Chapter One
The small wizarding town of Verdantvale, nestled in a lush valley and surrounded by vibrant herbology forests, was home to a diverse community of magical beings. The air was fresh with the scent of blooming plants, and the early morning light filtered through the trees, casting a serene glow over the town. At the heart of Verdantvale stood the Koh household, a large, elegant home that exuded warmth and tranquility. The house was peaceful, the only sound being the rustling of leaves in the morning breeze.
Inside, however, peace was far from Qing Yi’s mind. In his sleep, Qing Yi found himself trapped in a cage, his small hands gripping the cold iron bars as he looked out in terror. Around him, dark, monstrous figures loomed, their bodies hidden in swirling smoke, with long, spindly limbs that resembled spider legs. Their eyes glowed a menacing red, and they whispered in eerie, cold voices, their words indiscernible but terrifying. One of the monsters reached out for him, its long limb snaking through the bars, reaching closer and closer until—
Qing Yi jolted awake with a scream, his heart pounding in his chest. He sat up in bed, gasping for breath, his body drenched in cold sweat. The remnants of the nightmare still clung to him, making his skin crawl.
“That bloody dream again,” he muttered to himself, running a shaky hand through his damp hair. “Good lord, I might have to ask Mom for some more of that Restful Slumber Draught.”
He threw off the covers and swung his legs over the side of the bed, still feeling the lingering unease from the nightmare. Just then, there was a knock on his door.
“Qing Yi, are you up?” Jing Xiang’s voice came through the door, bright and cheerful. “It’s our first day at Hogwarts! Get ready, or we’ll be late!”
Qing Yi forced a smile, trying to shake off the last of the fear. “Yeah, yeah, I’m up,” he called back, pushing himself to his feet. He went through his morning routine, brushing his teeth, showering, and then slipping into his brand-new Hogwarts first-year student robes. Qing Yi’s silver hair gleamed under the soft light, and his emerald eyes, a signature of the ancient Koeh race, stared back at him with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. "Here we go," he whispered to himself.
Downstairs, the inviting aroma of a lavish breakfast filled the air as Qing Yi joined his family at the dining table. His mother, Yu Yan, a striking figure with silver hair and vivid blue eyes, was the heart of their family, expertly managing the herb fields and potion production that made their name known across the wizarding world.
The Koeh were a unique and ancient race in the wizarding world, known for their distinctive silver hair, light-colored eyes, and pale skin. Descended directly from the ancient elves, the Koeh possessed exceptional skills in potion-making, healing, and herbology. However, their biology set them apart even further.
Every Koeh child was born male by default, and it wasn’t until they reached the ages of 13 to 18 that they underwent the "Ceremony of Age," a pivotal rite of passage that determined their final gender. This ceremony involved drinking a special brew made from the sacred Veritasfolia tree—a tree carefully nurtured in the herb gardens of every Koeh household, including Yu Yan’s. The brew would reveal whether the child would remain male or transform into a female, a change that was permanent and irrevocable.
The Koeh's unique biology extended to their reproductive patterns. When a Koeh woman wed outside her race, her firstborn was invariably female—a girl exempt from the Ceremony of Age. Any subsequent offspring retained their birth male status and faced the Ceremony. For twins, the ritual transformed one to female while the other remained male, preserving the Koeh's delicate balance. If a Koeh married within their race, every child was born male, each destined to undergo the customary Ceremony of Age, thus upholding their ancient traditions.
Yu Yan, who had once been male and became female through the Ceremony of Age, married a regular wizard named Koh Jin Zhen. Together, they had three children: Jing Shi, the eldest, and twin boys, Qing Yi and Jing Xiang. Jing Shi was born female, as she was Yu Yan’s firstborn, while the twins had to undergo the Ceremony of Age. As a result, Jing Xiang became female, while Qing Yi remained male, each fulfilling their destinies within the Koeh tradition.
Jing Shi, the eldest daughter, was seated at the table, her own silver hair gleaming under the crystal chandeliers. She wore her Hufflepuff robes with pride, her violet eyes sparkling as she grinned at her younger siblings.
Jin Zhen, Qing Yi's father, was a tall, composed man with neatly combed dark hair and eyes that reflected a quiet strength. His features, gentle and kind, bore a firmness that spoke of his years of service at the Ministry of Magic. His stern demeanor softened into a smile as he looked up to see Qing Yi and Jing Xiang entering the room, their Hogwarts robes marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Yu Yan's eyes lit up with affection as she saw her twins. "There they are, my Hogwarts students!" she exclaimed, her silver hair cascading down her back as she turned to greet them. Her bright blue eyes shone with pride. "Look at you both! My little twins, all grown up and off to Hogwarts."
Their father’s eyes twinkled with joy as he joined in. "I’m happier than the day you all received your Hogwarts letters." He turned to Yu Yan, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Remember that day, dear?"
Yu Yan chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Of course! How could I forget? You cried so much, I thought I’d need to brew a calming draught for you!”
Their father chuckled, trying to keep a straight face. "Alright, alright, maybe I got a bit misty-eyed, but who wouldn't? Now, let's enjoy this breakfast, kids. We’ve got a train to catch, and we don’t want to be late!"
As they sat down, Yu Yan addressed Jing Shi, “Now that it’s your second year, I expect you to watch out for your siblings.”
Their father nodded in agreement, “I wouldn’t be surprised if you all end up in Hufflepuff together. Help your siblings out when they need it, okay? We love you all so much.”
Jing Shi leaned in, smiling. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure they find their way around—Hogwarts is enormous, but I’ve got it all figured out.” She said as she looked at her siblings.
The twins nodded, their earlier excitement mingling with the warmth of their parents' words. The tension from Qing Yi’s nightmare slowly melted away in the warmth and love of his family. The breakfast was lively, filled with chatter about what Hogwarts would be like, the subjects they would study, and the new friends they would make. The anticipation of the day ahead made Qing Yi’s earlier fear seem like a distant memory.
The Koh siblings arrived at King's Cross Station, the bustling platform filled with the chatter of students and parents preparing for another year at Hogwarts. Jing Shi, carrying herself with the confidence of a seasoned second-year student, led her younger siblings through the crowd. Her violet eyes sparkled with excitement as they approached the barrier between platforms nine and ten.
"Alright, you two, it's easy," Jing Shi said, her voice brimming with the authority of someone who had done this before. "Just walk straight at the barrier. Don’t stop, and don’t be scared."
Qing Yi eyed the solid pillar suspiciously. "You mean run headfirst into a brick wall? Sounds like a perfect plan."
Jing Xiang rolled her eyes at her twin brother. "You’ll be fine, Qing Yi. Just don’t chicken out."
Jing Shi grinned. "Watch this." Without hesitation, she took a step forward and vanished through the barrier.
Qing Yi and Jing Xiang exchanged a glance. "Ladies first," Qing Yi said with a smirk, gesturing for his sister to go ahead.
Jing Xiang huffed, her silver hair swishing as she marched forward, disappearing into the wall. Qing Yi took a deep breath and followed suit, bracing for impact, only to find himself stepping smoothly onto Platform Nine and Three-Quarters. The gleaming scarlet engine of the Hogwarts Express stood before them, its whistle echoing through the platform.
"That wasn’t so bad," Qing Yi muttered, dusting off his robes as if the journey had somehow ruffled them.
The platform was alive with energy, filled with students saying their goodbyes, parents offering last-minute advice, and the excited chatter of friends reuniting. The Koh siblings, now gathered on the platform with their trunks in tow, soaked in the atmosphere. The towering steam engine billowed clouds of smoke, adding a sense of magic to the already vibrant scene.
Just as they were about to step onto the train, their parents, Jin Zhen and Yu Yan, pulled them back for one last round of hugs. Yu Yan’s vivid blue eyes softened as she looked at her children, her silver hair glinting in the light.
"Remember, if you need anything—anything at all—just send an owl, and we’ll be there as fast as we can," she said, her voice warm but with an underlying tone of concern.
Jin Zhen, standing tall with a gentle smile, ruffled Qing Yi’s silver hair. "Take care of each other, alright? Hogwarts is an adventure, but you’re ready for it. And Jing Shi," he added, turning to his eldest daughter, "keep an eye on your siblings. I know you will."
Jing Shi nodded confidently. "I will, Dad. Don’t worry."
The twins hugged their parents tightly, the bittersweet feeling of leaving home for the first time tugging at their hearts. "We’ll be fine, Mom, Dad," Qing Yi said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "We’ve got each other."
Yu Yan smiled, though her eyes glistened with unshed tears. "That’s right. Now, off you go. Have a wonderful first year, and don’t forget to write."
With one last hug, the siblings turned and boarded the Hogwarts Express. As the door closed behind them, they waved through the windows while the train began to pull away. Their parents waved back with proud but slightly worried expressions, watching as their children embarked on their Hogwarts adventure.
Inside the train, Jing Shi led her younger siblings through the corridor. "Come on, you two, let’s find a compartment."
The trio found an empty compartment on the train, settling in as the final passengers boarded. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, students leaning out of windows to wave goodbye to their families.
Jing Shi took a seat by the window, pulling out a small, delicate cage. Inside, a tiny hamster with soft brown fur and bright eyes was busy running on its wheel. She gently placed the cage on her lap. "Meet Nibbles, my new pet."
Qing Yi raised an eyebrow, leaning back with a smug grin. "Nibbles, huh? Cute. I’ve been thinking of getting a cat... You know, a nice, big one. Perfect for keeping little rodents in check."
Jing Xiang’s eyes widened in horror, clutching Nibbles' cage protectively. "You wouldn’t dare!"
Qing Yi smirked. "Oh, wouldn’t I?"
Jing Shi rolled her eyes, chuckling at her siblings’ banter. "Behave, you two. We haven’t even made it to Hogwarts yet, and you’re already plotting against each other."
Jing Xiang gave her brother a playful glare. "I swear, Qing Yi, if anything happens to Nibbles, I’ll... I’ll hex you!"
Qing Yi pretended to consider this. "Well, I suppose I could settle for a cat that only hunts outside. For now."
Jing Shi shook her head, amused. "You two are impossible. Anyway, what houses do you think you’ll end up in?"
Qing Yi shrugged. "Hufflepuff, probably. It’s the family tradition, right? Though with my luck, I’ll end up in Slytherin just to be difficult."
Jing Xiang grinned. "I’m definitely going to be in Hufflepuff. It’s where all the cool people are—right, Jing Shi?"
Jing Shi smiled warmly. "That’s right. Hufflepuff is the best house. But wherever you both end up, just remember to look out for each other. Hogwarts can be... an adventure."
Qing Yi gave his sister a mock salute. "Yes, ma’am. I’ll keep an eye on her. Make sure no cats get too close."
Jing Xiang rolled her eyes again, but she couldn’t help smiling. "Just remember, I know where you sleep."
The train whistle blew, signaling the start of their journey. As the Hogwarts Express pulled away from the station, the Koh siblings settled in, the excitement of the new school year bubbling up as the countryside began to blur by.
As the Hogwarts Express came to a slow, hissing halt, the anticipation among the first-year students was palpable. The doors of the train slid open, and the cool evening air of Hogwarts greeted the new arrivals. The platform was bustling with activity, older students reuniting with friends, and the first years stepping off the train with wide eyes and nervous excitement.
Standing at the edge of the platform, towering above everyone else, was a giant of a man with a wild mane of hair and a beard that seemed to have a life of its own. He held a lantern high above his head, its light casting long shadows across the platform.
"Firs' years! Firs' years over here!" the man bellowed in a voice that boomed like thunder. His expression was warm and welcoming, despite his intimidating size. "Welcome to Hogwarts, ye lot. We'll be takin' a boat ride across the lake to the castle. C'mon now, line up an' stick together."
Qing Yi glanced around, taking in the sight of the other students who had also disembarked. There was a tall boy with sharp, aristocratic features and a proud bearing; a shorter, rounder boy with a perpetually nervous expression; a pair of boys with strikingly similar features, one with a quiet intensity, the other with an air of calm wisdom; and a group of girls who appeared to be discussing something animatedly among themselves.
As he observed the crowd, two boys about his age sidled up to him. One had a mischievous grin that seemed permanently plastered on his face, while the other had a more serious demeanor, though his curiosity was evident in the way his eyes darted around, taking in every detail.
"First time here, huh?" the grinning boy said, nudging Qing Yi with his elbow. "Bet you’re excited. I’m Wei Wuxian, and this here is Jiang Cheng." He gestured to his more reserved companion. "What’s your name?"
Before Qing Yi could respond, Wei Wuxian continued, "So, what house do you think you'll end up in? I’m hoping for Gryffindor. They say Slytherin’s common room is under the Black Lake. Can you imagine sleeping so close to those creepy creatures?"
Qing Yi’s ears perked up at the mention of the Black Lake. The idea of a common room submerged underwater was both fascinating and thrilling. "Under the lake? That sounds… incredible. What kind of creatures are in there?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
Jiang Cheng, who had been quietly listening, shrugged. "I dunno, maybe giant squids? Krakens, perhaps?" He then added, almost as an afterthought, "My sister told me about the Forbidden Forest, too. She said it’s haunted and filled with all sorts of dark creatures—werewolves, acromantulas, and worse."
A spark of excitement flickered in Qing Yi’s eyes. The thought of encountering such creatures stirred something deep within him, a thrill he couldn’t quite place. "The Forbidden Forest… It sounds dangerous, but also fascinating," he mused aloud, his mind already racing with the possibilities of what secrets the forest might hold.
Noticing the gleam in his eye, Wei Wuxian grinned even wider and gave Qing Yi a friendly pat on the back. "Don’t worry about that stuff, though. We’ll be too busy learning spells and causing a bit of chaos, right?" He winked. "By the way, what’s your name?"
Qing Yi snapped out of his thoughts and smiled. "Oh, right. I’m Koh Qing Yi, and this is my twin sister, Jing Xiang."
Wei Wuxian’s eyes widened dramatically, and he let out a playful gasp. "Twins? No wonder I thought I was seeing double! For a second, I was worried I’d been hit with a Confundus Charm! Nice to meet you, both of you!"
Jing Xiang stifled a giggle, while Qing Yi rolled his eyes good-naturedly.
"Let’s hope we all end up in the same house. I like you already, Qing Yi," Wei Wuxian added with a playful wink.
Jing Xiang offered a shy smile to the two boys, while Jiang Cheng gave a nod of acknowledgment, still quieter than his energetic friend. "Yeah, that’d be cool," Jiang Cheng added, glancing around at the growing crowd. "But whatever house we end up in, let’s stick together."
Before they could continue, Hagrid’s booming voice interrupted, "Firs' years! Firs' years, follow me! Second years an' above, ye know where to go."
Jing Shi, who had been standing nearby, turned to her younger siblings and pulled them into a tight hug. "This is it, you two. Make the most of it, and don’t forget to have fun," she said with a smile, her voice full of encouragement.
"We will," Qing Yi promised, returning the hug. Jing Xiang nodded as well, her eyes shining with excitement.
As Jing Shi pulled away from her younger siblings, a voice called out from behind her.
"Jing Shi!"
Jing Shi turned around to see a handsome young man approaching, his steps graceful and unhurried. "Oh, hi, Xichen," she greeted warmly, her smile broadening.
Qing Yi and Jing Xiang both turned to look at the older student. He was tall, with an air of quiet confidence that instantly drew their attention. His hair was neatly combed back, revealing a gentle face marked by kindness and an ever-present, serene smile that seemed to put everyone around him at ease. His Ravenclaw robes, adorned with the house's signature blue and bronze colors, were perfectly arranged, and the gleaming prefect badge on his chest caught the light. There was something about the way he carried himself that exuded both the wisdom Ravenclaw was known for and a warmth that transcended house boundaries.
Jing Shi gestured toward her younger siblings with a proud smile. "Xichen, these are my younger siblings, Qing Yi and Jing Xiang. It's their first year."
Lan Xichen’s smile widened as he looked down at the twins. His gaze was soft, and his smile was as captivating as it was reassuring. "Nice to meet you both," he said in a voice that was smooth and calming, as if each word was chosen to comfort. "Your sister has spoken a lot about you two."
Jing Xiang blushed at his words, glancing shyly at Jing Shi. "Nice things, I hope?" she asked, her voice tinged with both curiosity and a hint of nervousness.
"Of course!" Jing Shi chirped, her overly bright tone and quick sideways glance betraying her words.
Lan Xichen’s smile remained, his kind eyes reflecting his gentle nature. "You’re lucky to have such a caring sister," he added, the sincerity in his voice clear. "First years, huh? You’re in for quite an adventure. My younger brother, Lan Wangji, is starting this year too. Perhaps you’ll become friends."
Qing Yi and Jing Xiang nodded, still a little awestruck by how kind and approachable Lan Xichen seemed. His gentle demeanor made the prospect of starting at Hogwarts seem a little less daunting.
Before they could say more, another second-year student hurried by, calling out, "Xichen, we need to get going! The carriages are leaving!"
Lan Xichen nodded, his smile never faltering. "I suppose that’s our cue," he said with a chuckle. Turning back to Jing Shi, he added, "We’d better catch up."
Jing Shi gave her siblings another quick hug, her voice filled with affection. "You two be good, okay? I'll see you at the feast. Stick together."
"We will," Qing Yi and Jing Xiang chorused.
They watched as their sister joined Lan Xichen and the other older students, who began to walk away towards the carriages that would take them to the castle. Qing Yi and Jing Xiang exchanged a glance, the excitement of the day mingling with the lingering warmth of the encounter with Lan Xichen.
As they turned to follow Hagrid and the other first years toward the boats, Qing Yi's thoughts momentarily drifted back to the mention of the Dark Forest. The idea of dark creatures lurking in its depths still niggled at the back of his mind. But before he could dwell on it too long, Wei Wuxian's cheerful chatter pulled him back into the present moment, reminding him of the adventure that lay ahead.
"Do you think we’ll get to see the Forbidden Forest?" Qing Yi asked, half curious and half dreading the idea.
Wei Wuxian’s grin widened, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "I hope so! Just imagine all the trouble we could get into."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes but smirked. "Trouble is right. My sister would probably kill me if I ended up in the Forbidden Forest on the first day."
Qing Yi chuckled, feeling a little more at ease with his new friends. "Let’s just hope we don’t end up in detention before classes even start."
As the group followed Hagrid, the towering figure leading the way, Qing Yi couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. He had no idea what lay ahead, but with new friends by his side, he was ready to face whatever Hogwarts had in store.
As the first-year students gathered near the edge of the lake, the massive silhouette of Hogwarts Castle loomed in the distance, its turrets and towers glowing warmly against the evening sky. The sight was both awe-inspiring and slightly intimidating, especially for those who had never seen anything quite like it before.
Hagrid motioned toward a line of small boats, bobbing gently on the water. "Alrigh', everyone in! Four to a boat, no more, no less."
Qing Yi, still feeling the lingering excitement from his conversation with Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng, climbed into a boat with them and Jing Xiang. The boat wobbled slightly as they settled in, but a steady hand from Hagrid kept it from tipping over.
As the boats began to glide across the glassy surface of the lake, the students fell into a hushed silence, captivated by the beauty of the castle reflecting off the water. Even Wei Wuxian, who had been full of energy and chatter moments before, seemed momentarily lost in the splendor of it all.
Qing Yi’s heart raced with a mix of anticipation and wonder. The Dark Forest, the hidden corridors of Hogwarts, the magical creatures—everything seemed like a mystery waiting to be unraveled. He glanced at the other students in his boat, noting how they too were mesmerized by the scene.
"Can you believe it?" Wei Wuxian finally broke the silence, his voice filled with awe. "We’re actually here. Hogwarts. The place where all the great wizards trained. We’re going to learn so much magic!"
Jiang Cheng smirked, his earlier bravado softened by the sight before them. "Yeah, but let’s not forget we’re still first years. We have a long way to go before we’re casting any great spells."
Qing Yi nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed on the castle ahead. "It’s hard to believe this is real. It feels like a dream."
Jing Xiang, sitting beside him, squeezed his hand reassuringly. "It’s real, Qing Yi. And we’re going to experience it all together."
The boats carried them closer to the castle, the grandeur of Hogwarts becoming more apparent with every passing moment. As they reached the shore, Hagrid was already there to help them out of the boats.
"Welcome to Hogwarts, ye lot," he said with a grin. "Yer about to start a great adventure, so be ready."
The students climbed out of the boats and followed Hagrid up a steep path leading to the castle’s entrance. The air was filled with the sound of their excited chatter, mingling with the distant hoots of owls from the Owlery. Qing Yi felt his earlier nervousness melt away, replaced by a sense of belonging and a burning curiosity for what lay ahead.
As they reached the massive oak doors, Hagrid turned to face them one last time before they entered. "Alright, here we are. Now, no runnin' off, an' stick together, yeah? The professors'll be waitin' to greet yeh inside."
With that, he pushed open the doors, revealing the grandeur of the Hogwarts entrance hall, and led them into the world that would become their home for the next seven years.
The first-year students followed Hagrid into the grand entrance hall, their footsteps echoing off the stone floor. The ceiling seemed impossibly high, and the walls were adorned with ancient tapestries depicting scenes of wizarding history. The students’ eyes widened as they took in the grandeur of Hogwarts for the first time, whispers of excitement buzzing through the group.
Qing Yi couldn’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation as they entered. Everything about the castle felt steeped in magic, from the enchanted chandeliers casting a warm glow to the suits of armor that appeared to watch them as they passed.
At the far end of the hall stood a woman with curly brown hair, dressed in deep scarlet robes. Her presence was both welcoming and commanding, and the students immediately quieted as they approached her.
"Welcome to Hogwarts," Professor Hermione Granger began, her voice clear and confident. "I am Professor Granger, and I will be your Transfiguration teacher. I also have the honor of welcoming you to your first year here at Hogwarts. In a few moments, you will enter the Great Hall and be sorted into your houses. Each house is like a family here at Hogwarts, and your housemates will be your closest friends, your rivals in friendly competition, and your companions on this magical journey."
The students listened intently, some with wide-eyed anticipation, others fidgeting nervously. Qing Yi felt his heart pounding in his chest, the weight of the moment settling in.
"Hogwarts has four houses," Professor Granger continued, "Gryffindor, known for bravery and chivalry; Hufflepuff, celebrated for loyalty and hard work; Ravenclaw, revered for wit and wisdom; and Slytherin, valued for ambition and resourcefulness. Each house has its own unique qualities and traditions, and throughout your time here, you’ll earn points for your house based on your achievements."
As she spoke, the students exchanged glances, some whispering excitedly to each other about where they hoped to be placed. Qing Yi couldn’t help but glance at Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng, wondering where they would end up.
"The Sorting Ceremony is a time-honored tradition," Professor Granger went on, a warm smile playing on her lips. "When you’re called forward, you’ll sit on the stool and place the Sorting Hat on your head. The hat will consider your qualities and decide which house is the best fit for you."
Qing Yi felt a shiver of excitement run down his spine. The thought of the Sorting Hat peering into his mind and deciding his future was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.
Professor Granger gestured to the large wooden doors behind her. "Now, when we enter the Great Hall, I ask that you remain quiet until you are called. This is an important moment, and I know you’re all eager to find out where you belong."
She turned and led the way to the doors, which slowly creaked open to reveal the Great Hall beyond. The first-years gasped collectively as they took in the sight: four long tables stretched the length of the hall, filled with students from all years, their faces lit by thousands of floating candles. Above them, the enchanted ceiling mirrored the night sky, twinkling with stars.
Qing Yi’s breath caught in his throat. The beauty of the hall was overwhelming, and he could feel the magic in the air, pulsing with centuries of history.
"Stick together," Wei Wuxian whispered to Qing Yi and Jiang Cheng, his eyes wide with awe. "This is it."
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