Chapter 96

Ilvermorny Castle was the castle that housed Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Perched majestically atop Mount Greylock, Ilvermorny Castle emerged like a timeless sentinel of magic, its presence hidden from the mundane world by layers of potent enchantments. At times, a soft, ethereal mist enveloped the castle, veiling it in an otherworldly shroud.

The castle itself, hewn from enduring granite, was a testament to wizarding craftsmanship. Its towering spires and intricate battlements soared into the sky, echoing whispers of ancient spells and legendary tales. At the heart of its façade, imposing marble statues of the revered founders, Isolt Sayre and James Steward, stood guard, their eyes forever watching, welcoming students and warding off any threat.

As the sun set, casting a golden hue upon the castle, shadows danced playfully, hinting at the countless mysteries and magic that thrived within its walls.

The grounds keeper led Alexander Phenex and Hope Mikaelson, accompanied by a group of eager first-year students, were ushered inside by their new Transfiguration teacher, Professor Pearl Sunderland. With her sharp features, flawless pale skin, and a cascade of dark curls, Professor Sunderland exuded an aura of power and knowledge. Her deep green eyes, flecked with gold, seemed to pierce through the very soul, hinting at her profound connection to the mystical arts.

Whispering to Hope, Alex said, "That's Professor Pearl Sunderland. I've heard she's as formidable in Transfiguration as Minerva McGonagall herself." Hope's eyes sparkled with intrigue upon hearing this.

Addressing the assembly, Professor Sunderland explained the houses of Ilvermorny: Horned Serpent, Wampus, Thunderbird, and Pukwudgie. She emphasized the importance of earning points for one's house through triumphs and the consequences of losing points for rule-breaking. The mention of various tournaments and awards further fueled the students' excitement and apprehension.

Noticing the curious gaze of Professor Sunderland upon them, Alex and Hope exchanged a knowing look. Being from the renowned Mikaelson family, they were no strangers to attention.

The students' chatter filled the air with speculations and wonderings about their impending sorting. Soon, Professor Sunderland returned to guide them into the castle's heart.

Inside the castle's entrance hall, the first-years were met with a circular room dominated by wooden statues representing the four houses. Above, older students observed from a wooden balcony, its design crowned by a glass cupola. The stone floor bore the intricate pattern of a Gordian Knot, symbolizing the intertwining paths of destiny. Adjacent to the hall, another room awaited, where each student would be matched with a wand, the tool and symbol of their magical journey ahead.

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the first-year students took their places around the Gordian Knot. Alex and Hope exchanged glances, both feeling some excitement.

Professor Pearl stepped forward, holding a scroll. "When I call your name, please come forward and stand onto the Gordian Knot engraved into the middle of the marble floor.," she instructed. The older students would watch in silence from the balcony on the next level, which went around the circle. The school would then wait for one of the four wooden carvings, which were in the form of each creature the four houses represented, to react.

One by one, names were called, and students were sorted into their respective houses. The room echoed with the murmurs of the older students observing from the balcony above. Every now and then, a burst of applause or a cheer would erupt from one of the houses as a new member was welcomed.

The ceremony continued, with names being called and students stepping onto the Gordian Knot. The room echoed with a mixture of tension and excitement.

"Alexander Phenex," Professor Pearl announced.

Taking a deep breath, Alex stepped onto the intricate knot engraved on the marble floor. He felt a peculiar sensation, as all four wooden carvings seemed to come alive. The Horned Serpent's gem glowed, the Thunderbird began to beat its wings, the Wampus roared, and the Pukwudgie raised its arrow.

A hushed silence fell over the room. "Well, this is rare," Professor Pearl murmured, her eyes widening slightly. "You have the privilege, Mr.Phenex, to choose your house."

Alex looked up at the balcony, feeling the weight of every eye upon him. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke, "I choose Horned Serpent."

A round of applause resonated from the Horned Serpent table as Alex made his way there, while giving Hope nod.

Next, it was Hope's turn. "Hope Mikalesom," called out Professor Pearl.

Hope approached the Gordian Knot with a mixture of anticipation and curiosity. As she stepped onto it, three of the carvings reacted almost instantly: the Horned Serpent's gem glowed brightly, the Thunderbird beat its wings, and the Wampus let out a powerful roar.

The hall was filled with whispers and murmurs. Hope looked towards Alex, who gave her an encouraging nod.

Professor Pearl smiled, "Another rare occurrence. What will you choose, Ms Mikalson?"

After a brief moment of reflection, Hope responded, "I choose Horned Serpent."

Applause and cheers erupted from the Horned Serpent table as Hope joined her new housemates and sat next to Alex, her heart swelling with a sense of excitement.

The ceremony continued, with more names called and more students sorted. The traditions of Ilvermorny echoed through the ages, as another generation of witches and wizards began their magical journey.