Months slipped by since Zain's Diagon Alley trip, the late July heat fading into the crisp September air of 1991. The time at Selwyn Manor had been a whirlwind of preparation—practicing spells with his 11-inch yew wood wand with Thestral tail hair, poring over his textbooks, and mastering his Occlumency. The grand parlor, with its silk drapes framing a polished oak table and a steady fireplace casting a warm glow, had become his sanctuary. Now, September 1st dawned, the sky overcast with a hint of autumn. Eleanor, his mother, adjusted his robes as they navigated the bustling King's Cross Station, the Muggle world oblivious to the magic beyond the barriers.
Zain hauled his trunk, his mind turning as they neared the passage between Platforms 9 and 10. He felt fortunate for the Occlumency gained through Pansy's bond—it was a fortress against Dumbledore's probing Legilimency. If the headmaster uncovered his ambition to rule the wizarding world, he'd undoubtedly erect barriers to thwart him. Zain reinforced his mental shields, vowing to keep his plans secret. He also resolved to avoid Harry Potter, whose presence would draw Dumbledore's constant attention. Better to forge his own path at Hogwarts, building a network away from that scrutiny. A study group, he mused, could be the perfect cover—nurturing talent for his future designs.
Eleanor guided him to the barrier, her voice calm.
"Walk through with confidence, Zain. I'll be right behind."
Zain pushed his cart forward, the solid wall melting into Platform 9¾. The platform erupted with activity—students embracing parents, owls hooting from cages, and the scarlet Hogwarts Express puffing steam into the air. The scent of coal mingled with the rustle of robes, the crowd a blend of anxious first-years and poised older students. As he stepped aside, Pansy Parkinson, Hannah Abbott, and Daphne Greengrass approached, their trunks in tow. Pansy's smirk was sharp, Hannah's smile shy, and Daphne's nod elegant.
"Zain, ready for the train?" Pansy asked, her tone teasing.
Hannah adjusted her bag, her voice soft.
"I'm nervous, but it's good to see you."
Daphne inclined her head, her voice smooth.
"Let's claim a compartment. Lead on."
Zain nodded, his tone welcoming.
"Glad you're here. Let's go."
They boarded the train, finding a compartment mid-car. The space was snug, with cushioned seats and a large window framing the platform. They stowed their trunks, the clatter of luggage mixing with the train's hum as it prepared to depart. Eleanor waved from the platform, her figure receding as the whistle blew. Zain settled by the window, the girls arranging themselves—Pansy across from him, Hannah beside her, Daphne near the door.
The train jolted into motion, the countryside rolling past in a blur of green. Zain's thoughts lingered on his strategy, the study group idea taking shape. These girls, with their diverse skills, could be the foundation. As the rhythm of the tracks settled, the door slid open again, revealing Hermione Granger. Her bushy hair was mussed from the platform rush, her eyes scanning the compartment. She recognized Zain and hesitated, her voice tentative.
"Zain? Is this compartment free? I'd rather not sit alone."
Zain gestured to an empty seat, his tone inviting.
"Yes, Hermione. Join us. Plenty of space."
Hermione smiled gratefully, settling next to Daphne. The group adjusted, the compartment now lively with their presence. Hermione, her curiosity piqued, leaned forward.
"This train is incredible! How does it know the route? Is it all magic?"
Zain nodded, explaining.
"It's enchanted with a route spell, managed by the Ministry. The engine follows magical cues, no driver needed."
Pansy rolled her eyes, her tone dry.
"Sounds like Gryffindor show-off magic. Probably breaks down half the time."
Hermione bristled, her voice firm.
"Gryffindor's the best house—brave and noble. That's what I've read."
Zain leaned back, his tone thoughtful.
"Not entirely. Each house has its edge. Gryffindor's courage shines, but Ravenclaw's wisdom, Hufflepuff's loyalty, and Slytherin's ambition are just as vital. With your bookish nature and questions, Hermione, Ravenclaw might be your fit. You'd excel there."
Hermione paused, her fingers tracing the edge of her seat.
"I did love Hogwarts: A History. Ravenclaw could be a good match…"
The trolley lady's knock interrupted, her voice bright.
"Anything from the trolley?"
Zain bought a stack of Chocolate Frogs and Cauldron Cakes, sharing with the group. Pansy took a Frog, her smirk returning.
"Not bad, Zain. Better than last year's sweets."
Hannah nibbled a cake, her tone quiet.
"Thank you. This helps the nerves."
Daphne accepted a Frog, her voice cool.
"A generous host, Zain. Keep it up."
As they ate, the train lurched, spilling Hannah's cake onto the floor. She blushed, fumbling to clean it, while Daphne sighed.
"Clumsy ride. Zain, you should manage us better."
The group laughed, the tension easing. Hermione, undeterred, asked another question.
"What about the houses' common rooms? Are they all unique?"
Zain nodded, his voice informative.
"Yes. Ravenclaw's is a haven of books and riddles, perfect for thinkers. Gryffindor's got a roaring fireplace for its bold crew. You'd love Ravenclaw's intellectual vibe, Hermione."
Pansy leaned in, her tone sly.
"Slytherin's the real prize—dark and strategic. You'd thrive there, Zain."
The train rolled on, the landscape shifting to rolling hills. A boy with messy hair and glasses—Harry Potter—glanced into the compartment, but Hermione, engrossed in the discussion, didn't notice. He moved on, likely to find Ron Weasley, and Zain felt a quiet satisfaction, his avoidance intact.
Hermione, after a moment's thought, spoke again.
"I think Ravenclaw suits me. Thanks, Zain, for opening my eyes."
System: Relationship with Hermione Granger increased to 20%.
System: Relationship with Hermione Granger has reached the 20% threshold. Reward—Slight Magic Power Increase.
System: Total Magical Power Level—Equivalent to a sixth-year Hogwarts student.
The compartment grew animated, Pansy debating Quidditch with Daphne, Hannah sharing a nervous smile, and the group bonding over sweets. Zain envisioned his study group taking shape, a tool to cultivate talent for his ambitions, all while his Occlumency guarded his secrets. The train neared Hogsmeade, the castle's silhouette looming through the mist.
Zain stood, his voice steady.
"Why don't we build something of our own here in Hogwarts—like a study circle where we help each other grow?"
The girls nodded, their interest clear. As the train slowed, Zain felt his plans solidify, his power growing, ready for the challenges ahead.