King's Cross station was crowded with people moving with the sense of purpose repetition instilled into one. When they failed to find platform nine and there quarters, Naruto took to observing the sea of strangers for any indicators of anything magical.

But he found none. In fact, Naruto realized that aside from moving out of their way, not many people seemed to pay attention to the fact they were pushing carts filled cauldrons, books, and in Harriett's case, a snow-white owl.

"All these platforms are whole numbers," Harriett observed with a huff. "Maybe we should ask someone?"

"Most people don't know about magic, remember?" Naruto said as he lead them to a section of wall, out of the bustling flow of foot traffic. "They'll only think we're crazy. No, there has to be something to this. I just wish Hagrid or even our letters would'a mentioned something because we can't be the only one's who don't know what the… what's going on."

"But we're running out of time," Harriett was beginning to sound frustrated and maybe even a little panicked. "The train is scheduled to leave in ten minutes!"

"We'll find it," Naruto reassured despite having no way of actually doing so. He was certainly growing concerned they may not make it in time, but he had to keep his composure or his friend would undoubtedly lose hers.

Before they could go around in an other circle, Naruto finally caught sight of something out of the ordinary. It was a family with hair a vibrant shade of red. There were five in total and hard to miss; a mother, a pair of older identical twins, a boy about Harriett and his own age, and a little girl holding tightly onto her mother.

While they were being loud in an already bustling train station and their hair contrasted heavily with their pale complexions, Naruto took immediate notice of the fact they were also pushing carts similar to theirs in what they contained. The youngest of the three boy's cart had cauldrons and books like their own, while the two oldest were mainly filled with suitcases and a couple of books.

The mother had been yelling at one, or possibly even both, of the twins when he abruptly ran at the wall in between platforms nine and ten. Naruto almost flinched in anticipation of a crash but instead, the boy vanished into the very wall as if swallowed up by the bricks in a subtle ripple. The other twin wasn't far behind his brother and after exchanging prompt and inaudible words with his mother, the youngest boy looked ready to do the same, but was held back by the woman who took possession of his ear before he could charge forward.

"This way," Naruto urged, making his way towards the mother and daughter with Harriett close behind him. "Excuse me."

"Yes dear?" The woman acknowledged him with a smile that radiated kindness despite having just let go of the blushing boy's ear.

She was a short and plump woman that reminded Naruto much of Janice. Curiously enough and at their approach, the little girl holding her hand had retreated behind her mother, peeking at them with large browns shivering with shy curiosity; the bulk of her attention on him.

"I just saw your sons run into the wall," Naruto said and Harriett glanced at him curiously from his peripherals. "Is this platform nine and three-quarters?"

"First years?" She asked and at their nods, she motioned to her remaining son. "It's Ron's first year too."

At the mention of his name, the boy waved awkwardly at them. He was about his height, scrawny, and had freckles splashed across his face.

"Sure is," Naruto said, feeling relieved at having found someone to potentially help them. "We're both kinda new to this magic thing, so we don't really know what we're doing or where we're supposed to go."

"I understand," the woman once again smiled at them kindly. "And it's really quite simple. All you have to do is walk into the platform there. Now you may crash if you're nervous, mind you, so it's best to just run at it."

"Naruto?" Harriett said with audible uncertainty.

It was a sentiment Naruto shared despite having just witnessed it. The reason behind his reluctance was because he didn't know if there was any magical requirements to actually crossing, or if one simply had to just run at it.

"Don't worry you two, it never fails. Why don't you two try going first before my Ron?" The woman urged, sending the boy a stern look. "There's still a few things I've to discuss with him."

"I'll go first," Naruto said. If it was somehow a fluke, he could take the crash better than his friend, who also happened to be carrying both their pets. "Thank you ma'am," he said, figuring it wouldn't hurt to be nice in the event she was telling the truth.

"You're very welcome, young man," the woman said.

"Well, "Naruto sighed and gripped his cart tightly. "Here goes something."

He ran at the wall, likely faster than he needed to, but the woman seemed to place emphasis on having no hesitation. Of course Naruto had his apprehensions about running straight into a brick wall, but he had to know.

In a blink, Naruto found himself before a train distinctively different than the other's they'd seen before. Steam bellowed from its smokestack, floating lazily above the crowds of people that, unlike before, did appear to belong to what little he knew of the Wizarding world.

An even more promising sight yet were the children of varying ages, some already on the train, their heads out of the windows, chatting with their families. Others were still outside of the train, hugging and crying about their upcoming departure.

If the fact he'd just run through a brick wall and the flocks of caged owls and free roaming cats weren't enough to convince him he was in the right place, the sign hanging above the steam train certainly erased any doubts. Naruto felt anticipation soaring within him at what he read.

Hogwarts Express.

"Amazing."

Naruto hadn't realized when Harriett made her own way through the brick wall. She was currently at his side, entranced by the sight, just as he had been.

"It really is," Naruto admitted. "But we should hurry and get on while there's still room."

They pushed through the crowd and boarded the train. Once inside the passed through many compartments filled with new faces, all chatting amongst themselves with clear excitement for the year to come.

Finally, they found a compartment that was empty, but it was near the end of the train.

The compartment was rather small but cozy, with seating enough for at least six people and an open view of the outside. Naruto stored their things away in the empty spaces above their heads before taking the seat next to Harriett.

"We made it," she said with a smile.

"Excited?" Naruto asked, knowing full well she was, if the smile on her face was of any indication.

Their conversation was interrupted by a burst of commotion outside their window. They both looked out the window to see the family from before reunited. The matriarch of the family was doting over the youngest boy, who was immediately mocked by the twins.

Their mother chastised them for doing so before warning against another year of pranks. Naruto's interest was peaked at the mention of his favorite childhood pastime. He had a sneaking suspicion he would get along with the twins should he ever get the chance to speak with them.

"I'm excited to learn more about my parents," Harriett's words were soft as she watched the family's affectionate squabble. There was an unmistakable longing in her eyes and it was a sentiment he could relate to.

"I'm sure you will," Naruto said, taking a hold of her hand.

Harriett glanced down at their hands and then at him with another dimpled smile and shinning eyes.

"We also made it on a train," Harriett said. "You kept your promise."

Naruto recalled that promise and palmed the back of his head sheepishly. "I guess it kinda worked out, didn't it? But it really wasn't my doing, though."

"But you got us here, didn't you?" Harriett said. "I don't know if the Dursleys would've bothered bringing me along."

"I guess so," Naruto chuckled, suddenly feeling embarrassed for some reason.

Abruptly the train's whistle blew, putting an end to the family's time together. All three boy's rushed aboard. Naruto felt his heart churn with emotion as he watched the little girl chase after the train, waving at it with a smile and tears until her small legs could no longer keep up with the train.

Just as they had settled back into their seats, there was a knock at the door just before it opened to reveal the youngest of the redheads from before.

"Mind if I join you?" He asked politely and with nervous undertones. "Everywhere else is full and Fred and George don't want me sitting with them."

Naruto silently asked Harriett her opinion and at her nod, he motioned him in. "Go ahead," he said.

"Thanks, mate," the boy smiled. "Name's Ron by the way. Ronald Weasley, but I suppose me mum already said that. I'd thank you to just call me Ron, though."

"Naruto Namikaze," Naruto introduced himself, presenting the boy his fist.

Ron stared at in in confusion.

"You're supposed to bump it," Naruto clarified.

"Bump it?" Ron repeated slowly.

"Make a fist," he said after concealing a roll of the eyes behind an extended blink. Ron did as he was asked and Naruto pressed his fist against it briefly. "There, like that."

"Is that like a handshake?" Ron asked.

"Something like that," Naruto grinned. "But better."

"Wicked name you got, by the way. Naruto Namikaze," he repeated slowly and a few times.

"Well at least you can actually say it," Naruto muttered to himself.

"I'm Harriett Potter," Harriett took that moment to introduce herself, also presenting her fist.

This made Naruto smile considering she'd never done that before.

But Ron didn't reciprocate the gesture. Instead, he stared at Harriett with eyes wide and mouth agape.

"H-Harriett Potter?" The boy stuttered. "As in the Harriett Potter? The Girl Who Lived?"

"It's just Harriett," Naruto interjected firmly.

"Do you really have the scar?" Ron blurted out. "Can I see it?"

"Listen, Ron," Naruto began, taking a tone that immediately pulled the boy's attention. "If you're gonna sit with us, you can't ask any personal questions about Harriett. Got it?"

"But there's nowhere else to sit," Ron muttered.

"Then don't bother her with any of that Girl Who Lived shi — stuff," Naruto said and almost felt bad for the way he was speaking to the meek boy. But he didn't want his friend to relive the knowledge of just how she got the scar she seemed so insistent on hiding.

"S-Sorry," Ron apologized, looking down.

"It's okay," Harriett said, looking to Naruto first and then to Ron with a small smile. "I just don't like talking about it."

"I understand," Ron said, sounding genuinely remorseful. "Sorry again."

Harriett offered up her fist again and this time, Ron accepted it with a smile of his own. Soon the atmosphere in the small compartment returned to a lax one. That was until Ron started on the topic of magic.

"You must know a lot of spells!" Ron said, leaning forward in his seat excitedly. "You're the The Girl Who…" He trailed off, slowly turning to find Naruto's heavy stare on him.

"I really don't," Harriett interjected before Naruto could. She offered him a quick look of reassurance before turning back to Ron. "I lived with my aunt and uncle my whole life and they don't really like anything to do with magic. I didn't even learn about the Wizarding world until recently."

"You mean you don't even know about You-Know-Who?" Ron asked following a gasp.

"We know, we just don't like to talk about it, remember?" Naruto reminded him with an edge to his tone.

"Oh, right, sorry," Ron apologized again.

"It's alright," Harriett reassured, placing a hand over Naruto's clenched fist. "You didn't know but Naruto's right. I'd rather not talk about that."

The tension from before returned in full.

Outside, the grey city streets gave way to vast open fields and farmlands; the sights becoming the focal point of all three passengers in lieu of conversation. As much as Naruto didn't mean to hold it against the redheaded boy, he found it difficult to speak freely with Harriett in his presence.

Judging by his friend's own silence, she felt the same.

Thankfully they were all offered a reprieve when there was a soft knock at the door. They opened it to a woman with a cart full of goods.

"Anything off the carts, dearies?" She asked.

"I am a little hungry after all that running," Harriett said, looking to him. "What about you?"

"I could eat," Naruto agreed and followed after her. They still had plenty of money after buying their supplies and considering they had no idea how long a train ride lay ahead; he decided a few snacks were in order.

Harriett decided she wanted all the snacks.

She purchased at least one of everything, two, if she was feeling particularly inclined to a certain type of snack. All of which appeared foreign, beyond his own world and the one he now found himself in. Though somehow, they seemed fitting for what he was expecting of the Wizarding World.

"Am I supposed to eat this?" Naruto questioned the chocolate frog inside the packaging, moving as though it were alive. Beneath it a card with the moving image of an old man, but he paid it no mind, flicking it out the open window before biting into the frog with some reluctance.

He was pleased to find it was in fact made of chocolate; the best he'd ever tasted.

"Did you not want anything, Ron?" Harriett asked as she bit into a pumpkin shaped pastry.

Ron flustered and reluctantly held up a brown paper bag.

"My mum made me sandwiches," he said, opening the back to show them three sandwiches wrapped in brown paper towels. He unrolled one and frowned, the bread seemed to have been flattened at some point. "Again? I've told her I don't like corned beef."

"I'll trade you one for some of my snacks," Harriett offered sheepishly. "I really don't think I could eat it all."

"Speak for yourself," Naruto said, popping a green jelly been into his mouth. Up until then, he had a brown one that tasted like chocolate, a pink one like a strawberry, and a yellow bean that almost resembled ramen in flavor. Though that was likely wishful thinking. Either way, he decided he quite liked Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans. "These things are — "

A horrid taste assaulted his mouth.

"Naruto, are you okay?" Harriett asked, worried.

"Ew, that tasted bad," Naruto coughed. "Like grass."

"How do you know what grass tastes like?" Harriett asked.

"Give me one of your sandwiches," Naruto said to Ron, offering him two handfuls of candy. "I need to get rid of that taste."

"When they say every flavor, they mean every flavor," Ron said with a laugh, gladly aspecting the trade. "Consider yourself lucky you didn't get one that tastes like spoiled milk," he finished with a grimace.

Ron joined them in enjoying the snacks while Naruto devoured the sandwiches, devouring three of the four, and then the other half Harriett couldn't finish. After they had their fill, they settled down, chatting everything and nothing at the same time.

Ron was careful to avoid asking any personal question, glancing nervously at Naruto almost every time he was about to speak. Harriett on the other hand, was asking him questions about magic and the redhead did his best to answer them all. Though his knowledge of Hogwarts itself seemed limited to what his older brothers informed him of, and his knowledge of magic that of what his extensive family practiced at home.

Naruto, meanwhile, was content with petting his slumbering kitten, watching as the scenery passed him by. Open fields had come and gone, giving way to thick and tall forestry. It was almost reminiscent of Fire Country's forest, except the trees were more dense and darker in color; the soil black and moist instead of brown and arid.

The door to their compartment abruptly slid open, revealing a tearful boy with black hair and oversized front teeth.

"Sorry," he apologized following a sniff, "but have any of you seen a toad?"

The three occupants all shared glances before shaking their heads.

"I've lost him again!" the boy cried. "He keeps slipping away from me!"

Naruto was glad he hadn't gotten a toad. His kitten liked to sleep more than to explore.

"Don't worry, I'm sure you'll find him," Harriett tried to reassure the boy.

With another sniffle, the boy clambered away.

"He should consider himself lucky," Ron said. "No one in their right mind would want a toad. Though I suppose I'm not one to talk, got Scabbers."

Naruto looked to the large rat sleeping sleeping on his lap.

He hated rats because he used to have to share a home with them. They liked to steal his food and once, he woke to find one on his chest, its beady eyes staring into his own.

"Maybe my cat'll do us both a favor and eat your rat," Naruto suggested playfully, though stopped to consider they were almost the same size. "Well, when she's bigger anyway."

"Don't be mean," Harriett said, knocking her shoulder against his gently.

"What? I was only kidding, right Ron?" Naruto grinned at the boy playfully.

"Maybe," Ron said with a look that indicated he was actually considering the suggestion.

In Ron's lap, the rat's nose twitched.

Again, the compartment door slid open without warning and before the sniffling boy from before, was a familiar face.

"Has anyone seen a toad? Nevill's lost his," she said before seeing Naruto. Her eyes ignited with recognition. "Oh, Naruto! Fancy seeing you so soon."

"It's good to see you too, Hermione," Naruto said. From his peripherals, he could see his friend quickly looking between the two.

"Do you know her?" Harriett asked.

"Yeah, this is Hermione. We met at the pet store," Naruto said.

Hermione took the seat directly in front of Naruto, paying Neville no more mind, or Ron any by the window seat as she observed the kitten sleeping in his lap.

"Hermione Granger," she briefly acknowledged Harriett at his side before returning her attention to Naruto and his pet. "I see you chose her. I was going to but you know, I ended up going with my Crookshanks. Have you a name for her yet?"

"Not exactly," Naruto said, stroking his kitten behind her ears, eliciting audible purrs. "Can't really think of one, if I'm being honest."

"The naming process is an important part of pet ownership," Hermione said, her tone lecturing. She then moved to sit in between Harriett and Naruto, forcing the former to the side some. "I mean, how is she to answer to you if you haven't a name to call?"

"Eh, well she kinda just does her own thing so…" Naruto said. He wasn't sure how he was supposed to take her behavior. "I'll think of something eventually."

"See to it you do," Hermione said primly before finally acknowledging the others in the compartment. "Who may you two be then?"

"I'm Ron Weasley," Ron introduced himself reluctantly.

"Harriett Potter," Harriett muttered with her own audible reluctance and something of a frown.

"Are you really?" Hermione's voice pitched. "I've read all about you in my books. I just had to read something after I was done with Hogwarts: A History. You're in Modern Magical History, The Rise and Fall of the Dark Arts, and the Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth Century."

"Am I really?" Harriett asked reluctantly.

"I figured you of all people would know," Hermione continued undeterred by the uncomfortable looks coming from both Ron and Harriett. "Well, I know I would have done my research."

"Actually — " Naruto wanted to defend his friend but Hermione was quick to interrupt.

"So, do any of you know what House you'll be in?" The question was broad but her attention was on Naruto alone. "I've been asking around and I hear nothing but good things about Gryffindor. Well, at least from older Gryffindors. But I did read Dumbledore himself was in it, so I hope that's where I'll be."

"I don't really know — " Harriett tried to speak but Hermione continued on.

"I suppose Ravenclaw wouldn't be too bad either. I hear they place a great importance in knowledge," she said. "What about you, Naruto, where would you like to be placed?"

"I don't know," Naruto admitted. "I read about them in Hogwarts: A History, but I don't really care which I end up in as long as I'm in it with Harriett."

Hermione's eyes seemed to shine. "You like to read too?" She asked.

"I wouldn't say that," Naruto palmed the back of his head, his eyes straying up and to the right. "But I guess I don't mind it either, as long as it's interesting."

It was true. Jiraiya had purchased books in bulk to in an attempt to scope out the competition; or so he liked to claim. Naruto kept the books his godfather didn't deem graphic enough, taking to reading them in his free time before he reunited with his friend.

His own copy of The Tales of The Utter Gutsy Ninja, tucked away safely within a seal over his heart, had seen a lot of milage.

Maybe he did like to read, Naruto considered seriously.

"I've got plenty of interesting books," Hermione said with a smile that showed her two large front teeth. "I wouldn't mind sharing some with you, if you'd like."

"Ah, yeah, sure," Naruto agreed without truly meaning it. He just wanted to be nice to the girl.

"Then I do hope we'll be in the same House. You do not know how hard it is to find people who also like to read," Hermione said.

"Can't be that hard," Harriett muttered.

"Hermione," Neville whined from his place in the doorway.

"Oh, right," Hermione stood and smiled down at him. "Well, I've got to help Neville look for his toad now. But just so you know, we're almost there so you'd best get your school robes on. I look forward to seeing you again soon, Naruto."

"Yeah, me too, Hermione," Naruto said with a smile of his own.

As talkative as she was, Hermione seemed friendly enough. She was, after all, helping Neville look for his toad of her own volition. Or so he believed.

With that, Hermione and Neville departed in search of a toad.

"I sure hope she isn't in Gryffindor," Ron muttered.

"And I hope she isn't wherever we get placed," Harriett added with a frown.

"What?" Naruto looked between the two, his best friend specifically, feeling mildly surprised by her behavior. "I mean, yeah, she kinda talks a lot, but she seemed nice enough."

"To you, maybe," Harriett grumbled.

Naruto wondered if his friend was upset with the bushy haired girl. If so, it would be a surprise. He didn't know of anyone Harriett actively disliked, with the obvious exception of the Dursleys.

"Back to what we were talking 'bout before we were rudely interrupted," Ron huffed. "I was gonna ask if either of you heard what happened at Gringotts recently?"

"No, what happened?" Harriett asked curiously.

"It's been all over the Daily Prophet!" Ron seemed to consider something. "Well, I suppose you don't get that in the Muggle world. Anyway, someone tried to rob one of their high security vaults!" He finished scandalously.

"So it is possible," Naruto said following a hum. He rubbed his kitten's head ponderously, only to feel his friend lightly push him.

"Naruto!" Harriett said his name in warning.

"What?" Naruto was fighting to restraint himself from grinning, and then from pinching her cheeks as she did her best to look stern. She was lucky they were in the presence of who was becoming an acquaintance.

"So what happened to them?" Harriett asked Ron, ignoring Naruto.

"Well nothing," Ron shrugged. "But that's why it's such a mystery. No one tries to steal from Gringotts and gets away with it. My dad thinks it must've been the work of a powerful Dark wizard. Everyone's riled up thinking it may be one of You-Know-Who's old followers behind it all."

Evil, like hatred, operated on a cycle. Ron's words gave Naruto much to consider for what was ahead.

Once more, the door slid open, this time with something of a crash.

"Again?" Naruto was beginning to grow tired of the intrusions. Not that he really minded Hermione's visit, but he wasn't happy to see who was now standing at the door.

It was Draco Malfoy, the inferable kid from the robe shop, and he was flanked by two boys with gorilla-like stances. Their faces appeared too small on their round heads, both apparently well fed and both trying to look intimidating.

"I've heard talk about Harriett Potter being in this compartment. It must be you, I suppose," Draco was staring directly at Harriett.

"Yes," Harriett acknowledged tersely.

"Hello again Draco," Naruto said with a wave and a sarcastic smirk.

Draco's face contorted into an angry scowl. "You," he spat.

"Me," Naruto repeated mockingly.

"Allow me to introduce you to my friends," Draco retreated behind his gorilla guard with crossed arms and a smirk of his own. "Crabbe and Goyle."

"Ooh, which one's your boyfriend?" Naruto remained seated and relaxed, a clear indicator he wasn't intimidated by their display. "Or are they sharing you?"

All three boy's flustered a deep shade of red and Ron laughed. Harriett, meanwhile, looked like she was deeply disturbed by the thought.

"I'll tell you this right now, Potter," Draco spat. "I'd think carefully about who you choose to associate with. Last thing you need is to be seen with this low class loser and a mudblood!

Ron seemed to take offense to that and so did Naruto. He'd never heard the insult before, but he knew it to be just that, an insult. He already didn't like Draco and to him, that was reason enough to justify a physical response.

Both boys stood in near synchrony, with Harriett following close behind.

"And you'd do well to watch who you insult," she warned.

"Is that supposed to scare me?" Draco laughed sarcastically. "It's three against two and a girl. I quite favor our odds. Teach them a lesson, Crabbe, Goyle."

Naruto easily caught the larger boy's fist easily and immediately applied pressure to it. With a pained cry, he fell to a knee and began crying to be freed. Crabbe charged in to help his friend but a swift strike to his belly doubled him briefly before he was lifted by his neck.

"Blimey," Ron looked on in awe.

Naruto continued to restrain Goyle by almost crushing his hand with his own, while he held Crabb by the neck with the other. The boy was helplessly kicking at his midsection and hammering at his arm in a fruitless attempt to free himself with no success. All the while he stared directly at a mortified Draco, smirking dangerously.

"Let go!" Goyle cried thrice with tears falling down his red face.

Crabbe couldn't do even that.

"Actually it's Naruto against you three, I favor our odds," Harriett corrected semi-smugly.

Naruto had to restrain his surprise at his friend's reaction at his show of force considering her previous ones.

"You were saying, Draco?" Naruto tossed Crabbe at him first, sending both boys crashing into the wall of the train. He then proceeded to kick Goyle out, the larger boy landing atop the other two in a tangle of limbs and red faces.

"M-My father will be hearing about this!" Draco cried, sounding like he was near tears himself as they scrambled away.

"That was wicked!" Ron cheered. "You're right strong, aren't you?"

"Ah, well, ya'know…" Naruto didn't realize just how much of a show of strength he displayed in front of Ron. It would be something he needed to keep in check going forward, less he draw attention to himself.

"He is," Harriett agreed, looking at Naruto with a smile that indicated the secret they shared.

"I'm actually kinda surprised you didn't try to stop me," Naruto admitted to her once they'd settled back into their seats. Ron persisted in his praises, recounting what had just happened eagerly.

"Yes well, he insulted you," Harriett crossed her arms and huffed. "I won't stand for that."

"Thank you, Harriett," Naruto threw an arm over her shoulder and hugged her.

There were times in which he still found it difficult to believe he'd found such an amazing friend.

Hermione rushed back into their compartment a moment later, interrupting their moment.

"What was with all that commotion?" She asked, once again regarding Naruto alone.

"Naruto here just sent Malfoy and his friends running, that's what!" Ron continued to beam. "Oh you should've seen it! Lifted that lug a foot of the ground an' tossed him like he was nothing! I'm pretty sure all three were crying!"

"What is he saying, Naruto? You haven't been fighting, have you?" Hermione asked with her arms crossed, tapping her foot impatiently as she awaited for his response.

"They were bothering us, so I made them leave. That's it. No fighting," Naruto said and he wasn't lying. At least not entirely. He didn't consider the previous altercation to be anything closely resembling a true fight.

"I see," Hermione didn't look entirely convinced. "If that's the case then I suppose it's okay."

"I don't think we need your permission, thank you," Harriett remarked.

Again, Naruto was taken aback by her sudden change in behavior.

"And you should get out so we can get changed," Ron added rather forcefully.

Hermione's expression fell into something Naruto recognized all too well.

"Actually, we should both step out so Harriett can get changed first," Naruto said, throwing a forceful arm over the boy's shoulder, pulling him out into the corridor where there were children playing loudly, racing up and down the aisle.

"That's why I came in, really," Hermione motioned to the commotion. "They're actually very childish, aren't they?"

"I don't see what's wrong with having a little fun," Ron muttered.

Naruto was inclined to agree, but he could see Hermione was still trying to steady her quivering lip with shining eyes. "Well if you want, after we all get changed, you can join us in our compartment," he offered. He silenced Ron's protest by subtly tightening his arm around his neck.

"Oh, well," Hermione suddenly seemed to find the bright red carpeting of the train very interesting. "If you don't mind, I suppose I could. I'd just have to get my things from my compartment right now or on the way out."

As if spurred on by her words, an announcement sounded out, informing all students they were to leave their luggage on the train to be taken separately to the school.

"I think that takes care of that," Naruto said, offering the girl a grin.

It was an expression she matched brightly. "In that case, I suppose it wouldn't hurt being in the company of someone I know," she finished shyly. That was until she gasped. "He's turning purple!"

"Oh," Naruto let go of the boy. "Sorry!"

Ron fell to his knees, gasping and then breathing heavily. Once he regained his breath and stance, he looked to Naruto with a renewed sense of uncertainty. "Blimey mate, you've got quite the grip, yeah?" He rubbed at his bright red neck. "Remind me never to make you mad."

Harriett wasn't sure what to make of the new girl who seemingly forced herself into their group. She was well aware Naruto had invited her, but to her, the girl with bushy hair was being intrusive. Not much time had passed since she joined them and the train had finally come to a stop, but in that time, she never once stopped talking her friend's ear off.

To make things worse, Naruto didn't seem to mind at all!

She hadn't been able to get so much as a single word in before being rudely talked over by the girl. Worse was the fact Naruto didn't seem to mind that either!

First years over 'ere!" A familiar voice boomed, even above the sound of excited chatter and the hiss of the steam engine. "First years gather 'round over 'ere!"

Hagrid towered above all the lost faces, smiling and waving in their direction with a large lantern in hand. "Harriett, Na-roo-too, 'ope you two been doing well!"

Harriett waved at the giant but knew it was pointless to try and respond with all the commotion, and despite doing the same beside her, Naruto groaned. Likely at his continued mispronunciation of his name, pulling a giggle from her.

"Why did he call you that?" Hermione asked. "Do you know him?"

"I don't know," Naruto acknowledged with a sigh. "And I yeah, we know him. He brought us our letters."

"I see," Hermione said.

Harriett rolled her eyes.

"C'mon then, first years follow me!" Hagrid motioned to them with a large hand.

Harriett pushed to Naruto's free side, grabbing onto his hand for support as they followed Hagrid down a steep and narrow path. She almost slipped once but he caught her. It seemed that out of everyone, he didn't seem to be having any trouble keeping his footing.

"You'll all be gettin yer first sight o' Hogwarts in a moment!" Hagrid called out from the front of the pack of stumbling children. "Just round this 'ere bend!"

They broke through the thick forestry, leading into a large lake that glimmered in the light of the moon. Gentle ripples reflected the light coming from the windows of the massive castle perched atop a high mountain.

All were silent as they all took in their first sight of Hogwarts.

"Alright then, onto the boats!" Hagrid announced. "No more than four to a bout, less yeh want ter swim!" He finished with a full belly laugh.

Harriett, Ron, Hermione, and Naruto all piled into a single boat.

Hermione managed to take the seat next to Naruto, further annoying Harriett.

"Everyone in then?" Hagrid called from his own boat at the lead. "Forward!"

Their boat lurched forward, as did the others, moving in sync with one another, slowly but surely approaching Hogwarts. The great castle already looming in the distance seemed to grow larger still, and even more beautiful yet.

The boats carried them through a dark tunnel beneath the castle, illuminated faintly by Hagrid's single lamp. The tunnel itself was long, seemingly never ending until it did, leading to a beach made of small stones.

"Mind yer step now!" Hagrid warned as they ascended, leading up to a large duel oak door. His large fist rapped against the door three times, the sound reverberating loudly in the night.

A few moments passed before the doors swung open to reveal a tall witch. Her expression was stern as she stared down at them all, as if they'd already done something wrong. Her hands were concealed by her flowing green robes and the moon glinted off her glasses.

"This is Professor McGonagall," Hagrid announced with a smile. "You'd all do well to listen to 'er"

"Thank you, Hagrid. I shall take it them from here," Professor McGonagall said. She turned in place and began walking.

Naruto seemed to take the initiative and ushered herself and Hermione along, prompting the others to follow in their steps. Harriett, meanwhile, allowed herself to bed led by her friend as she found herself taken aback by just how large the inside of the castle was. It was almost as if the walls, tinted orange by the flickering torches, reached into the skies themselves.

Harriett couldn't quire place it, but there was something distinctively magical about it all. The feeling of entering the unknown, experiencing such wondrous sights for the first time, and in the compony of her best friend; it left her feeling entranced and eager for her coming adventure.

They continued to follow the tall women further into the castle, into a chamber so small they were crowded within inches of one another. Harriett was at Naruto's right side, with Ron to his left, and Hermione directly in front of him.

They were so closely compacted half of Naruto's face was obscured by Hermione's hair, leaving Harriett to wonder why they thought it was a good idea to pile them into such a small room.

"Welcome to Hogwarts,"Professor McGonagall began, outstretching her arms as if presenting to them something they could not see. "The start of the term banquet will begin shortly. But before you have your fill, you will all be sorted into your respective Houses. I ask you keep in mind the sorting is a very important ceremony because, whilst you are a student here, your House will be something of a family to you. Through the course of this year, and the years to come, you will share classes, sleep in your House dormitories, and spend your free time in your House Common room."

"I hope we're in the same House," Harriett whispered to her friend.

"I'm sure we will," Naruto said, smiling down at her.

That gave her some comfort.

"Anything but Slytherin," Ron muttered to himself.

"The four Houses of Hogwarts are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin," Professor continued, her sharp eyes were sweeping. "Each House has its own extensive history and each has produced outstanding witches and wizards. While you are here at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn your House points. Likewise, any rule-breaking or mischief will lose your House points. At the end of the year, the House with the most points will be awarded the House cup, a great honor, I assure you. With that said, I do hope each and everyone of you will be an asset to whichever House becomes yours."

"I'm still gonna prank people," Naruto said to himself in a whisper.

"Please don't," Harriett whispered back.

"The sorting ceremony will commence in a few minutes and will take place in front of your fellow students. I suggest you all keep to yourselves and consider what's most important whilst you wait," Professor McGonagall advised. "I will return for you when we are ready. Until then, behave yourselves."

With that, Professor McGonagall opened the door a crack and slipped through, briefly letting out a mass of chatter from within. All went deathly silent once the doors shut, leaving a group of nervous children with their overactive imaginations.

"Does anyone know how we'll actually be sorted?" Naruto asked aloud.

My brothers said it's some sort of test," Ron grimaced. "Well, George did. Fred said it was gonna hurt. Or was it the other way around?"

"But I don't know any magic!" Harriett panicked at the mention of a test. She pulled on Naruto's arm. "Do you think you could teach me something quickly?"

She supposed she only had herself to blame for that considering she'd spent most of the time since discovering of her best friend's secret abilities avoiding him. It wasn't until their final hours on the farm before they'd reconciled and by then, there was simply no time.

"I don't know any magic," Naruto reminded her with slightly narrowed eyes. "Remember?"

"O-Oh, you're right," Harriett felt her stomach drop at her slip in consideration. She was also hurt by the way he spoke to her, even if she knew deep down he didn't mean it. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay, I'm sure we'll be fine no matter what," Naruto reassured her with his words and actions by bringing her into a side hug. "We're not supposed to use magic outside of Hogwarts, remember? There's no way they'd expect us to know any if that's the case."

His efforts worked.

Harriett leaned into him, releasing a sigh of relief. He somehow always found a way to set her at ease.

"There was no such mention about a test in Hogwarts: A history," Hermione said, looking to Naruto unsurely. "Right? Or did I perhaps miss something?"

"No, you're right about there being no mentions of a test," Naruto said.

Another of Harriett's regrets were now not having paid their materials any real mind. She'd spent most time on the farm either having fun with Naruto, or upset with him. Her time in between was occupied with helping Janice and Jiraiya, or simply exploring the farm itself.

Harriett felt Naruto tense suddenly in tune with the sudden drop in the room's temperature. She was briefly confused when he suddenly pushed her behind him, alongside Hermione.

Both girls shared a wondering look before the reason behind his reaction was revealed.

"Ghosts!" Someone shouted.

Before them, Naruto's arm fell to his side, his hand positioned in a way that made it look like he was holding an invisible ball. His posture became even more rigid as two translucent beings floated eerily above them.

Both girls latched themselves to Naruto, who remained entirely focused on the spirits above.

"Forgive and forget, I say. We ought to give him a second chance," one of the ghosts said, his voice seemingly carrying an eerie echo to it. He was what remained of a short, fat, and bald man.

"My dear Frair, haven't we given Peeves every and all the chances he deserves? He gives us all a bad name and you know, he's not really even a ghost," the other spirit replied. He was taller, thinner, and wore tights of some kind.

They seemed to finally take notice of them.

"New students I see!" The rotund ghost smiled a ghastly smile.

"About to be sorted, I suppose?" The other ghost presumed.

A few of the students who didn't seem at all bothered, or even surprised, at the presence of the specters nodded in agreement.

"Oh I do hope to see some of you in Hufflepuff!" The rotund ghost exclaimed. "It was my old House, you know!"

"The sorting ceremony's about to begin," Professor McGonagall announced as she re-entered the room.

Naruto followed the ghosts as they disappeared into the nearby walls.

"Form a line now and follow me," Professor McGonagall instructed

Harriett pulled at Naruto's hand when he failed to move. "Naruto, are you okay?"

"Yeah," he said breathlessly and after swallowing hard. "Just... hate ghosts."

"I didn't believe they were real," Hermione muttered, clearly shaken by the experience herself. "I mean they were mentioned briefly in Hogwarts A history, but to see them…"

With that, Professor McGonagall opened the grand doors revealing the Great Hall. It was a massive room illuminated by what had to be hundreds, if not thousands, of candles which floated high above. There were four large and long tables populated by students regarding them in various forms of curiosity.

Harriett didn't put much if any thought into what Professor McGonagall meant when she mentioned a banquet, but what was before them all was a feast. Each table was full of golden plates and goblets, each plate full with food of many varieties, the scent enticing despite being indiscernible.

Both Ron and Naruto were both eying the food hungrily.

At the head of the room was yet another long table set horizontally, housing who must have been the other professors. Each face eccentric in their own way. Harriett was happy to see Hagrid had his own place at the table, one hand occupied with a large wooden stein that left his beard wet every time he drank from it.

"Look Naruto, above! Just like in the book!" Hermione tugged on Naruto's free arm and pointed above them.

Harriett looked up too to find a sky of shinning stars, amazed.

Professor McGonagall led them down the center of the room, between the equal divide in the four tables to a single stool on which sat a battered old witch's hat. She stood beside it, prompting them to stop in place, regarding them just as seriously as before.

Harriett, amongst others, gasped when the old hat came to life. What she thought to be a tear near the brim opened into a mouth and it began to sing.

Oh you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black, Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff, Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning for use any means To achieve their ends
So put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
Your'e in safe hands, though I have none.
For I'm a Thinking Cap!

The room erupted in cheers once the song ended. Harriett herself didn't cheer, but she did clap, at least until she noticed Naruto looked nervous again.

"Is something wrong?" Hermione seemed to notice as well and took the initiative to ask.

It annoyed Harriett.

"Ah, no, no I'm fine," Naruto muttered.

But it also reminded her that even if Naruto did want to share his concerns or speak freely, he couldn't. Not out in the open with as many prying ears as surrounded them.

"At least we didn't have to know any spells," Harriett added in what she hoped to be a distraction from whatever was bothering him.

It didn't help.

"When I call your name you are to come up here, take your seat, and place the hat upon your head to be sorted," Professor McGonagall instructed as she unfurled a large scroll in her hands she didn't have before. "Abbott, Hannah!"

One by one, the students were called in alphabetical order.

"Granger, Hermione!"

"Good luck," Naruto said, smiling at the girl.

"Thank you," she smiled back, albeit nervously. "I do hope we'll be in the same House."

"Me too," Naruto said.

Despite her seeming reluctance, she rushed to the stool and placed the hat over her head easily enough.

"Gryffindor!" The hat announced.

"Not Gryffindor," Ron groaned.

Naruto rolled his eyes at the boy's words but quickly returned to clapping and smiling along with the others.

The hat continued to call names until and it was shortly after the hat sorted Neville into Gryffindor, a decision Harriett slightly questioned given the hat's description of House traits, that Naruto's name was called.

"Namikaze, Naruto!"

"Well, here we go," Naruto said sounding nervous himself.

"Wait!" Harriett took hold of his arm. "W-What if we're not in the same House?"

"I'm sure we will be," Naruto spoke with a conviction that almost always set her at ease. Before the possibility of being separated for an entire term, it was one of the rare occasions in which it didn't work. "And even if we're not, we'll find a way."

Harriett watched him go with a growing pit of anxiousness in her belly, juxtaposed by the confidence her best friend displayed as he walked forward.

Naruto tried his best to steady his nervous but couldn't as he reached the stool, taking a seat with the hovering sentient piece of headwear just above his head.

"Is there anyway we can skip this part?" Naruto asked the Hat. "You can go ahead and put me in Gryffindor."

Hermione was in Gryffindor and if they were lucky, Harriett would be as well. Out of all the House descriptors, Harriett seemed to belong there the most.

"Perhaps that's where you feel you belong," the Hat acknowledged. "But to know for certain, I must be placed upon your head."

"Yeah, that's the thing. I don't want you going through my head," Naruto admitted. He didn't need their secret exposed on the very first day.

"Interesting," the Hat hummed. "Have you something to hide then, boy?"

"No," Naruto elongated the word. "I just like my privacy. We've all got our secrets, don't we? I just wanna keep mine."

"Fair point you've got there, lad," the Hat relented. "However, if you wish to be sorted, then I must be placed on your head. Know, however, that my brim is forever sealed. Not a single word of what goes on in your mind is ever extracted from I. Also, I cannot view your deepest memories or any of your secrets, less you review them whilst I'm on your head. Just your base emotions and your inner voice as you use it."

A fierce look from Professor McGonagall ushered him along.

"Fine," Naruto relented and dropped the Hat over his head, hoping dearly he would not come to regret the choice.

"Oh my," the Hat stiffened on his head immediately. His voice, no longer outwardly audible, sounded out in his mind as if it were his own or the fox's. "I sense a great and ancient power residing within you, protecting your very mind. Very interesting indeed. I also sense a great magical power within you as well, not nearly as vast as the other, but far surpassing what I've ever encountered."

"That's a, uh, a good thing, right?" Naruto thought. Maybe that meant he could use magic, but it still didn't answer his question on whether or not his chakra was the same magic everyone referenced.

"I suppose that depends entirely on how you decide to wield it," the Hat said. "Nevertheless, I believe I've seen enough."

"So… Gryffindor… right?" Naruto tried.

"You're both brave and very much loyal. No doubt you'd do well in Gryffindor, but you are also cunning, ambitious, and seek knowledge and power, both with equal fever. I can sense within you a great drive; one that will either lead you to greatness, or infamy, should you chose to follow it. I know just the House that will help you accomplish your goals, whatever they may be," the Hat continued.

"That'd be Gryffindor, right?" Naruto tried again, feeling dread knot his belly. The Hat's following words indicated otherwise.

"Slytherin!" The Sorting Hat proclaimed loudly.

Very few people clapped for him and among them, not a single person belonged to Slytherin.

"Well shit."

Bit of a shorter chapter but I felt like this was the appropriate stopping point.

The result of the poll puts Naruto in Slytherin, which I was actually hoping for because it fits more in tune with how I wanted this story to go. I won't go into that now for obvious reasons, just know this story will become more mature in content further on. I just hope you'll all accept that.

Now onto where Harriett will be placed... has already been decided. But feel free to guess!

Also, I've been playing Cyberpunk lately and though not the game I hoped it would be, it's definitely not bad. The anime on Netflix is also really good. It's giving me a few story ideas. What do you guys think, would you like to see something like that in the future?

If I do decide to write one, it won't be for a while. At least not until I finish the game, but it's a thought.

Until next time!