> Hogwarts Highlights
>  by mokaevans
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Letters
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle was reading Hogwarts: a History for what she believed was the 247th time. It might have been the 248th, but she was 99 percent certain that it wasn’t. Either way the fact remained that she had read the book a lot. In the past two weeks she’d read it even more often than usual. This was because she was expecting her letter from the prestigious school any day now. 

As the thought crossed her mind for the 64th time that day Twilight was surprised to find a tawny owl  pecking at her bedroom window. She blinked to ensure it was actually there and not some figmint of a daydream. The owl remained. Excited beyond belief she rushed to the window and grabbed the scroll from the owl’s leg, apologizing as she realized how rough she was. 

She opened the letter and drank in every word. She, Twilight Sparkle, had finally been invited to Hogwarts. This had been something she’d been waiting for her entire life. She remembered how jealous she was when Shining armor had gotten to go and she had not. Now they could both go, Albit four years apart. She was so excited, as well as a bit nervous. She wasn’t great at meeting people. Moreover her family wasn’t exactly well regarded within certain circles. Regardless the feeling of excitement far outweighed any nervousness on her part. 

She rushed down the stairs at great speed, nearly running into the kitchen counter. Startled, she forced herself to a standstill. Her parents and brother looked at her in amusement, All three had knowing grins on their faces. 

“So what you got there Twilie?” Shining asked, a teasing lilt to his voice.

“My letter to Hogwarts has arrived!” She exclaimed, not particularly caring that they had already guessed that. 

“Congratulations Twilie.” Shining grinned.

“Oh you’re going to love it honey! The Whomping willow, the forbidden forest, the great lake!” Twilight Velvet listed. 

“Now honey those places are all dangerous.” Her father Night light said sternly.

“That never stopped me.” The girl told her husband.

“That’s why you ended up in Gryffindor right? Oh I wonder what house I’ll be sorted into.” Twilight beamed.

“Twilie if you end up anywhere but Ravenclaw I’ll be surprised. “ Shining chuckled. “Besides it would even out the houses in our family.” He was referring to the fact that he had been placed in Gryffindor as well. While her father had gone to Ravenclaw.

“I guess we’ll see.” she smirked.

“Is there anything you’re nervous about?” Her father asked.

“Well...the slytherins mostly.” She admitted. She didn’t have to explain any further. The Sparkles were pure bloods. This meant that as far back as they could trace, they had only wizards in the family. Many pure bloods believed themselves to be better than others. The Sparkles did not share these beliefs. Naturally this made the others dislike their family. 

“Sweetheart if anyone calls you a blood traitor you just hold your head up high and ignore them.” Twilight’s father reassured her.

“Do you think I’ll meet some muggleborns?!” she asked excitedly. From a young age she and her brother had been taught to respect muggleborn children, as neither parent wanted their child to be elitist. This had an effect on Shining as he was open to all and willing to defend just about anyone. It’s effect on Twilight had been far greater. The idea of living without magic fascinated her and so she had developed an obsession with muggles. Not enough to be creepy, just extremely interested. 

“There are a lot of muggleborns at Hogwarts. I’m sure they’ll be happy to answer your questions. Just go easy on them.” Shining winked. Twilight smiled back sheepishly. She just got over excited sometimes. 

***
For the past week Fluttershy had been on pins and needles. She didn’t know when her letter would arrive, but she knew it was going to be any day now and the thought terrified her. She didn’t want to learn magic, she didn’t want to have anything to do with magic. Magic and all its uses scared her. She was petting Angel bunny who was enjoying the attention. In the meantime she was venting.

“It’s not that I hate my father’s side of the family, it’s just, the idea that there are spells that can petrify you, or give you wobbly knees, or make you puke up slugs, is really scary and I’d rather be a muggle like mom.” She sighed. Angel made a few noises that sounded both comforting and irate. “Yes I know there’s also a lot of good things about magic, I just don’t think they outweigh the bad things.” Angel cuddled into her. “At least magic gave me you.”

Fluttershy remembered the day her family had realized she was a witch. They had gone to the pet store to buy her an animal companion. As a meek child they had been hoping a furry friend might help her be more confident. When she had entered the store a bunch of voices had reached her ears. She wandered throughout the store just listening to the many creature’s speak, eventually she heard something different. A voice complaining about the number of carrots they had been fed today. She had glanced around until her eyes had landed on a cage containing four bunnies. It had been the smallest one complaining. 

“Don’t they feed you enough?” She asked him. The bunny explained that the other three rabbits were bigger than him and often ate his food for him. It was all he could do to get any food for himself. “That’s terrible. Do you want to come home with me?” Angel had excitedly said yes. When she had turned to tell her family she wanted him she found them staring at her. “What?”

“Fluttershy, can you talk to animals?” Her father asked.

“Yeah, is that not normal?” 

“No, I can’t speak to animals.” Her mother said. “Is it normal for a wizard to speak to animals?”

“No, it’s a very rare gift some wizards get. Extremely rare, actually.” Her father admitted. “I always wondered if you had magic, but now we know you do.” 

At the time Fluttershy did not know what that meant exactly, all she knew was it let her talk to Angel, so it must be a good thing. The older she got, the more she learned, and the more terrified she became. She wished she didn’t have to learn magic.

She was so absorbed by her worries that she jumped about a foot in the air when she heard a small tap at the window of her room. Angel made a couple of irate noises. “Sorry Angel, I didn’t mean to make you fall.” She apologized, picking him up again. She stared at the owl waiting patiently behind the glass. She didn’t want to acknowledge it. If anything she wanted to pretend it wasn’t there, but she knew full well that if she ignored the letter now she’d just get more later. She took a deep breath and approached the window. 

She knew it was silly but it felt like the moment she opened the window she would be going to Hogwarts. Like if she didn’t get her letter she’d could avoid it somehow, unfortunately this was not the case. She sighed and resigned herself to opening the window. She grabbed the letter, and thanked the owl for his time. As he flew off she sighed once more. She decided to read the letter after breakfast. 

When she entered the kitchen it was to find her family already sitting around the table. To a hand cooked breakfast. Her father was always offering to use magic to help her mother cook, but she preferred to do it on her own. She sat at the only empty chair, a plate of pancakes, eggs, and bacon already placed. She began to move her fork around in the eggs, not feeling hungry.

“Are you okay?” Her mother asked.

“It arrived.” She said briefly. That was all she needed to say. Her parents knew how nervous she was. 

“Your Hogwarts letter! What does it look like? What does it say? You must be so excited!” The series of questions was coming from her brother, Zephyr Breeze. He was younger than her, and all too eager to go to Hogwarts. To the point that he didn’t notice her worry.

“I didn’t read it.” She admitted, now moving the bacon around her plate. 

Her parents looked at each other. “Look honey we know you’re worried, but I promise Hogwarts is a wonderful place. You might make some friends.” Her father said.

“I have a friend.” She whispered.

“I know Angel is your friend, but I meant another human friend. I’m sure you can take Angel to Hogwarts.” 

“I thought you said it was only, Owls, Cats, or Toads?” 

“Those are more like guidelines. They don’t want anyone to bring something dangerous to school. Angel is a bunny, so you should be fine.” 

Fluttershy gave a small smile, at least she’d have one friend.”
***
Pinkie was bouncing excitedly around the house, when she felt something. “Twitchy nose, wobbly legs, itchy ear! Someone new is coming to visit!” Just at that moment the doorbell went off. Pinkie jumped into action, running as fast as she could. “I’ll get it!” She exclaimed as she slid down the bannister.

“Pinkie I just polished that!” Limestone complained. 

Pinkie landed on her feet perfectly and rushed to the door. When she opened it a man stood there, but something about him was off. It took her a moment to put her finger on it, but eventually she realized he was her height. He had fluffy white hair with a large bald spot. He was wrinkly, with a beard to match his hair, and he wore green robes. His hair reminded her of cotton candy. Pinkie licked her lips, before forcing her brain back to the topic at hand. 

“Are you Miss. Pinkamena Diane Pie?” He asked in a squeaky voice.

“Yes Mister Squeaky voice, Cotton candy hair!” Pinkie exclaimed. She heard her parents step up behind her.

“What dost thou want with our daughter?” Her father, Ingenious, asked.

“I am here to give your daughter a letter.” Mister Squeaky voice replied, handing Pinkie a piece of rolled up paper. It was like no letter she’d ever seen. She broke the wax crest and read over the letter, her smile growing wider the further she read. 

“So I’m a witch and you want me to go to a magical school for that?!” She exclaimed.

“Pinkamena, you know magic dost not exist.” Her mother, Cloudy, reminded her firmly.

“I can show you proof magic is real.” Mister Squeaky voice replied, pulling out an ornate stick.

“Listen Mister-” Her father began trailing as he realized they’d yet to ask the stranger’s name.

“Flitwick, Professor Flitwick.”  replied placing a cup on his hand.

“We don’t have time to indulge you, so if you’ll just-” Before he could finish his sentence the man had turned the cup into a bird. Her parents stumbled back in fear. 

“What sorcery is this?” Her mother asked, looking terrified.

“As I said, magic. Your daughter is a witch Mr.Pie. If she does not learn to control her powers there could be grave consequences. “

Her parents looked at each other, stuck in a quandary, on the one hand Pinkie had magical powers and she needed to control them, on the other they weren’t keen on sending their daughter to a school of unknown quality. It was then that her sister Maud arrived.

“I think she should go. Remember when Grandma died and Pinkie knew about it before we received the call? The time she knew the stairs were going to collapse a week before they did? What about the time she knew our distant relatives were coming for a surprise visit? I mean in hindsight it's obvious she has some ability.” Maud explained.

Something in Maud’s words clicked with her parents. “Having a gift and not using it,is  the same as having no gift at all.” Her father nodded.

“She must have these abilities for some reason.” Her mother agreed.

They turned to Professor Flitwick. “Very well, we will allow our daughter to go to this school.”  Pinkie was excited to hear this, she was going to learn magic!

***
Rarity paced about her room impatiently. She had waited eleven years to receive her letter and she didn’t want to wait any longer. Her parents had always told her to be patient. That magic wasn’t as necessary to live as she seemed to think. Well she didn’t agree to that. What was the point of being a witch if she couldn’t perform magic? 

This was the year though. She was going to go to Hogwarts and learn magic. She would be able to do amazing things. Levitating objects was something she was particularly excited for. Her sewing would be so much faster if she didn’t have to do it  by hand. She glanced at the window again. Still no sign of the owl holding her letter. 

She flung herself to the bed dramatically, turning to her cat. “Oh Opal Wopal! How long must this wait be? I am in anguish over the amount of time my letter is taking!” She sighed, “You don’t suppose they forgot me?” Her cat didn’t answer. “My family has been going to Hogwarts for generations. All of my ancestry is magical. So surely they wouldn’t have forgotten right?” Once more the cat had no answer for her. “Oh woe is me! For it is that I, Rarity, am stuck here waiting for a letter that refuses to come!” She cried, splaying dramatically on her bed. It was then she heard a tap. 

“Opal you know you're not supposed to tap on the window.”  She groused. The tapping sound was heard again. “Opal for heaven's sake darling can’t you see I’m attempting to voice my impatience in a dramatic fashion?”  She heard the tap a third time.” Opal honestly, I don’t know why you're being so unruly Can’t you just-” She turned to talk to her cat only to see it was an owl that had been knocking at her window. An owl with a scroll tied to it’s leg. A scroll with a recognizable crest upon it.

It took all she had not to rush to the bird and grab the letter from it. She would remain calm. She approached the bird delicately, opening the window to and letting the bird land on her sill. She then carefully took the letter, thanked the bird and closed the window. She broke the seal on the scroll and read the words she’d wanted to see for some time. She was invited to Hogwarts school of witchcraft and Wizardry. She had to stop herself from shrieking. She would not lose her composure. She walked downstairs in her normal fashion, meeting her parents and sister in the living room. 

“Hey there honey! Anything happen today?” Her father asked. It was this question that broke through her calmness.

“Today is historic! For today I,Rarity, have received my letter to Hogwarts!” She shrieked.

“That’s great dear.” Her father congratulated her.

“We’re happy for you.” Her mother agreed.

“I wanna go!” Sweetie Belle complained.

“Sweetie this is my moment! I’ve waited eleven years to go, and you will have to do the same.” She huffed, a bit miffed that her sister was trying to make this about her. She ignored her sister’s pout. This was the best day of her life and she was not going to let her ruin it. 

“Just remember magic isn’t everything.” Her mother said. She sighed like she’d never heard that before.

***
Rainbow couldn’t wait until her letter arrived. She wanted to go to Hogwarts to learn spells, and more importantly learn to fly. She was so sick of toy brooms, sure she had gotten new ones over the years but none of them went very high. When she got to Hogwarts she’d be able to use a real broom! 

Once she learned how to fly she’d be able to play Quidditch! Sure football was nice but Quidditch was next level. She wanted to be a chaser on her house team. Then once she graduated she would join the most amazing Quidditch team ever! She was thinking of the Wonderbolts of course. 

She was so busy daydreaming she didn’t notice when the owl tapped on her door. The owl tapped a second time, and then a third. The owl seemed to think he’d put up with this long enough as it gave a loud hoot alerting the girl to its presence. Rainbow chuckled sheepishly. She opened the window. “Sorry little guy. You can leave that for me.” She took the letter from its leg and the owl flew off.

She looked over her letter. It was wordy and way too complicated so she just focused on the important part. She was going to Hogwarts. She ran down stairs to practice flying on her toy broomstick. Before she could leave, she heard her mother squeal. The next thing she knew she was being hugged by both parents. “You got your letter!” 

“That’s my girl!” Her father exclaimed. “You’re gonna be the best witch Hogwarts has ever seen!” 

Rainbow rolled her eyes. She was cocky but not that cocky. Best witch ever? No, she wasn’t an egghead. Best quidditch player ever? That was more her speed. Besides her dad hadn’t even known about magic until he met her mom. What did he know? 

“Great, I’m gonna go practice my flying.” She told them, attempting to move out of their grip. 

“Oh I just know you’re going to be amazing at flying class!” Her mother exclaimed.

“At all your classes!” Her father agreed.

“I wonder what house you’ll be in? You fit them all so well!” 

“Yeah, I think of myself as a regular Ravenclaw.” She quipped.

“Well maybe not Ravenclaw, but you’re ambitious like a Slytherin, Loyal like a Hufflepuff, and Brave like a Gryffindor.” 

“Please I’m not gonna end up in Hufflepuff. That house is lame.” Her mother pouted at her, having been a Hufflepuff. “Well lamer than the other houses?” She said questioningly. Her mother gave a tentative smile.

“Whatever house you're in will be lucky to have you.” Her father said in an attempt to smooth things over. He knew how defensive his wife was of her house. 

“Well duh, I’m awesome and I’d like to become more awesome, so could you let me go practice my flying now?” 

“Sure honey, just remember if you do end up in Hufflepuff there’s no shame, it’s a great house!” Her mother said, Rainbow winced, okay she wasn’t forgiven just yet. 

Having been given permission Rainbow rushed out the door to practice. That was another thing she’d love about Hogwarts. It was a way to get away from her overbearing parents.

***
Applejack had known England would be different when their family had moved there after inheriting a bigger orchard in that country. She knew that they used a lot of different words for things, and that there’d be slang she wouldn’t understand. 

She had not expected to find a short, pudgy woman dressed like Halloween had come several months early. The woman was wearing orange-brown robes, and a matching hat that looked like that of a witch. She smiled at her aimably but Applejack was still wary. She was pretty sure this was not normal dress, even for England. “Can I help you?” 

“Perhaps, are you Applejack Smith?” The woman asked. 

“Yes, just so ya know my little sis, Big bro, and Granny are all here with me.” She told her. To tell the truth she wasn’t sure the woman was right in the head. If she was here to kidnap her this would make her less confident. 

“I’d like to speak with them too. May I come in?” 

Applejack was saved from having to make a decision by the arrival of Granny. “Now what's all this about?”

“Mrs. Smith I am Professor Sprout. I’d like to talk with you about Applejack.” 

“Well okay, but if this is some stunt to get us ta buy somthin’ we’re not interested.”  Granny said firmly.

“Oh nothing like that.” Professor Sprout followed the two into the living room. Applebloom and Big Mac were already there, having heard the door open. The teacher settled on the couch and handed Applejack a letter. 

Doubtful, she grabbed the letter and read through it, getting more and more angry with each word. When she finished she glared at the professor. “This isn't funny.” 

“I’ll say, it’s amazing!” Applebloom exclaimed, having read the letter over her shoulder.

“Applebloom, this is clearly some kind of elaborate prank. It could even be a Pyramid scheme.” Applejack sighed. “Magic doesn’t exist.” 

“It does Miss Smith, and I will show you.” Applejack raised a brow skeptically as the Professor pulled out a stick. She pointed the stick at a bookcase across the room. “Accio book!” A book flew through the air and into her hands. Applebloom laughed happily but Applejack was less than convinced. 

“Miss. Sprout, I’ve seen people pull quarters out of someone’s ear. Your gonna have ta do better than that.” She refused to call her Professor until she knew this woman was a teacher.

“Alright then,” She pointed her stick at Applejack. ”Wingardium Leviosa.” The next thing Applejack knew she was floating in the air, high above the ground. She was a bit ashamed with herself as she let out a yelp. 

“Put me down! Flyin’ ain’t natural!” She yelled.

“Do ya believe in magic now Applejack!” Her sister exclaimed.

“I don’ care if it’s magic or not! Put me down!” With that the Professor set her lightly on the floor.  “Look I don’ know what that was but it can’t be magic.”

“I dunno Applejack. Do ya remember when you were six an’ your first apple tree died?” Granny asked her.

“Yeah, I was upset. I went outside and cried my heart out when I discovered it was dead. I wished it would come back to life.”

“Yeah an’ the next day it was growin’ faster than a coyote chasing a roadrunner.” 

“Yep.” Her brother added.

“Well that’s true, but ya’ll don’t really think that was magic, do ya?” Her family nodded. 

“If it makes you feel better you can bring your family with you when you get school supplies.” The professor offered.

Applejack sighed. “Alright, but I still think this is a buncha malarkey.”  Magic was real? Yeah right.
> Wands
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

They had arrived at the ally and then Professor. Fitwick had made the wall open! Diagon Alley, as her escort called it, was amazing. There were so many shops and people wearing funny clothes. 

First they had gotten her books, which Pinkie was a bit disappointed with, at least they were magic books. Then they had gotten her potion supplies. After that they went to a robe shop where she had to hold still for what felt like forever. Every time she fidgeted the seamstress would glare at her. Pinkie had tried to liven the mood with small talk, but the owner seemed to want her to be quiet. 

Professor Flitwick had decided to reward her patience after that. He took her to a sweets shop. They had all kinds of cool sweets, like chocolate frogs that came to life, and pumpkin pastries, but by far her favorite was Bertie Bott's every flavor beans. They had so many fun flavors, like lawn clippings, earwax, or toothpaste. Of course the normal flavors were good too. 

"Miss. Pie slow down!" The professor's squeaky voice called after her. Hearing these words Pinkie came to a halt. She waited a few seconds for the short man to catch up with her. When he arrived he was out of breath. "Miss. Pie, I'm not as youthful as you."

"Sorry I was just excited!" She exclaimed. 

"regardless we are here."  He told her.

"Yay! we're here!" She blinked in confusion. "Um, where is here?" 

"Ollivander's. It's a wand shop." He replied.

Pinkie looked the small, shabby looking shop over. It didn't look like what she'd expect a wand shop to look like, but she knew that didn't matter. Maud was loads of fun and she didn't look it. 

The Professor opened the door for her and she stepped inside. The shop was as small as it looked from the outside. High shelves filled the area, upon each was row after row of boxes. Those must be were the wands are.  Pinkie felt her nose twitch and turned just as the shop owner arrived. 

He was an old man with a sparkle in his eyes. His hair reminded Pinkie of dandelion fluff, and she wondered if she could make a wish on him. Just as she was about to ask this question he spoke up. "A new student looking for a wand. I'll do my best for you Miss.-" He paused.

"Pinkie! My name is Pinkie, and I'm super excited to get a wand. Do they glow or light up? How do you know when you've found the right one? What-" Pinkie was cut off from her rambling.

"Miss. Pie there's no need to ask so many questions." The professor told her.

"On the contrary, I find Miss. Pinkie's energetic nature delightful." Ollivander said. "Now which is your wand arm?"

"My what?" Pinkie asked.

"Your dominant hand Miss. Pinkie." He explained. 

"I dunno. I'm ambiwhatchamacallit." 

"We'll do your right hand then." With that the shop owner began to search the shelves. Meanwhile a tape measure was measuring her by itself. It seemed to measure everything, from her hair to her feet to the space between her eyebrows. Eventually Ollivander came back. "That'll do." The tape measure dropped to the floor. "Here, silver lime and Phoenix feather, 11 and a quarter-inch, springy."

Pinkie took the wand and waved it. immediately the wand maker took it from her hands. "No, no, not that one.  Alder and dragon heartstring, 12 inches, flexible." Pinkie tried the wand and it was snatched away immediately replaced with another one. "Cherry and unicorn hair, 12 and a half inches, swishy." 

This went on for a few minutes. Pinkie felt like she was trying every wand in the store, really it was only six more, and just wanted something to happen. Searching for a wand wasn't supposed to be so boring. Then Ollivander handed her a long wand. " Dogwood and dragon heartstring, 13 and a quarter-inch surprisingly swishy." 

Pinkie shrugged and waved the wand. Suddenly the shop owners hair turned green. Pinkie laughed, but a stern look from the Professor gave her pause. "Sorry, I guess that wasn't it either. "

"No Miss. Pinkie this is your wand." The wand maker said with a chuckle, his eyes sparkling. "Dogwood wands have quirky and mischievous natures. They're playful and like an owner that can provide excitement and fun. I believe your wand was playing a prank." 

"So my wand's like me?" Pinkie asked.

"Precisely Miss. Pinkie." 

Pinkie was glad her wand liked to have fun.

***

Fluttershy walked slowly down the street, trying to avoid eye contact. She and her father had arrived in the alley several hours ago. Zephyr had complained about not getting to go, but her father had told him she was nervous enough without her over eager younger brother. 

They had gone to the book store first. Fluttershy had been okay with this. They were just books and surely they wouldn't have anything dangerous here. She had picked up her copy of 'Fantastic Beasts and where to find them' and began to read it as she picked up her other books. If there was one thing she sort of liked about the magic world it was the animals. 

Then they had gone to the potions shop to collect her cauldron and phials. After that she had gotten to go to the pet shop. She enjoyed chatting with the animals, though a number of owl wanted to eat Angel. In response the bunny had said some not very nice things. Fluttershy had apologized on his behalf but didn't really blame him. 

Now she was going to Ollivanders. The prospect terrified her. What if her wand didn't listen to her? What if she couldn't find one? Did she want to find one? Maybe if she couldn't find a wand she wouldn't have to learn magic? Her father placed a hand on her shoulder. "You don't need to worry. There's a wand for you." 

She sighed as she viewed the shop. It looked dusty and worn with peeling letters on the front. Her father opened the door and gave her a reassuring look. Tentatively she entered. The inside was small, with tall shelves holding boxes as far as the eye could see. There was a tension in the atmosphere, or maybe it was her. 

"Good Afternoon." A voice called. Startled, Fluttershy jumped behind her father hiding her head. Her father was shaking too and it gave her some comfort. At least she wasn't alone in her surprise. 

"Hello- Ollivander." Mr. Shy breathed. He sounded nervous, though it was clear he was trying to calm  down. 

"Mr.Shy good to see you again. I remember your wand. Rowan and unicorn hair, nine inches, pliant I believe." the shopkeeper recited.

"Yes, I brought my daughter to get her wand. She's starting Hogwarts this year." 

Tentatively Fluttershy peered over her father's shoulder at the man who owned the shop. He was elderly with gray eyes and a stare that felt like it was boring into her soul. She shuddered diving back behind her father with a whimper. "Sorry she's a little shy, but as kind and gentle a soul you could meet." Her father told him

"I see." Ollivander said knowingly. "Which is your wand arm?" 

"R-right." She whispered, holding it out for him. After the first few measurements the tape began to measure her on its own. Ollivander flitted about the shop looking through the boxes eventually he called for the tape to stop. It dropped to the floor from where it had  been measuring her hair. "Try this, Apple and Dragon heartstring, 9 and 3 quarter inches, bendy." 

She picked up the wand dubiously. She had not held it longer than a few seconds when it was snatched away from her. "No, what was I thinking with that core? Let's try Alder and unicorn hair 10 inches." Once again she had only held it a few moments before he took it away. So it went with her trying several wands, most of which were taken before she'd even cast a spell. Just as she was beginning to lose hope he handed her a relatively short wand. "Willow and unicorn hair, 9 inches, supple." 

The wand felt warm and comforting as she lifted it. She gave it a wave and it unleashed a torrent of yellow and pink sparks. Ollivander looked proud. "Miss. Shy a willow wand had selected you. You have great potential."

Fluttershy blinked. "I do?"

"Yes willow wands choose those with great potential, usually with some sort of insecurity. This wand will take you as far as you could wish."

She looked at the wand in her hand. It made her feel warm and safe. For the first time since she'd entered the shop she smiled.

***

Thus far Rarity's shopping trip had gone reasonably well. They had first stopped off for parchment and quills, then they had gotten her books. This was followed by a trip to the apothecary for her potions supplies. She had been a bit grossed out by the ingredients. The body parts of animals among other things, but it was a small price to pay to learn magic.  

After that they went to Madam Malkin's. Rarity had mixed feelings about the experience. On the one hand she was getting a first hand experience of what tailoring clothes was like. On the other, they were so very plain. Simple black robes that stood out in no way. They were loose and thus unable to flatter her.  

This is what she'd be wearing during classes, and so far as she knew accessories were not allowed. Perhaps she could wear some earrings and hide them behind her hair when the professors were looking. She had to stand out somehow. She could even make the earrings herself. 

The only thing truly annoying about the trip was Sweetie Belle. She was put out. This was her time, her moment, her chance to learn magic! She'd really wanted to experience the whole thing without her sister tagging along. Her parents had insisted however, saying it would be a good experience for her. Rarity knew better than to argue. Her parents had developed a cheerful ambiguity that she used whenever she tried to get her way. She would much rather have them yell. 

This was the moment she'd been waiting all trip for. She was finally going to get her wand. The object that would allow her to use magic. The thing that truly separated wizards from muggles. Honestly Rarity didn't have a problem with muggles but she didn't want to live like one. 

She frowned as she looked over the wand shop. It was a small drab shop, with peeling gold lettering across the front, the paint had long since faded. Then there was the window display. Two shabby curtains surrounded a single pillow with a wand on it. The entire display had a thick layer of dust upon it. 

Rarity balked, the window display was the first thing a customer saw. It gave them their first impression and if they liked it they would come in. Of course that was one of the advantages of being one of Wizardkind's most renown wand shops. You didn't have to be fancy, people would buy your product based on reputation alone. 

"Ohh! Let me see! I wanna see!" She heard her sister's squeaky voice from behind her. She sighed irritatedly and her parents exchanged a glance. 

"Why don't we go get ice cream Sweetie Belle?" Her mother asked. 

"Okay!" She agreed much to Rarity's relief. Now without her annoying distraction, she'd get her wand. 

The interior was not much better. The shop was small, with only a single spindly chair in a corner. The rest of the shop was filled with shelves, upon which sat many boxes. Boxes Rarity knew had wands in them.  She barely managed to stop a squeal from exiting her mouth. 

"Good afternoon." She jumped back into her father, who chuckled at her good-naturedly. Feeling a bit embarrassed she straightened herself quickly.

"Pardon me," She blushed looking anywhere but at the elderly man who looked dashing nonetheless. He had silver eyes and she enjoyed their hue. "Good sir you startled me."

"He has a tendency to do that." Her father laughed. " How are you doing Oillivander?" 

"Well enough Mr. Flanks. I remember your wand Alder and unicorn hair, 9 and a half inches Pliant I believe?" The wandmaker asked, 

"Just Hondo please, and yes. You're really good at this Ollivander." Her father complimented. 

Ollivander turned to her. "Which is your wand arm?" He asked.

"Right." Rarity informed him and at once a tape measure began to measure her. The shopkeeper moved about the shop gathering boxes of wands aplenty. After about a minute he called for the measuring to stop. He handed her a wand.

"Right then Chestnut and dragon heartstring, 12 inches, supple." Rarity took the wand into her hand, but before she could wave it even once it was taken from her. "No that core isn't for you. What about Hornbeam and phoenix feather, 9 and a half inches rigid." Again she took the wand and again it was removed before she'd the chance to wave it.

"No,no. Pear and unicorn hair 10 and a fourth inches, pliant. " The process repeated itself for what felt like forever. Being given a wand before having snatched from her grasp almost instantly. It was enough to drive her mad. Just when she was about to ask the shopkeep if he intended to even give her a wand, she was handed one.

It felt good in her hands. "Elm and unicorn hair, 10 inches, unbending. " He held the wand aloft and with the utmost confidence waved it. Stream of purple and silver exited the wand. It looked fabulous. 

"I ought to have tried an Elm wand first. They tend to favor those with presence and a certain native dignity. They're sophisticated and can create the most elegant of spells. Perfect for one such as you Miss. Flanks. "

Rarity beamed, she finally had a wand. She'd finally be able to do magic! Best of all the wand was perfect for a designer. It had been worth the wait.

***

Rainbow was weaving through the crowd to get to the wand shop. She was so ready for that! Today had been okay but there had been a lot of boring things. They had to get her books, and potion supplies. None of which were very interesting. 

The most agonizing part was getting her robes. It had taken forever, she kept getting antsy, she hated holding still, and the owner had not been very happy with her. Everytime she moved the tailor would move her back into place. At one point she had asked why it was taking so long and the woman had muttered, 'it would take so long if you'd hold still.'  To which she had replied. 'I wouldn't have trouble staying still if you moved faster.' Needless to say they were both glad when it was done. 

After that her parents told her she could go wherever she wanted. So she finally got to go to Quality Quidditch supplies. They had the nimbus 2000 in the window. A large group of boys about her age were blocking it but Rainbow was not deterred. She was going to she the broom in all its glory, and not from the bad of a large crowd. It had taken some doing but eventually she had managed to squeeze her way through them. 

It was so sleek-looking. It hung in the window proudly. Like it knew it was the fastest broom so far. The bristles curved from the back seamlessly. Rainbow sat back and admired it. Not for too long though as another boy pushed her out-of-the-way. Rainbow wanted to be annoyed by this but she had no room to talk. 

They had gone inside and looked over all the brooms. None were as cool as the nimbus but they were all cooler than her toy brooms. She also saw plenty of balls, the Quaffle was practically begging her to pick it up, but she didn't get to touch any. Her parents told her they'd love to get her a broom but she wasn't allowed one until next year. Rainbow was put out but had been more than willing to accept the catching gloves they bought her in the meantime. 

Back in the present she nearly passed the wand shop. It was so small and drab. Not that Rainbow really cared what the shop looked like. That just made it hard to spot, especially when you were running as fast as Rainbow was. She barely managed to screech to a halt. 

She began tapping her foot impatiently. She couldn't go in without her parents. They had the money. She shifted her weight and sighed. Why did adults have to be so slow? More importantly, why was it when she didn't want her parents around they showed up out of nowhere, yet now they were taking forever? It didn't make sense.  She heard the heavy breathing of her parents behind her. "What took so long?"

"Sorry we couldn't keep up." her father gasped.

"Which totally makes sense! Our daughter is so good at running I bet no one could keep up with her!" Her mother cheered.

Rainbow rolled her eyes and entered the shop. It was very small, the only furniture, apart from one small chair in the corner, was shelf after shelf of small boxes. Rainbow was so distracted by the number of the things that she didn't notice when the wandmaker appeared. "Good afternoon." 

Startled, Rainbow moved backwards quickly. She ran into a shelf knocking several boxes off of it. "My bad! I'll help pick those up!" She apologized, moving to do so. 

"No matter." The man said with a good-natured chuckle in his throat. He waved his wand and the boxes flew back onto the shelf in an instant. Rainbow took the opportunity to look at him . He was old, with wild hair and strange sliver eyes. 

"Hey Ollivander! It's been way too long! I got my wand like forever ago." Her mother grinned. 

"Ah yes. Miss. Whistles, I remember Sycamore  and Dragon Heartstring  11 and a quarter-inch, quite flexible RIght?" He asked, though Rainbow could see he knew he was right.

"You got it! Today to get to give our daughter her wand! When she's famous in the future you'll be able to brag." Her mother said.

"Yeah our daughter is going to be the greatest witch Hogwarts had ever seen!" Her father cheered. Rainbow heaved a sigh. 

"Well then we'd best not wait any longer." He turned to her. "Which is your wand arm?" 

"Right." Rainbow answered easily. Ollivander began to measure her, though after the first few, she noticed the tape started doing that by itself. The shop owner was gathering a large number of wands for her to try, something that Rainbow couldn't help but smirk at. Eventually he called for the tape measure to stop and it dropped from where it was measuring the space between her toes. 

"Try this Cedar and unicorn hair, 11 and a half inches, springy." Rainbow took the wand and waved it, nothing happened. "alright then, English Oak and phoenix feather, 10 and one-quarter inch. Rigid" She held the wand but this time Ollivander took it from her before she had yet to wave it. "No not that core, what about Spruce and dragon heartstring, 9 and three-quarter inches, supple." 

So it went with Rainbow trying any number of wands. Well she felt like it was a lot but it was considerably less than her brain thought. Usually she'd wave it and nothing would happen, though on one particular occasion she did turn her mother's socks red. Eventually she was handed the right wand.

"Ebony and dragon Heartstring, 12 and a half inches,  slightly springy." The wand felt good in her hand, warm and strong. Rainbow waved it and a flurry of sparks in all the colors of her hair erupted from it. "Well Miss. Dash it seems you are a true individual, Ebony wands prefer the company of those with the courage to be themselves. They are nonconformists." He told her.

Rainbow nodded. "Um Mr. Ollivander, why is my wand so long? I thought it was related to height?"

The wandmaker chuckled. "While height does play a role, I find that longer wands are based on the size of a witch or wizard's personality."

"So my wand is long because I'm awesome?" Rainbow grinned. 

"You could say that yes." Rainbow was glad her wand reflected that.

***

Obviously this was not Twilight's first trip to Diagon alley. She'd been here every school year her brother got to go to Hogwarts. So she was familiar with the sights and sounds. That said it was still exciting. This was the first time she'd be going to get her own school supplies. 

They started at the parchment and quill store. Twilight bought the amount she'd need for the school year, then half that more just in case. She also got a number of different quills.  After that they went to the bookstore. Twilight technically already had all the books for the school year, since she'd already been giving all of Shining's old books a long time ago. So really they were going for Shining's supplies but that didn't mean she didn't pick up seven or eight books for herself. She wanted to buy more but her parents pointed out they needed to save some money for other things.

After that they had gone to get her potion supplies. Twilight couldn't wait to use them. She was going to enjoy carefully measuring the ingredients down to the exact amount. They stopped by Eeylops owl emporium for some treats to give Owlicious,

Then they went to get her robes. She held still for the seamstress, who told her she was doing well. Certainly better than other family members she could list. She had then given both her mother and Shining a pointed look.

Now they were headed for Ollivanders. Unlike most of the other shops she'd not been in the wand shop more than once. Shining took good care of his wand, so there hadn't been a need to. Since it had been so long she didn't remember what the inside looked like, but she knew the outside well enough.

She stared at the shop in awe. It was small and faded with peeled lettering reading out the name. She heard a chuckle from beside her. "Well aren't you going to go in Twilie?" Shining asked. 

She blushed. "Well you can't blame me they've been making wands for thousands of years! It's practically a historic landmark!" Family chuckled as they entered the store. Twilight stared at it all. Shelf upon shelf of wands, each uniquely made. The wand she got would bond with her. They would be meant for each other. She'd heard all about the comfort using one's own wand brought. 

"Good afternoon." Twilight jumped a bit as did her father. Her mother and Shining remained unfazed. 

"Ollivander! Still making the surprise entrances I see. I hope you keep doing them. The adrenaline rush is potent!" Her mother told him. Twilight took the opportunity to look him over. He was elderly with silvery eyes that stared into her. She was pretty sure he was using a passive form of legilimency on her. It was intrusive and she was sure he needed it to narrow down what wands to use on her. 

"Ah, Mrs. Sparkle, I remember your wand well. Cypress and  Dragon heartstring, 11 and three quarter inches, surprisingly swishy." He recited.

"You always impress me with your ability to remember everyone's wands." Her father complimented. 

"I remember yours too. Walnut and unicorn hair, 9 and a half inches, reasonably supple." He told him. The wandmaker turned to her. "And you must be Twilight Sparkle. I've been expecting you."

Twilight found it hard to speak for a second. The Ollivander was talking to her! He knew who she was! "I-I I've been wanting you to pair me with my wand ever since Shining got his! I'm so happy right now! I've read all about wand woods and what each one likes. I have your chocolate frog card! I've always wanted to experience the bond between a witch and her wand!" She paused for breath and realized she'd just been ranting. Her family chuckled good-naturedly. She blushed but Oillivander's eyes sparkled.

"It's always a pleasure to meet someone versed in wandlore Miss. Sparkle. Now, which is your wand hand?"  He asked.

"Right," Twilight said confidently holding her arm out so he could begin measuring. The first two he did on his own but then it began to move by itself. As Ollivander gathered wands he talked to her. "I remember your brother's wand. Blackthorn and Phoenix feather, 10 and three-quarter inches, slightly yielding. Wand of a warrior that."  Her brother looked proud.

He handed her a wand. "Alright Walnut and dragon heartstring, twelve inches, supple." She waved the wand and a nearby bookcase set alight. He quickly put it out. "Clearly not Dragon heartstring." He muttered. "try beech and unicorn hair, 11 and a quarter inches, pliable." This time nothing happened. "Okay not that, how about. Vine and unicorn hair, 10 inches, flexible." This time he took the wand from her almost immediately.

So it went wand after wand. Nothing was happening, and Twilight was concerned. Of course she could tell from the look in OIllivander's eyes that he was enjoying the challenge. She felt like she would enjoy the challenge too, were she a wand maker. So while she was a bit concerned she knew the wandmaker was going to feel immense satisfaction once she got her wand. 

The moment it touched her palm she knew it was the one. "Larch and Phoenix feather 10 and a half inches, quite bendy." A rush of power filled her. Suddenly she felt like she could do any spell she wanted so long as she studied and tried hard enough. She waved the wand and a flurry of purple and pink sparks exited it. She beamed. 

"Miss. Sparkle you are a gifted witch indeed. Larch wands choose only those of hidden talents and unexpected effects. Often a witch or wizard will never realize their full potential until they are paired with this wand. Once they make the match they are exceptional." He explained.

Twilight paused a moment. She let out a shriek of happiness.

***

At this point Applejack was positive it wasn't a prank. That didn't mean she wasn't suspicious but she couldn't see a set up this elaborate for a prank. Unless they were on some kind of reality show? Maybe but she doubted it.

The day had started with Miss.Sprout taking them to a pub called the leaky cauldron. Oddly enough it seemed her family couldn't see the pub unless she touched them, though Applebloom claimed the air looked a bit different there. 

They had gone to the back of the pub, where a brick wall was made to move. Applejack had to admit these were some amazing special effects. Then they went to a bank and Miss. Sprout took out money for supplies. 

They went to get quill and parchment paper. Why anyone would use a quill and inkwell over a pen was beyond her. Then they got her books, which all had strange titles. Honestly who was writing these? Spells, herbs and fungi, history. Actually that last one was normal. Applejack had to admit she liked reading the plant book. Then they went to get potion supplies. She was put off by the jarred eyeballs, felt like they were staring at her. 

She was then fitted for her robes. Applejack hated holding still, but she also knew these things went faster if you did as you were told. That said she still occasionally twitched, much to the tailor's annoyance. It was all so complicated. Could still be a pyramid scheme though. If Miss. Sprout asked them for money she'd tell her family not to give her any.

Apparently they were taking her to get her wand next. Applejack rolled her eyes, if this was real, somehow, the wand shop might convince her. After all, how was she gonna produce magic? 

The shop was small and dingy. It had peeled faded lettering across the front spelling out what the shop was. Applebloom giggled from beside her. "Don't get yer hopes up. This could still be a bunch of applesauce."

Her sister rolled her eyes. "Applejack, what more proof do ya need? We saw a wall move!"

"Plenty of castles have secret passages Applebloom." she reminded her. 

"But this ain't a castle!" Applebloom pouted. 

Granny Smith chuckled. "Don't you worry Applebloom. Yer sister'll come around once she's the one usin' a wand." 

"Can we just get this over with?" She sighed.

"Right, the shop is a bit small, so I'm not sure you can all fit inside. I suggest you bring one family member in with you." Miss. Sprout said.

"Big Mac?" Applejack asked.

"Yep." He told her. They nodded at each other and entered the shop. It was as small on the inside as it was on the outside. The majority of the space was taken up by shelves full of small boxes. A spindly chair sat in the corner. 

"Good afternoon." A voice said. Applejack jumped out of her skin but managed to avoid breaking anything. Big Mac wasn't so lucky as he let out a low gasp and fell onto the chair, breaking it. 

"Sorry." He told the man. Applejack took him in. He was clearly old, with silvery eyes that seemed to pierce through her soul. She shuddered. 

"Quite alright." He told them using his wand to fix the broken chair. Applejack couldn't think of a way they'd do that without magic. That didn't mean there wasn't one. "Hello Professor Sprout. Escorting a muggleborn?" 

"Yes, this is Miss. Smith. She will be attending Hogwarts come September." Miss Sprout told him. 

"Splendid!" He turned to Applejack. "Which is your wand arm?" 

"My what now?" She asked.

"Your dominant hand." He explained.

"My apple pickin' hand? That's be my right." She said holding it out. Ollivander began to measure her body. "So uh, how does this work exactly?"

"I'm glad you asked Miss. Smith."  He began to move around the store and Applejack noticed the tape measure was still moving around her. She examined it closely, trying to see if their were any wires but she found none. "You see the wand chooses the Witch or Wizard. When you find your match it will be the one meant for you" Applejack wasn't exactly sure how a stick could choose her. Oillivander called for the tape measure to stop and it dropped from where it was trying to measure the width of her freckles. 

"Try this. Rowan and Unicorn hair, 11 inches, flexible." She waved the stick and of course nothing happened. 

"I feel dumb." She told him. 

"Never mind that, we'll find the right one. Ah what about Poplar and dragon heartstring, 10 and a quarter-inch, brittle." Once again nothing happened. "Ash and Phoenix feather, 9 and a half inches, ridged." So it went Applejack tried stick after stick, feeling dumber and dumber as time went on. Just as she was about to tell them she was sick of this nonsense, he handed her a wand. "Black walnut and Phoenix feather, 9 and three quarter inches, unyielding."

This stick felt different. it was warm in her hand almost like a mother's hug. She felt comforted by it. As strange as that was she felt, more complete? She waved the wand and a flurry of orange and red sparks exited it.  "Interesting. Most Interesting." He said.

"What's interesting?" She asked.

"black walnut will only work for a witch or wizard with good instincts and powerful insight. The interesting part is, they have a quirk. They are abnormally attuned to inner conflict, if you are unable or unwilling to be honest with yourself or others, it won't work well for you, To use this wand properly you have to be sincere and self aware. That one of your age would get this wand is rare indeed." He told her.

Applejack stared at the sti- wand, She didn't think any amount of special effect could make her feel the way she felt when holding it. So magic was real. Applejack beamed brightly. This was amazing. Guess she'd have to start calling her Professor Sprout now
> Departure part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rainbow was feeling a mix of excitement and resentment. Excitement because she was finally on platform 9 3/4 heading for hogwarts. Resentment because she was sandwiched between herr parents who were currently crying their eyes out. 
"We're so proud of you!" Her father exclaimed, hugging her tightly.
"I just can't believe it's already time!" Her mother agreed.
"We're going to miss you!" They cried in unison, tears streaming down their faces.
Rainbow noticed a number of wizards looking. "Mom, dad, people are staring." She groaned.
"Of course they're staring." Her mother said.
"They know you're meant for greatness." Her father continued. They began to cry again. 
"Enough. I really should go." She told them.
"Okay sweetie. We'll take care of Tank for you."  
Tank was her pet turtle. Her father thought she might like a muggle pet. When she first got him, she hadn't liked him much. Rainbow liked to move fast and tank was very slow. Yet somehow she had become attached to him. Maybe it was all the cute turtle smiles, or maybe it was all the time she'd been able to vent about her overbearing parents to him. It was probably the second one.
"Thanks mom," She said with a sincere grin. As she walked towards the scarlet engine she heard her father call 'that's our girl!' She rolled her eyes. She loved her parents, but she was glad to be getting a break from them.
***
Rarity could honestly say that her trip to Hogwarts was not going as she'd always imagined. For one thing Sweetie Belle was rarely in her imaginings, and when she was she was walking alongside the family not running ahead into the crowded King's cross station. It was annoying. Deep down Rarity knew that she was just resenting her sister because she desperately wanted to do the same thing herself. She wasn't going to though, she was going to maintain a proper attitude if it killed her.
Their was also the matter of her parents. in her fantasies they were wearing elegant robes as they guided her to platform 9 3/4. Instead they had decided to wear muggle attire to blend in better. Muggie attire was strange at the best of times, but her parents weren't wearing ordinary muggle clothes anyway. They both had medium blue shirts with a floral pattern in a garish array of colors. Apparently they were something muggle tourists wore.
"Rarity I found it!" She heard Sweetie Belle call. She and her parents followed the voice to the barrier between platforms nine and ten. Her sister was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly she felt hands wrap around her legs and she was pulled through the barrier. She stumbled and fell over earning several stares. Rarity blushed with embarrassment. That was not how she'd intended to enter the platform at all. 
"Sweetie Belle! I cannot believe you." She scolded.
"Sorry, I was just excited for you to see it." Her sister said. Rarity's eyes followed her sister's gesturing hand. There on the platform was a magnificent scarlet train. Now that was a vehicle worthy of such an esteemed school.
Her thoughts were interrupted her and angry hiss from her trolley. Rarity looked down and her voice took on a syrupy tone. "Oh Opal Wopal I promise to let you out as soon as we find a train compartment. "
Her parents finally walked through the wall.  "I see you've found the Hogwarts express." Her mother said.
"I wanna go too!" Sweetie complained. Rarity groaned but was saved from having to say anything by her parents.
"Now Sweetie you'll get to go in a few years. You just have to be patient." Her father told her. Rarity couldn't help but smirk. Yes, Sweetie Belle would have to wait as long as she had. Her wait was over.
***
Fluttershy did not have the desire to yell often. She was a very quiet person, especially when nervous as she was now. She was standing just outside the barrier to platform 9 and 3/4, holding her father tightly as her knees shook. She wasn't ready for this. All those new people, all the new subjects, the responsibility of learning magic, it all weighed upon her heavily. Zephyr was not helping. 
Fluttershy had a strong desire to yell at her brother but she didn't act upon it for multiple reasons. The main ones being she didn't want to draw attention to herself, and the knot in her throat probably wouldn't allow her anyway. 
"Come on! I wanna see the Hogwarts express!" Zephyr whined for what felt like the hundredth time. It was just going to be her and her father but Zephyr had begged to come. He hadn't been quiet the entire time. 
"Patience Zephyr, your sister gets to go first. It's her first time after all." Her father told him gently.
"Then why hasn't she gone in yet?" He asked, a small pout on his lips. 
"I-I'd like to see you try to go through what looks like a solid wall." She managed to get out. 
"I'd love to but dad wants you to go first. Come on sis we can't stay here all day." Her brother tried to encourage her. 
"W-well why don't you go to school for me, and I'll wait until next year." She muttered. 
Zephyr turned to their father with a bright expression on his face. The older man shook his head. "I'm afraid not." Her brother pouted. 
"Look sweetheart, I know it's scary, but you have to do this. You have magic whether you want it or not. It's dangerous to leave uncontrolled. Both for you and others." Her father told her.
She sighed. "Okay." 
"That's my brave girl. Now I want you to close your eyes." She did so. She felt her father's hands on her shoulders and he began to guide her forward whispering soothing things into her ears. "You can open them now." 
She opened her eyes to see she was on platform 9 and 3/4 a scarlet engine sat on the platform . She stared in awe. It was then she heard an irate voice complain about food. Apparently Angel had finally woken up. 
***
Pinkie didn't let go of the vice grip she had on her entire family. How she had a vice grip on five other people was anyone's guess. The point was Pinkie was hugging her family. "I'm gonna miss you guys so much!"
A gruff voice came from the group of people in the excitable girl's grip. "Pinkie you're gonna crush to rock dust." 
Pinkie immediately let them all go. "Sorry Limestone. I'm just so excited!"
"Try to be less physical with your excitement." Her sister growled. 
Pinkie began to say her individual goodbyes to her family. "Mom , Dad thanks for letting me come here." 
"Thou must remember Pinkie, thou hast to use such power for good." Her father said.
"Remember to keep thy friends close." Her mother added.
"Thanks for the advice! Even if I already knew it!" She moved on to her baby sister Marble. She made her usual noise. "You wanna say you'll miss me too?" Pinkie translated. Marble nodded her head. Pinkie hugged her again. 
Pinkie moved onto Maud. "I promise to send you letters all the time. Professor Flitwick said the school had owl's for that!"
"Okay, Owl send them right back." Maud told her. 
"Classic Maud!" Pinkie laughed. 
Finally she moved onto her oldest sister. "Limestone I'm gonna miss you too. Even if you can be a little grumpy.
Limestone looked anywhere but at Pinkie. "Well, I guess I might miss you. A little." She mumbled, rubbing the back of her neck nervously. She gave Pinkie a serious look. "You're sure you packed everything in your hurry?"
"Of course I did silly! What would I have missed?" She asked.
"What about this guy?" Her sister deadpanned pulling a stuffed alligator from her pocket.
"Gummy!" Pinkie grabbed the toy and held it close to her . I thought I packed you?" Pinkie gasped. "I was going to leave you behind! Thank you Limestone!" 
"Just looking out for my little sis." She murmured once again unable to look her sister in the eye. 
"Oh I love you!' Pinkie cheered and gave Limestone another hug. 
"Alright, alright, you're crushing my ribcage." Her sister said as she pushed her away. She had a smile on her face though. 
Having finally said her goodbyes Pinkie began to skip towards the train the calls of her family behind her.
***
Of course Twilight had been to platform 9 and 3/4 before. That didn't make this trip any less special though. All the other times she had just been going to bid her brother farewell until Christmas. This was different. For the first time she would be going with him. She'd be getting on the Hogwarts express. She'd be leaving her parents behind.
Twilight felt a brief moment of sadness. She shook it off. She was ready for this. She had been ready for this for years. She wanted to learn practical magic more than anything. She had studied her brother's books for years with fascination only wondering what Shining was doing. That didn't mean she wouldn't miss her parents though.
"Where's Shining?" She asked, noticing his absence. 
"Where do you think?" Her father chuckled. She followed his pointing finger and giggled herself. Shining was talking to his friend Cadence. Though it was quite clear they liked each other more than that. Shining was just too much of a gentleman to make a move.
"I see." She frowned. "I packed everything right?"
Her mother laughed. "Honey you only checked your packing four times. Maybe you should check it a fifth?" 
Twilight moved to do so when her father stopped her. "She's joking. There's no way you missed anything." He paused. "Now remember to stay out of trouble. Listen to your teachers and get your homework done early. " He advised.
"Don't forget to have fun dear! Like swimming in the lake!" Her mother suggested.
"Honey there's a giant squid in the lake." Her father frowned.
"I know! Do you know how many times I went diving in search of it?" She pouted. "I never did find it."
"That's a good thing." Her father muttered. 
"You'd think a giant squid would be easy to find but nope." Her mother sighed. 
"Just stay safe please?" He asked.
"Don't worry dad, I have no plans to dive in the lake." She promised.
Her father gave her mother a triumphant look. "Fine." She pouted.
"Well I'd better get going if I want to find a free compartment." She told them turning to walk to the train.
"Make sure you write, Owlicious could use the exercise." Her father called.
"Tell Professor McGonagall I said hi, and that I'm sorry about the time I accidently transfigured her hat into a peacock!"
Twilight was just putting Owlicious in the luggage car when she realized what her mother had said. "You did what?!"
***
Applejack stared dubiously at the divider between platforms nine and ten. She glanced down and her paper just to be sure. Yeah this was the place. Applejack glanced at the divider once again. She'd seen a lot of magic in the past week. Crazy things like floating items, teacups that could bite, and flying broomsticks. Really she should have every bit of faith that she could walk through what looked to be a solid wall. 
"Are ya gonna go in or just stare at it!" Applebloom cried. 
"It ain't that simple. Even if ya know the wall isn't solid ya still have a hard time goin' through it." Applejack sighed. "Besides the rest of ya need ta hold onto me if ya wanna go through."
"I know, that's why I wantcha ta go through now! I wanna see a magic train!" Her sister pouted. Applejack sighed a turned to Big Mac.
"Should we just go fer it?" She asked. 
"Yep." He nodded. 
"Alright, everyone grab onto me." She felt Applebloom grip her right hand, Big Mac her left, and Granny grabbed a shoulder. "On three we run. Okay?" Her family nodded. "One. Two. Three!" With that the Smiths ran towards the wall. Applejack closed her eyes bracing for the impact. Only for there to be none. She opened her eyes. "We made it?"
They had, there were several groups of people going to and fro around the platform. Everyone trying their hardest to get where needed to go. Families saying goodbye to one another. A great scarlett train sat upon a set of tracks ahead. The only reason she knew it wasn't a normal train platform, aside from having to walk through a wall to get there, was because everyone was wearing those weird robe things. 
She heard an animal cry and sighed. She wished Winona could have come. She was as much a part of the family as everyone else. They weren't sure how she'd react though so she'd been left home. Applejack wished she could take Winnona with her, but she was the family dog and so should stay with the majority of the family. Professor Sprout had offered to get her a cat or an owl but it just wouldn't be the same as having Winona there. So she'd declined. 
She turned to her family. "So I guess this is it then." She told them. Truthfully she was a little sad. She was going to be away from her family for several months. Longer then she ever had before. She was going to miss them something fierce. 
She turned to Granny Smith. "Make sure ya take care of the house an' feed everyone."
"Don't worry about us Applejack. I can handle the cookin'." She reassured her. "I am gonna miss yer apple fritter flapjacks though."
She turned to her sister. "Applebloom stay outta trouble, an don' ferget ta help durin' the harvest." 
"I wish I could go too." Applebloom said. 
`	"So do I sugarcube, gonna be lonely without ya." Applejack said, giving her sister a quick hug. She turned to her brother. "Big Mac, sorry 'bout leaving ya with my part of the harvest."
"No problem." Her brother said with a shake of his head.
"Keep Applebloom and Granny safe ya hear?" She told him, ignoring Granny's cry of 'I don't need no protection.' 
"Applejack," Big Mac began pausing to make sure she knew he was gonna say more. "I know yer gonna miss us. So Applebloom and I made something for ya." Confused Applejack stood there as Big Mac pulled out a large heart shaped golden locket. It had an apple in the center. 
"Big Mac, I can’t accept anything that expensive." She shook her head.
"It's just gold plated." He told her.
Applejack hesitantly took the locket. She opened it and gasped. Inside the locket were four places for pictures. One in front, one in back, and a center piece where two pictures could be placed back to back. In the first was Granny, then Big Mac, Applebloom and Winona, then finally her parents. Applejack felt tears in her eyes.  "I dunno what ta say." 
"Say you'll wear it!" Applebloom told her. 
"I'll only take it off to bathe and sleep." She promised. Big Mac unclipped the lock and put it around her neck. At that moment the last whistle went off. "I gotta go." With that she entered the train.
> Departure part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight settled back in her perfectly placed compartment. It was near the train's center. Close enough to the front for leaving to be relatively easy, yet far enough away for the noise to be minimal. She opened her copy of standard book of spells: year 1 and began to reread it. 
It was a short time later that she heard the compartment door open. "I hate ta intrude but can' seem ta find an open compartment. Ya mind if I sit with you?" 
Twilight smiled as she lowered her book. "Of course come right-" She stopped dead in her words as she took in the girl before her. She had blonde hair in a side tail, green eyes, and freckles, none of these traits had been what shocked her. No the girl was wearing muggle clothing! Including an odd hat she'd never seen before!
"Uh, ya feeling alright?" The girl asked, looking at her unsurely. Twilight blushed as she realized she'd been staring. 
"I'm fine, please join me!" She winced at the way those words came out. She sounded way too excited. She didn't want to scare the girl away.
"Thank ya kindly." The girl told her sitting diagonally from her. There was an awkward moment of silence Twilight decided to break.
"So... I'm Twilight Sparkle and you are?" Twilight asked. That was good, unintrusive, a perfectly normal question to start things off with.
"I'm Applejack Smith." She replied. Good Twilight had a name.
"How are you doing?" Once again a normal question, keep with the normal questions Twilight,
"I'm a mite nervous, seeing as I'm new ta all this." Applejack admitted,
Twilight did her best to refrain from giggling excitedly. "Really are you muggleborn?" 
"What in the hay is a muggleborn?" She asked with those words Twilight lost all control over her excitement.
"Oh my gosh! I've always wanted to meet a muggleborn! I have so many questions to ask you! How do you start a fire without magic? What's muggle school like? How does an oven work? What is the function of a rubber duck? Do your pictures move? I heard they don't move, is that true? What-" Twilight found her ramblings cut off by Applejack's hand.
"Now slow down there sugarcube, yer speaking faster than a jackrabbit on a greasy hot griddle in the middle of August." She chuckled. She pulled out a bundle of papers attached together by a spiral piece of metal, and a cylindrical object tapered at each end. She pulled the back end in and a small point came out of the front end. "Now give those questions again slowly and I'll write'em down so I can answer them."
Twilight blinked, all other questions had left her mind in lieu of one. "What are those?" 
Applejack gave her an odd look. "Well this is a notebook." 
Twilight had her quill and parchment paper out and writing. "Fascinating, using a coiled wire and a stack of precut parchment muggles have made a rudimentary book in which to take notes." She nodded. "Continue."
"This is a pen, ya use it ta write things." She told her. 
"How?" Twilight's surprise Applejack twisted the back end of the 'pen' and opened it. She showed Twilight the inside.
"See there's already ink inside it. No need ta dip." She seemed rather proud of that.
Twilight began to write again. "Muggles have created a cylindrical object in which they have placed a miniature inkwell, allowing for longer writing time." 
"Is it okay if I keep asking you things?" She asked.
"Fine by me." Applejack told her. Twilight was ecstatic.
***
Rainbow Dash had been surprised to find most compartments with people in them, She felt as though she'd gotten on as quickly as possible and yet there it was.  It took forever to find a compartment without other people. 
When she got there she sat down and took out a book. Yes books were dumb, Rainbow Dash knew that, but this one was about Quidditch. In other words the awesomeness of Quidditch balanced out the dumbness of books. So it wasn't lame, just not awesome. 
Not that she got much reading done before a pair of ginger twins burst into her compartment. They didn't bother asking her if they could stay. They sat down on the seat across from and settled in a matching pair of Cheshire grins upon their faces. 
"Who are you, and why are you so rude?" She demanded.
"Who." One began.
"us?" The other continued.
"Why we're Fred," said the first.
"And George Weasley." The second finished. 
"Now," The first began.
"We introduced ourselves." The second continued.
"So we'd think it polite," 
"If you did the same."  The two stopped looking at her questioningly.
"Rainbow Dash." She told them.
"So Miss. Dash." Fred? said
"seems like you're a little first year." George? said. 
"Is there anything us wise," 
"And humble upperclassman can do for you?" 
"Yeah. How awesome is the Quidditch pitch?" She asked.
"Well it's not as large," The left one began. 
"As professional league Pitches are," The right one continued..
"but it's in top condition," 
"No shoddy equipment either."
"so all in all it's quite good."
There was a moment of silence as Rainbow took in their words. Seemed the Quidditch Pitch was of high quality. 
"So are you interested in the sorting?" Fred? asked.
Rainbow tried not to smirk. She was well aware of the hazing the older students did. Her mother had told her well in advance. She could of course, tell them she already knew, but what was the fun in that? "Yeah I was wondering about that."
"Well we're happy to assist." George? began.
"See you've gotta," Fred? continued.
"Fight a troll and"
"You get placed in your house,"
"Based on how fast your time is." 
"Wow that sounds awesome!" She exclaimed. She tried not to let a smug look come across her face at the two's surprised expressions. 
"Really, you know students have," 
"gotten brutally injured." 
"So? That just means I'll get to skip out on class." She told them. Concern was growing in their eyes. It took all she had not to laugh. 
"If you survive that is." George? warned. 
"Hey at least I'd go down in history!" She exclaimed. The concern in their eyes became too much for her and she burst out laughing. "You should see the looks on your faces! I got you good! I already know you use a hat!" 
The twins exchanged glances then smirked,  "Well played mate." Fred? congratulated her. 
"Never had a first year pull that one." His brother agreed. 
It was then the doors burst open yet again. A bouncy girl with wildly curly pink hair poked her head in. "Hey, is there a party going on in here? I wanna join!" before anyone could say anything the pink haired girl sat next to Rainbow. "Okay so I'm Pinkie Pie! Call me Pinkie! I'm so excited to go to Hogwarts! Are you a first year too?"
"Uh, yeah?" Rainbow answered. 
"That's great!" She turned to the twins, and held out a package of gum. "You want any?"
George? shrugged and reached to grab one only to find his finger caught under a u shaped piece of metal. Pinkie started to laugh and Rainbow couldn't help but join in. "The fake bubblegum trick! That's a classic!" She said.
"I've never seen it before." Fred? told them.
"Really? It's pretty common knowledge. Unless... Are you two purebloods?" Rainbow asked.
"Yeah, is this some muggle trick?" George? asked.
Rainbow chuckled. "it's seems we have a lot to learn from each other."
***
`	Applejack was starting to wonder how long Twilight could keep asking her questions when the compartment door opened. In the doorway stood a young girl with bushy brown hair, Applejack took note of her normal looking clothing. Behind her was a chubby boy with an incredibly nervous expression on his face. "Can we join you? This is the only compartment with room for two more." The girl explained.
"Two muggleborns in one day?! How lucky can I get?" Twilight exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. The girl gave her an odd look. Twilight cleared her throat. "I mean the more the merrier."
The girl sat across from Twilight while the boy sat across from her. "I'm Hermione Granger, and you are?" The girl asked Twilight, holding out a hand. 
"Twilight Sparkle," The purple hair girl responded, shaking the offered hand with reckless abandon. "So can I ask a few dozen questions about muggle life? I'm really curious and I think Applejack is all questioned out."
Hermione nodded. "Yes, but in return I'd like to know more about wizards."
"An exchange of information! What could be better!" Twilight and Hermione began talking. Applejack tuned them out, relieved to not have questions thrown at her. 
She turned her attention towards the pudgy boy across the aisle. He was obviously incredibly nervous and she felt her maternal instincts kick in. "Hey," She began catching his attention.  "What's yer name?"
"N-Neville Longbottom." He stuttered.
"Well Neville I'm Applejack Smith and I'm pleased ta make yer acquaintance!" She greeted. He nodded. She frowned. "If ya don' mind me sayin' Neville ya seem ta be a mite nervous? Anything ya wanna talk about?"
He sighed. "W-well. I'm not very good at anything." 
"Why do ya say that?" She asked her heart going out to him.
"B-both my parents are wizards, so everyone thought I'd show signs of magic right away, but I didn't show any until recently. Everyone was starting to think I was a squib." He seemed to find the compartment floor very interesting. 
"Is that all?" She prompted.
"I can't remember things very well, I'm really clumsy, and I just feel like a screw up." He sighed.
Applejack nodded. "Well Neville, the way I figure it the only way ya can be a screw up if if ya don' try. Yer gonna try right?"
"My Gran would kill me if I didn't." He muttered.
Applejack shook her head. "Don't try fer yer Gran. Try fer yourself. Try ta show others that yer not as big a failure as they'd all like ta think!"
Neville gave the slightest of grins. "Okay."  The compartment door opened and a lady asked them if they wanted anything off the trolley. Twilight ordered four chocolate frogs and handed one to each of them.
"They come with cards! I collect them. So I thought I'd buy some for all of us." Twilight smiled. 
"Well that's mighty kind of ya." Applejack nodded. It was then that Neville opened his chocolate frog. it jumped startling her, and Neville himself. He jumped back in fear and dropped his pet toad, who hopped off immediately. 
"Trevor!" The boy cried out as it left the compartment. 
The other three girl stood up. "We'll search compartment by compartment. Then reconvene in about thirty minutes." Twilight told them. They all nodded in approval of this plan before moving to enact it.
***
Fluttershy was having trouble finding an empty compartment. No matter where she went there was someone in the compartment. She was beginning to lose hope. She sighed and checked the next compartment only to find that once again there were already people inside.  She moved to leave when one of them called out.
"Within this compartment we reside, but there's still room please come inside." Fluttershy walked in nervously. There were two people inside. On the left bench sat a black girl with black and white striped hair in a pixie cut. On the right sat a boy with brown hair and gray eyes. He already had a yellow crest on his uniform. 
"Feel free to sit anywhere you like." He told her. She nodded and sat next to the girl. It wasn't that she didn't like the boy, but the girl had invited her in. "I believe introductions are in order. I'm Cedric Diggory." 
"Um Fluttershy... shy. I know it's weird." She muttered.
"It's not as weird as you claim, Zecora Stripe is my name." The girl told her.
"I see..." Fluttershy trailed.
"Nervous?" Cedric asked. She nodded. "Most of us are the first time." 
"Overcoming fear is quite the task, if you have any questions feel free to ask." Zecora said.
"W-well... Is Hogwarts safe?" She asked.
"It's well protected. No one can apparate in or out.  Even if someone tried to sneak in they'd have to get through the forbidden forest." He told her.
"That place sounds scary." She whispered.
"The creatures rarely leave the forest so as long as you stay away from it you'll be fine." He reassured her.
"I-is there anywhere else I should avoid?" 
"If you wish to avoid a row, stay away from the Whomping Willow, and for heaven's sake stay out of the lake!" Zecora told her. 
"Yeah, that's about it. If we're talking about people, try not to bother Flich."  Cedric added.
Okay so. What's this sorting ceremony about?" She asked.
"Don't worry, you just have to put a hat on. Nothing dangerous." Cedric smiled. 
"Oh, good. I was hoping the older students were exaggerating." Fluttershy agreed. 
So it went with the three talking about the different classes and places in Hogwarts. Eventually they were talking about Quidditch. It sounded scary but also fun. She didn't think she'd want to play though. Apparently she wouldn't be able to anyway because first years weren't allowed on the team. 
They were interrupted by a pudgy boy opening the compartment. "Um, I hate to ask but have you seen a toad?"
The three glanced at each other. "No, I don't think so, have you lost one?" Cedric asked.
"Yeah, my pet Trevor." He looked like he was about to cry. 
"Oh the poor dear! All alone on the train. Surrounded by huge people not looking out for him. He must be scared." Fluttershy said. A determined look came over her face. "Do you need help looking?" 
"I hate to be a bother..." The boy trailed. 
"Oh it's no bother at all!" She insisted. "I'll just worry about the poor thing otherwise." 
"Well... Okay." He agreed Fluttershy nodded and turned to the other two. 
"Would you save my seat?" She asked.
"Finding a toad will be quite a feat, go on then we'll save your seat." Zecora winked.
"Thanks!"
***
Rarity had taken a bit to find a mostly clear compartment. It seemed the train filled fast and if one wanted to choose their place on it they'd have to enter at least fifteen minutes beforehand. Nevertheless Rarity had found a compartment containing only one other passenger. 
She had yellow and orange hair and aquamarine eyes. She was sitting in the compartment reading a book on curses. "Excuse me?" She asked, the girl's eyes locked on her. "I hate to intrude but may I join you?" 
The girl's eyes bore into her, as though she were looking into Rarity's soul. Just as she was about to ask if there was something on her face the girl shrugged. "Sure." She said, returning her attention to her book. 
Beaming Rarity sat next to her. "I do apologize but it took forever to even find an compartment this clear. I am Rarity Flanks, and you are?"
"Sunset Shimmer." The girl responded shortly. 
"Pleased to meet you Miss. Shimmer." Rarity told her. 
"Sunset, Miss. Shimmer makes me feel old." She said
"Oh, my apologies Sunset." She corrected.  She let Opal out of the cage. "I hope you don't mind. My Opal has been dying to get out." 
Before Sunset could say anything a boy barged in. He had white blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. His hair was perfectly slicked back and he was flanked by two large boys. "Well this is the clearest compartment yet. Come on." He ordered the two boys. He sat himself across from the two of them, the boys sitting on either side. 
Rarity was about to chastise him for his rudeness but Sunset beat her to it. She heaved a sigh and shut her book. "Most people knock." 
"The train is public property I hardly need to knock." He scoffed.
"Be that as it may there are certain principles to uphold!" Rarity interjected.
"You know we're technically on a train headed towards the school. I doubt underage magic would be forbidden. I could jinx you right now." Sunset told him.
The two boys tensed and the blonde sneered. "You wouldn't dare."
"Wouldn't I?" She asked, letting the threat hang in the air. For a few moments there was silence then the blonde smirked.
"I'm impressed. Could you really follow through on that threat?" He asked.
"Yeah, I've been studying hexes, jinxes, and curses for years now. I haven't actually cast one yet but I doubt I'd fail. I want everyone to know not to mess with me." Sunset smirked back.
"I think you an I will get on fine." He said. "I'm Draco Malfoy."
"Sunset Shimmer."  The blonde turned to Rarity.  "Rarity Flanks." She told him 
"What about you? Rarity. What spells do you know?"
"Me? Well I'm not really the hexing type darling. I prefer subtly in my spells. That said I am more than capable of defending myself if necessary." She told him.
He nodded. "You carry yourself well, I assume you're a pureblood?"
"I am indeed. Although my parents are always saying magic isn't everything and that I should try to do things for myself." She sighed.
Draco rolled his eyes. "What's the point of having magic if you don't use it?"
"I know! That's what I-" The door opened and a blonde girl with green eyes peered in. 
"Ya'll seen a toad? My friend Neville lost one." She asked in the most hideous dialect Rarity had ever heard. 
"Excuse me! We were in the middle of a conversation!" She told the girl, outraged. 
"I apologize for that but-" the girl tried to excuse but Rarity wasn't having any of that!
"No excuses! You should have knocked!" Perhaps she was taking things a bit far but really. Did no one care about manners?
"Well I'm sorry I thought the well being of a living creature was more important than knocking!" The girl retorted.
"Well I never! Some of us have standards you know?!" She yelled back. It was unseemly but there was something about this girl that got under her skin.
"I don't care. Now have ya'll seen a toad or not?" The girl asked again.
"I assure you if I had seen a toad you would have heard my scream from the other side of the train. Now leave!" The girl scowled and slammed the door behind her. 'The nerve of some people!"
"What do you expect from a mudblood?" Draco asked, Rarity was shocked. That word was very rude. She was about to tell him so when Sunset spoke up. 
"I know so people need to know their place." Rarity frowned. The three of them had been getting on so well. There was no reason they couldn't be friends right? So long as she wasn't expected to stoop to their level it was fine. Right?
***
Pinkie was just finishing explaining the uses for hot sauce in pranks. Fred and George had been fascinated by it. Meanwhile she had been fascinated by stink pellets and fireworks that could be lit without a match. 
"We aren't usually into muggle stuff." Fred said.
"That's more our dad's thing," George continued. 
"But this is all brilliance!" 
"No magic is involved." 
"so it can't be stopped with anti prank charms." Fred finished.
"Who are you gonna prank first?" Pinkie asked. 
The twin sported devilish grins. "Our brother Percy. He's a wet blanket." Fred said.
"Sound like you have it all planned out George." Rainbow told him.
"Uh, Rainbow? That's Fred." Pinkie corrected. The twins stared at her in shock. 
"Oh. How can you tell the difference?" Rainbow asked. Just as Pinkie was about to tell her, the compartment door opened and a girl with purple and pink hair peered in. 
"Have any of you seen a smooth sided toad? I'm looking for one." She asked.
"Nope haven't seen one." Rainbow shrugged.
"Neither have we." The Twins replied as one. 
"I haven't seen him but I'm sure I could find him." Pinkie told her. She pulled out a bowler hat and a magnifying glass. 
"Where was she keeping those?" George asked. 
"I dunno some kind of muggle trick?" Fred asked. They turned to Rainbow. 
"Beats me." She shrugged. 
Pinkie had started to examine the compartment. "I have come to a conclusion." 
The girl raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"The toad isn't here. I'll have to investigate the train." The purple haired girl rolled her eyes and left. Pinkie walked out the door staring at the floor through the magnifying glass. Eventually she bumped her head into a random compartment. Figuring this must be a clue she opened the compartment door.
"Excuse me, have you-" She cut herself off as she saw it. A mountain of candy sat between two boys. her mouth watered. "That's a lot of candy." 
"Would you like some?" The black haired boy asked.
"Yes!" She cheered, before shoving an entire pumpkin pastie into her mouth. This was followed by a chocolate frog, which she ate while it was still moving, and then some sort of lollipop. 
"So, there was something you wanted to ask?" The black haired boy prompted. 
"Was there?" She dove into a box of Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans, She picked a maroon one and frowned. "Toffee? I was hoping for earwax." 
"Yes you were going to ask us something before you started to eat all our sweets." The ginger boy pouted. 
"Now that I think about it, there was something I was supposed to ask you but I can't quite remember... Must not have been important!" She shrugged, proceeding to eat a green bean and smiling when she found it was lawn clippings. 
The compartment door opened a second time.  A bushy haired girl peered in. "Have either of you seen a toad? A boy named Neville's lost one."
"Oh! That's what I wanted to ask! I got so distracted by the candy I forgot!" She gasped. She got up and ran out the door, then she ran back to grab the box of beans. "Almost forgot this!" 
As she rushed off a second time she heard the girl call after her.  "You ought to change into your robes! We'll be arriving soon!"
Really?! She needed to get ready! She was about to go to a magic school! She rushed off to find her robes, the thought of Hogwarts driving out her search for the toad once more.