The Hufflepuff common room was warm and welcoming, the soft golden light of floating lamps reflecting off cozy wooden beams. As Roy stepped inside, he immediately caught the attention of a tall, fair-haired boy with a bright smile — Cedric Diggory, a third-year Hufflepuff.
"Hello! I'm Cedric Diggory. You must be the new first-year everyone's talking about," Cedric said, extending his hand.
Roy shook it politely. "Roy Valvas. Pleased to meet you, Cedric."
Cedric's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I've been meaning to welcome you properly! Come on, I'll tell you everything about Hufflepuff — the professors, the house traditions, and all the secrets you need to know!"
As they walked through the common room, Roy's presence drew curious glances from the other first-year Hufflepuffs. Notable among them were Hannah Abbott, Susan Bones, Ernie Macmillan, Justin Finch-Fletchley, and a few others. They quickly warmed to Roy's calm demeanor and polite manners. Within minutes, Roy was chatting and laughing with them, listening attentively as Cedric enthusiastically explained:
Professor Sprout, the kind-hearted head of Hufflepuff and Herbology teacher, loves plants and values loyalty above all.
Professor Flitwick, the tiny but clever Charms master, often hides behind intricate magical demonstrations.
Professor McGonagall, stern but fair, oversees Gryffindor and watches over the Sorting ceremonies.
How each house has its own traits: Gryffindor for courage, Slytherin for cunning, Ravenclaw for intelligence, and Hufflepuff for loyalty and teamwork.
Roy was intrigued but also carefully observed everything around him — the layout of the common room, the interactions among the students, even the expressions of his new housemates.
After dinner, Professor Dumbledore rose to address the students from the high table. His voice carried the quiet authority of someone who had seen centuries pass.
"Welcome to another year at Hogwarts. I trust you will all do your best to study diligently, practice your magic responsibly, and respect the rules of this castle. Specifically, do not enter the third-floor corridor."
A few students shivered at the mention of the third floor; Roy, however, simply nodded, already curious but thoughtful about the restriction.
Once Dumbledore dismissed them, the students returned to their house tables and then to the dormitories. Cedric guided Roy to the first-year sleeping quarters. Inside, Roy was introduced to the beds assigned to the new students, where Hannah, Susan, Ernie, Justin, and others were already chatting. Roy's calm but confident presence made the first-years feel immediately at ease. Friendships were formed almost instantly, with laughter and stories filling the room.
Professors Privately Discuss Roy
Meanwhile, in a quiet corridor near the staff room, Professor Sprout spoke with Professor McGonagall and a few senior members of staff.
"Roy Valvas… that Sorting was remarkable," Sprout whispered. "I've never seen a student eligible for all four houses. His choice of Hufflepuff was… unexpected, but sensible."
McGonagall adjusted her spectacles. "Hufflepuff values loyalty and fairness, and he seems to have a natural sense of balance. But we must monitor him closely. The Valvas name carries weight in both the magical and muggle worlds. He is no ordinary first-year."
"Agreed," Sprout nodded. "He already shows maturity beyond his years. His calm demeanor, intelligence, and control over his presence… he could influence the entire school, subtly or overtly, if we're not careful."
They paused for a moment, watching the first-years laugh in the distance.
"We should ensure he integrates well without overshadowing the others," McGonagall said. "The boy is extraordinary, but he must learn friendship, humility, and the responsibilities that come with power."
Sprout nodded, her eyes thoughtful. "Indeed. For now, let him settle. But I will keep a close watch. A seed like that… must be nurtured carefully."
By the end of the night, Roy had already bonded with Cedric, Hannah, Susan, Ernie, and Justin. He had observed the behaviors of his housemates, gauged their strengths, and noted potential allies. Meanwhile, the professors, aware of the Valvas legacy, quietly debated how best to handle a student who could shape the future of Hogwarts itself.
Roy, however, remained blissfully unaware of the quiet murmurs among the staff, focused instead on the warmth of the Hufflepuff common room and the friendships that were beginning to form.