of curiosity and warmth.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Monty replied, his voice slightly hesitant yet imbued with a hint of defiance, feeling somewhat affronted by the hat's presumption.
The Sorting Hat seemed to chuckle softly before continuing, " You have faced challenges early in life, taking on the responsibility of raising your younger siblings. That shows a bravery that many would shy away from. Your loyalty to your family and that steadfast friend, Agatha Sallow, speaks volumes about your character. And intellect; it takes a sharp mind to oversee the well-being of others for so long. You possess the makings of a great leader, guiding your siblings as they navigate their paths. "
Monty felt pride at the hat's recognition, but anxiety lingered as the Sorting Hat contemplated his future. " Let's analyze further. Could you embody the courage of a Lion? Or perhaps the brightness of a Raven? There's loyalty, too, reminiscent of a Badger, yet you carry the leadership potential that sets you apart from the Slytherins. So many choices... Let's see… You belong in... "
“SLYTHERIN!” bellowed the Sorting Hat, its voice echoing off the enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall, causing an immediate hush to fall over the sea of eager, wide-eyed students. Monty breathed a heavy sigh, his heart thudding in his chest as he rose. He cast a fleeting glance at Professor McGonagall, who was watching him with a wistful expression. As she gently lifted the hat from his head, he caught the trace of sadness in her eyes and felt a pang of regret.
He knew well why she looked that way; his late parents had been proud Gryffindors, known for their bravery and daring. The whispers that swept through the hall were like a chilling wind—everyone had expected Monty to follow in their footsteps, to embody the same qualities revered in the scarlet and gold house. Yet, Monty understood something that many of the older students didn’t quite grasp: the Sorting Hat’s choice was not merely about legacy but a reflection of one’s true self.
As Monty made his way toward the Slytherin table, he could feel the curious glances from his classmates, some filled with surprise, others with disdain. With every step, he felt the weight of their expectations pressing down on him, but he also felt a flicker of determination ignite within. He had his path to carve at Hogwarts, which was distinctly his own. A small, resolute smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he imagined the letter he would write to Mr. Sallow. It would be one of excitement and questions about life in Slytherin, a house known for cunning and ambition.
Settling himself at the long, serpentine table, he was surprised to find a mix of welcoming nods and skeptical stares from his new housemates. He knew he had much to prove, but deep down, he was ready for this new chapter—to embrace his identity and make his mark as a Slytherin.
Monty glanced at Agatha, who wore a gentle smile that brightened her face amidst the dim candlelight of the Great Hall. The enchanting ambiance was momentarily interrupted as Professor McGonagall called the next name from the list, causing Monty's gaze to drift to the wooden stool poised in the Great Hall.
As the ceremony unfolded, Monty's apprehension grew with each name called. When Professor McGonagall finally announced, "Prince, Irene," his heart sank slightly. He watched intently as Irene approached the stool, her steps confident yet laced with uncertainty. She settled down, and Monty's thoughts raced as he silently hoped she would avoid the notorious Slytherin House.
As if the universe had answered his unspoken wish, the Sorting Hat's voice rang out clear and triumphant, "GRYFFINDOR!" The hall erupted into cheers, but Irene's expression shifted dramatically; her face contorted in disappointment as she slid off the stool, her features clouded with disdain. With a sharp exhale, she marched toward the Gryffindor table, her footsteps echoing her displeasure.
Feeling relief and puzzlement, Monty exchanged glances with Agatha, who stifled a laugh, clearly finding humor in the situation despite her impending sorting. The camaraderie they shared in their mutual disdain for Slytherin made the moment feel lighter. Monty and Agatha shared a moment of levity as they watched Irene's retreating figure. Even without a sorting of her own yet, Agatha seemed almost triumphant.
Monty glanced back nervously at the weathered wooden stool as Professor McGonagall, with her sharp gaze and crisp robes, began calling out names once more. Admittedly, he had little interest in the other students, and their whispers and laughter felt distant and irrelevant. He truly craved hearing the name of his best friend, Agatha. He focused intently, tuning out the ambient chatter until the professor's clear voice rang out, "Sallow, Agatha."
Monty sat up straighter with anticipation, crossing his fingers tightly beneath the table in a silent plea. His heart raced as he watched Agatha rise from the rows of eager first-years, her dark hair glinting under the flickering candlelight as she walked confidently to the stool. Professor McGonagall gently placed the ancient Sorting Hat atop Agatha's head, a familiar air of mystery enveloping the room.
Time seemed to stretch as the seconds ticked by; the room filled only with the soft rustle of robes and the occasional hushed breath. Then, after what felt like an eternity, the Sorting Hat erupted with its booming proclamation, "SLYTHERIN!"
Monty couldn't contain his excitement and clapped too enthusiastically, drawing a few irritated glances from nearby Slytherins. Yet for him, the stares were insignificant; what mattered most was that Agatha was joining him in the esteemed House of Slytherin, and together, they would navigate the adventures and challenges that lay ahead at Hogwarts.
Agatha raced over to the Slytherin table in the bustling Great Hall, plopping down in the seat next to Monty. The two friends exchanged warm smiles, a small bubble of camaraderie amidst the clamor of chatter and laughter. However, they couldn’t help but notice the disdainful glances from their housemates, who regarded their friendship with confusion and annoyance. Yet, Agatha and Monty brushed off the negativity, their bond solid enough to withstand sneers.
Professor McGonagall meticulously called each name for sorting as the feast began, her voice carrying authority and warmth. Once the last name was read, the headmaster, a tall figure with a twinkle in his eye, delivered a brief but inspiring speech about the values of friendship and bravery, reminding everyone of their shared journey. With that, the chatter returned, and the tables filled with platters of delicious food.
“Monty,” Agatha said, breaking the reverie as she looked up from her plate, where mashed potatoes lay half-eaten, “I saw that boy with two different eye colors staring at you when he walked over to Ravenclaw. Do you know why?” Her brow furrowed slightly, curiosity piqued.
Monty shook his head, his brow furrowing in thought. “No. I was going to find a good time to speak with him. He seems isolated.” His voice was low, tinged with concern. Together, they turned their attention toward the Ravenclaw table, where Chaz Grendel sat alone, his striking mismatched eyes scanning the room with a mix of wariness and longing. Monty felt a pang of sadness for the boy; he understood what it was like to think on the outside looking in.
While Monty considered the loneliness that sometimes accompanied him, he reflected on the nature of his friendships in Feldcroft. Outside of Agatha Anne Sallow, he had struggled to connect with his peers. He could never quite grasp why others steered clear of him. Perhaps it was because he was more mature than his classmates, often burdened with caring for his younger siblings. Or maybe it stemmed from the incident that left a mark on his reputation - when he punched a boy in the face for making fun of Baelfire’s name. The memory of that confrontation flashed through his mind, reinforcing the notion that perhaps it was the third option. Monty nodded to himself, convinced that standing up for what he believed in sometimes came at a price.
Monty glanced away from Chaz, his attention drawn to the professors’ table that loomed at the front of the Great Hall, where the flickering candlelight cast shadows on the faces of the faculty. As his eyes swept across the table, they finally locked onto the cold, scrutinizing gaze of Professor Snape, the notorious head of Slytherin house. A familiar feeling of dread washed over Monty as he mentally groaned, recognizing that he now had to navigate the complex dynamics of being under Snape’s authority.
Monty had long sensed that Snape harbored a particular disdain for him, though the reasons behind it remained a mystery. Perhaps Monty’s tendency to ask questions ruffled the professor’s feathers, or his refusal to conform to the rigid expectations that Snape seemed to embody so fervently. Despite knowing that respect is essential to the student-teacher relationship, Monty couldn’t shake the lessons taught by his late mother, who always reminded him that respect is earned, not automatically granted.
Monty paused to reflect on her words—“Just because someone holds a position of authority, whether as a boss or a teacher, doesn’t mean they should receive respect without reciprocating it.” He thought of all the times Snape had sneered at his attempts to engage, criticizing rather than guiding, leaving Monty feeling belittled and defensive. If Snape would treat him with apparent disdain, then Monty firmly resolved to withhold any respect that was not mutually shared. This principle wasn’t limited to just Snape; it extended to all of the professors at Hogwarts, each of whom would have to earn Monty’s regard through their actions, not their titles.
Mr. Sallow, Mr. Gaunt,
Please read this message to Mr. Gaunt when you have a moment.
I’m unsure how you’ll feel about this news, but Agatha and I have been sorted into Slytherin House. Interestingly, the very man we encountered, Professor Snape, is the Head of Slytherin. When I was placed in Slytherin, I noticed a flicker of displeasure on his face, which left me feeling quite uneasy. His earlier demeanor during our meeting in Feldcroft suggested that he may not extend respect toward me. I fear this could set an uncomfortable precedent, mainly because I am not inclined to respect someone who does not acknowledge my worth.
I am worried about getting into trouble during my time at Hogwarts.
Additionally, I request that you both look out for my siblings. Others mustn’t approach them without your presence, as I have concerns about their well-being. I trust you implicitly, Mr. Sallow and Mr. Gaunt, to help keep them safe and supported during this time.
Thank you for your attention and support.
Sincerely,
Monty
My Dearest Siblings,
Do you remember when I first explained the four Houses at Hogwarts to you? Well, I was sorted into Slytherin. That may seem odd since our parents were proud Gryffindors, but it simply means our paths are uniquely our own. As you prepare to enter Hogwarts next year, I want you to embrace your journey without the weight of our family's history. I'll visit during Christmas break, and I'm looking forward to seeing all of you again. I trust Mr. Sallow and Mr. Gaunt to look after you, but I need you to stay vigilant and watch our younger siblings. I have complete faith in your abilities. When I return for Christmas and summer break, I promise to take charge and ensure everything is in order, My Little Star.
Baelfire, if you ever need to discuss your dreams or have any worries, please send me an Owl. I'll always respond swiftly because I care about you so much, My Little Fire. Remember, Sirius will also be there for you—he's got your back.
Jim, please, for the love of Merlin, stay out of trouble while I'm away at Hogwarts. Sometimes, you get caught up in adventures, but listening to Sirius this time could save you from unnecessary hassles.
Matt and Penny, I need you both to take extra special care of our dog while I'm gone. I don't want to return home only to discover he's managed to sneak away or, heaven forbid, something worse has happened. Keep him safe and loved, and please, listen to Sirius.
Harry, Mia, Char, and Aza, I'm counting on you to refrain from bringing home random animals. I know your enthusiasm, but our hands are complete with Matt and Penny's dog. Helping him is enough responsibility for now, so please don't overwhelm yourselves. And once again, listen to Sirius.
Willow, Jasmine, Rosa, and Rose, I want you to know that I will be returning home soon, and I wholeheartedly promise I'll be back before you know it. In the meantime, please lean on Sirius for guidance. He is wise beyond his years, and I trust him to help you navigate anything that comes your way until I'm back.
With all my love,
Your Big Brother,
Monty
Fleamont,
Ominis and I have agreed to watch your siblings while you're away at Hogwarts closely. You can rest assured that there's nothing to worry about. We will vigilantly ensure that no one can take your siblings or engage them in conversation without our explicit permission. Ominis has arranged to cast a spell blocker around your home to enhance their safety. This will safeguard your siblings from any unwanted visitors or intrusions. The only individuals permitted to enter or leave the premises will be you, your siblings, Ominis, his great-grandchildren, my great-grandchildren, and myself.
I must admit, I'm not surprised to learn that you and Agatha are sorted into Slytherin. You both possess remarkable leadership qualities—something many overlook about Slytherins. I take pride in both of you for this and how you represent our house. However, I urge you, Fleamont, to avoid trouble at Hogwarts. On the same note, please remind Agatha to do the same, although I have faith that both of you will continue to uphold our values.
Be particularly cautious around Professor Snape. I have reservations about him, and something about his demeanor makes me uneasy. Please send me an owl immediately if he crosses any lines or behaves suspiciously. I will take swift action to address the situation.
Lastly, feel free to call me Sebastian, and don't hesitate to refer to Mr. Gaunt simply as Ominis.
Take care,
Sebastian
Monty,
This is Sirius – I’m so glad you took the time to owl us! Since you left for Hogwarts, Jim hasn’t stopped talking about you; he’s been making up wild stories about your adventures! I promise to look after our siblings while you’re away. Make the most of your time at Hogwarts, Monty! And remember to write to us often!
This is Baelfire – Thank you for your message! I’ll write a different letter as I’ve had one of those vivid dreams again. It felt genuine this time—I can’t wait to share it with you!
This is Jim – How dare you think that?! I never get in trouble—well, maybe just a little. Seriously though, please hurry back home soon, brother. The house feels empty without you!
This is Matt – I’m dying to hear about your standard room! Is it as grand as I’ve imagined? What are the colors like? Do you have a window facing the Quidditch pitch?
This is Penny. Have you made any friends yet? I hope they are as kind and interesting as you are—remember to be yourself!
This is Harry – How is Hogwarts treating you? Is that where Mummy and Daddy first met? I’m curious to know if it’s as magical as they say.
This is Mia. Are there any animals at Hogwarts? I hope you get to see some fantastic creatures!
This is Aza. Is there a library in Hogwarts? I’ve heard it’s massive and filled with all kinds of wondrous books. I wish I could explore it with you!
This is Sirius again – We all miss you dearly, Monty. I didn’t want the younger ones to see my writing, but I couldn’t hold back my feelings any longer. I know Sebastian and Ominis are around, but it feels different without you here to guide us. I want to share more, but fear others might read this letter.
With all our love,
Your thirteen siblings