Chapter Text
Kim Dokja rubbed his bandaged arm with soft sniffles, his swollen yet tender cheek was stained with tears as his mother brought him to her embrace, shaky limbs wrapping around him. “Dokja-ya… I told you to stay in your room.” Lee Sookyung whispered, voice soft as she reprimanded her son who shook his head vehemently.
“He’s hurting you, Mom! How can I stay back and just watch!” The 11 years old boy protested, teary brown pupils facing his mother who had a gentle smile on her lips despite all the bruises littering on her face. After Kim Dokja ran between his parents, he was punched by his own father and his mother quickly shielded him, resulting in his good-for-nothing father to kick her repeatedly before leaving the house with a sneer – surely to buy alcohol again.
DING DONG
The son and mother duo turned their heads in unison to the door. “Wait here, Dokja-ya.” Lee Sookyung brushed her son’s fringes lovingly as she got up and walked to the door only to return with an envelope in her hand, confusion flickered on her face.
“What’s that, Mom?” Kim Dokja tilted his head to the side, curious brown eyes meeting the same shade of eyes the same as his. “I don’t know. I found this at the doorstep.” His mother kneeled beside him, opening the envelope that was stamped with a red seal. The address of their home was written neatly in cursive English alphabets.
Lee Sookyung is an educated person so she reads those words easily. She noticed that the envelope was addressed to her son who clung to her dress’ sleeve. “Mom, Mom! That is my name, right?” Kim Dokja pointed to the neat writing. Kim Dokja is a smart boy who picks up books after books so Lee Sookyung had taught him foreign languages and Kim Dokja now knew how to read English although sometimes he struggles too. The way he speaks English is very cute too, with all the accent and lisp. Lee Sookyung mused with a huff of amusement.
“Whoa. It looks like those old-fashioned envelope, Mom!” Eager voice slipped out from Kim Dokja’s voice as he tugged on Lee Sookyung’s arm with childish gleam. A smile curved on Lee Sookyung’s face as she relished the rare glimmer of excitement that her son portrayed. Kim Dokja matured too fast and she was sad to see her son not having a normal childhood.
“Open it, Mom!” Kim Dokja pleaded, torn lips formed an adorable pout although he winced as he did that. Lee Sookyung tutted as she ran her hands through Kim Dokja’s thin hair, peeling the envelope open. Parchment? A letter? She wondered as the odd brownish, inked material came to her view.
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Headmistress: Minerva McGonagall
Lee Sookyung’s brows quirked questioningly, a frown automatically curved on her face. Is this a prank? Her clueless son leant forward, brown eyes reading through the content. “Mom? Why is there a word w-w-wizardry here?” Kim Dokja squinted cutely.
Dear Mr. Dokja Kim,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry………
Lee Sookyung, dumbfounded, read through the content with a disbelieving face. Just what on earth…? “Mom?” Kim Dokja blinked at his stricken mother. “Nothing, Dokja-ya. Seems like a prank.” She sighed and folded the letter, placing it inside the envelope once more.
“Oh…” Kim Dokja mumbled in disappointment, hands dropping to his sides. Feeling sorry for causing that despondent look on her son’s face, she took Kim Dokja’s hand, letting the torn envelope laid on his small palm. “Here. You can have it.” Kim Dokja smiled at his mother, gingerly holding the envelope like it was his lifeline.
That night, Kim Dokja slept with the letter in his curled hand, not knowing that it would change his life forever.
“I’m home.” Kim Dokja said softly as he opened the door to his house, brown eyes peeking for the sight of his father and breathed out in relief once he noticed his father was nowhere to be seen and his shoes were still missing so maybe he was out.
“Mom? I’m home—who are you?” Kim Dokja stopped on his tracks when he noticed an old foreign woman in an emerald robe standing in the middle of his living room, wrinkled skin puckered into a frown as she looked at him appraisingly, eyes lingering on his bandaged arm and bruised cheek. Her brown hair was streaked with grey and pulled into a neat bun, back straight despite her old age and the stern press of her lips outlined her firm demeanor. Her apprehensive look caused Kim Dokja to hunch over automatically.
“Mr. Kim Dokja?” Fluent English with a British accent flowed out as Kim Dokja’s eyes widened, caught off guard by the sudden onslaught of foreign language. “U—uh. Me. My Mom. Where? You? Who?” He asked slowly, accented English hesitantly slipped from his mouth. A smile tugged on the old woman’s lips momentarily. “Um, Mom! There is someone weird here!” Kim Dokja called out for his mother in Korean, wary brown eyes latched on the old woman.
“Dokja-ya. Don’t be rude.” Lee Sookyung’s voice from the kitchen rang out as she brought a tray of teapot and three cups with a jar of biscuits. “Here, Professor McGonagall.” Albeit accented, Lee Sookyung’s English was much smoother than Kim Dokja. “Ah, thank you, Mrs. Lee Sookyung.” The old woman who Lee Sookyung called Professor McGonagall said as she sipped on the tea.
“Dokja-ya. Meet your new teacher— I mean, professor. Professor Minerva McGonagall.” Lee Sookyung brought Kim Dokja to her side as he bowed to his presumed new teacher. “New teacher?” He whispered to his mother in confusion. Lee Sookyung smiled mysteriously as she shared a secretive look with Professor McGonagall.
Kim Dokja grew nervous.
“You have to be kidding me.”
Kim Dokja’s brown eyes were wide with disbelief as he watched a pair of birds teetering around his head before disappearing with a poof. “Magic is real?” He whirled around to his mother who calmly sipped on her tea. “So I’ve been told.” Lee Sookyung shrugged languidly as Professor McGonagall watched his reaction with a glimmer of amusement.
Kim Dokja was stupefied. To think that something like magic exists… it feels like he is entering a new world.
“So… I was invited to this magic school?” Kim Dokja waved his arms in a dumbfounding manner as Lee Sookyung nodded. “What? You don’t want to go?” Mischief curled at the edges of Lee Sookyung’s eyes. “I want to!” Kim Dokja blurted out eagerly. Yet, he was taken to reality as he faced his mother. “But mom… what about you? If I go, you will be here all alone with… him . I can’t leave you behind.” Kim Dokja shook his head, teeth nibbling on his lower lip.
“Oh, don’t worry about that, Dokja-ya. I have come up with a solution with Professor McGonagall. She agreed to get me protection. Wizards will be dispatched to protect me from your father as I settle things with him. As a guardian he will be told about your status as a wizard but if he dares to harm you or me, he will be taken into custody in the wizarding world. She also told me I can come to London with you too.” Lee Sookyung’s face looked fresh and young. It’s the first time Kim Dokja noticed that his mother is very beautiful when she smiles, especially when she’s happy.
“But… what about money?” Kim Dokja’s voice trailed off. Lee Sookyung’s smile gentled. Her son is truly wonderful. Even when he was given a chance to escape from the clutches of his abuser, he still cares about his poor mother. “All of the expenses will be taken care of by your school. Of course I will look for jobs at London as well.” She said and Kim Dokja relaxed.
“So, do you want to go, Dokja-ya?” Her lips still had that knowing smile that was often spotted whenever they came to a climax of the books they read together. Kim Dokja nodded determinedly.
“Yes. Let’s go to London, Mom.”
“I want to go back to Korea.” Kim Dokja wobbled on his knees, plopping on the concrete ground as he held his head between his hands. “Oh, shush.” Lee Sookyung laughed lightly as she landed lightly on her feet followed by Professor McGonagall. “First time using Portkey is always hard. You will get used to it slowly.” Professor McGonagall said lightly as she swept away an old boot that was enchanted to be a Portkey.
Kim Dokja was very intrigued by the concept of magic as he stared at how the boot disappeared with a pop. “Come. Let’s get you to Leaky Cauldron. It’s a pub but also an inn for parents who want to send their children to Hogwarts. You do not mind staying there, will you?” At the last sentence, the wise and wizened eyes glanced at the young mother who merely shook her head with a smile.
“Not at all, Minerva-ssi.” Lee Sookyung said amicably. “As I explained before, all of the school items can be found in Diagon Alley. We already prepared a job for you in the bookshop beside Leaky Cauldron. It’s a muggle bookshop but the owner is a Squib so he knows the existence of the magic world. Your home will be provided near the bookshop as well.” Professor McGonagall guided the two with a paced stride as they weaved through the crowd.
“Thank you for doing all of these, Minerva-ssi.” Lee Sookyung said gratefully as she bowed to Professor McGonagall who smiled kindly at her in return. “Not at all, Sookyung. It is my duty to provide the best for my students as a Headmistress and naturally that includes the welfare of their guardians as well.” Professor McGonagall uttered as they entered a small and dingy pub with a pleasant atmosphere.
“Oh, Professor!” A petite blonde lady with light blue eyes and ponytail hair greeted Professor McGonagall, apron wrapped around her waist snugly. “Hello, Mrs. Longbottom. Still working here?” The lady, Longbottom, only laughed as she waved her dainty hand in an embarrassed manner. “For now, Professor. I will be applying to be a Matron in Hogwarts soon.” Her reply was confident that she would be accepted as a healer and her light blue eyes landed on the son and mother duo.
“Why hello there. I am Hannah Longbottom.” She handed out a hand and Lee Sookyung received it with a friendly smile. “I am Lee Sookyung and this is my son, Kim Dokja. We are from Korea.” Kim Dokja shyly bowed to the kind lady, hands clutching his mother’s dress as he hid behind her. Kim Dokja is short compared to other normal 11 years old boys since his unstable eating habit caused his growth to be stunted but he will grow eventually just maybe not as fast as the other boys.
“First time to Hogwarts?” Despite the foreign accents, Hannah displayed a friendly demeanor that caused the timid Kim Dokja to nod. “Have fun in Hogwarts! You will enjoy the experience for sure.” Hannah Longbottom winked playfully to the quiet but well-mannered child. “I will.” Kim Dokja replied with adorable accented English.
Hannah cooed at the display of cuteness which caused Kim Dokja’s cheek pinked as he shifted his feet in embarrassment. “We will be going now, Mrs. Longbottom. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” A pleased smile curled on Professor McGonagall’s lips as she gazed at her former student. “The pleasure is all mine, Professor.” Hannah inclined her head respectfully.
“Hurry along, Dokja-ya.” Lee Sookyung held Kim Dokja’s hand as the boy bowed to Hannah who waved at him cordially with a smile. They walked off and headed upstairs where a room filled with their stuff was already placed neatly in the room. “Cool.” Kim Dokja muttered out breathily.
As Lee Sookyung sorted out everything with Professor McGonagall, Kim Dokja explored the room, awed brown eyes watching the moving portraits and talking mirror with gaping mouth. “Dokja-ya? Time to go to Gringotts Wizarding Bank.” Lee Sookyung called out as Kim Dokja hurriedly followed after his mother, not wanting to be left behind.
“Coming!”
“The bank is so huge!” Kim Dokja said after they retrieved money that was sponsored by Hogwarts, the pouch jiggled with coins. Professor McGonagall already left after his mother convinced the old witch that they would be fine walking around without a guide. Lee Sookyung didn’t want to burden the kind witch further.
“And, Mom, Mom! Did you see those goblins?” Kim Dokja tugged his mother’s dress with a childish grin which made Lee Sookyung’s usually firm expression loosened as she ruffled her son’s thin black hair.
“Yes, I do. Now let’s go buy your school supplies.” Kim Dokja nodded eagerly and off they went. First they went to the clothes shop - Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions. Kim Dokja read the sign quite easily. Months of studying English are already showing its result.
“Hello! First year to Hogwarts?” A squat middle-aged woman sidled to the side, lips curled into a smile as the two bowed at her automatically, accustomed by their usual greeting. The lady released a twinkling laughter. “Oh, there is no need for such formality!” She waved her wand and a measuring tape flew by, hovering near Kim Dokja.
Kim Dokja yelped, not expecting the sudden action. “Oh, my. I didn’t mean to startle you, sweetheart.” The presumed owner of the shop said with an apologetic smile as Kim Dokja grinned sheepishly to her. The woman who introduced herself as Madam Malkin is a very friendly woman who works efficiently as she took Kim Dokja’s measurement. “Quite a little thing, aren’t you?” She hummed out, tape circling Kim Dokja’s body as her hands moved gracefully.
“I am still a growing boy.” Kim Dokja said softly, still timid and shy as ever. “Of course you are, sweetheart. Grow up well.” Madam Malkin patted his head with a fond smile as she finished her work. They purchased Kim Dokja’s uniform before heading off to another store.
After picking up all that was required for necessities, the mother and son walked to a bookstore – the place where it feels like a home for both of them. Kim Dokja gasped in amazement as his brown eyes drank the sight of the shelves which were stacked to the ceiling with books as large as paving stones bound in leather with varying sizes. Some of them have titles with peculiar symbols and some don’t even have titles.
Kim Dokja could feel his mother’s gasp of astonishment as well and he clearly knew that his mother was excited because she tightened her hand on Kim Dokja’s hand, cheeks flushed with healthy pink and eyes gleamed with wonder. “Hello! First year to Hogwarts?” It seems the term is used quite often around here. “Yes.” Lee Sookyung nodded and the owner climbed up to one of the shelves, bringing out a pile of books before dropping them onto the desk. “12 Galleons.” The owner nodded with a friendly smile.
“Do you want to look around, Dokja-ya?” His mother said softly as Kim Dokja nodded eagerly. “Can you find some additional useful and suitable books for my son?” Lee Sookyung inquired as Kim Dokja rocked on his heels, preparing to bolt and snatch one of the books that caught his eyes. “Sure, Madam! Come along little boy.” The owner grinned at him and Kim Dokja happily skipped to the owner.
By the end of it, Kim Dokja acquired a total of 5 additional books which are Hogwarts: A History, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Books of Charms and Spells, Transformation Through the Ages and Curses and Counter-Curses. The owner was hesitant to give the last book to Kim Dokja since he is still young but seeing his bright eyes as he leafed through the book, the owner sold it off.
“Mom, is it alright to spend the money like this?” Kim Dokja as he heaved the pile of books with his skinny arms, glancing worriedly at his mother. He couldn’t wait to go back to the pub/inn to read through the books but he was still worried nonetheless. “It is fine. This is merely an investment for your future, Dokja-ya. You don’t need to worry about matters like this. Just focus on your studies.” Lee Sookyung patted Kim Dokja’s head with an affectionate smile.
“Do you want pets?” Lee Sookyung glanced at her son who had pursed his lips before hesitantly shaking his head. “I think it’s not a necessity at the moment. Maybe when I reach third year or something? It’s not needed for now.” Kim Dokja said firmly. He does want pets but he didn’t want to come off as selfish as to rob off all the money his mother has despite them being sponsored by Hogwarts itself.
Lee Sookyung laughed lightly. “If you said so. Now, the last thing on the list. A wand.” Kim Dokja brightened up immediately. This is the thing he’s been looking forward to the most. They arrived in front of the Ollivanders, a small and humble shop. “Go on ahead first, Dokja-ya. I am going somewhere first. You can do it alone, right?” A touch of concern leaked in her voice as she gazed at her son who huffed endearingly.
“Mom. Of course I can do it alone. I am independent enough.” Kim Dokja deadpanned as his mother chuckled. His mother left and he walked into the shop, still carrying the pile of books. “Excuse me…” Kim Dokja mumbled as he stepped into the shop, peeking around with wariness and curiosity.
A pair of black eyes met him and the owner of the said orbs belonged to a boy around his age, donned in a neat outfit, black buttoned up shirt with long sleeves and black ironed slacks with a pair of black leather shoes, black curls framing his quite roundish yet sharp features that highlights his youth. Kim Dokja jolted, not expecting another person to be in the shop because it was too quiet. The black eyes observed him before turning away.
Looks like an Asian. Kim Dokja took note of the other boy’s features. Kim Dokja fumbled with his books, dropping one of them which caused him to sigh in exasperation. He kneeled down to pick it up only for his books to tumble out of his arms. “Oh, for God's sake.” Kim Dokja groaned in his mother tongue, missing a surprised glance from the other boy.
Kim Dokja slowly picked up his books. When he reached for another, a pair of hands appeared before his brown eyes, picking up the scattered books as he handed them out silently. “Here.” A familiar language flowed out from the boy’s lips.
Kim Dokja snapped his head upward, accidentally bumping the crown of his head to the boy’s chin. “Ouch!” Kim Dokja winced, rubbing his sore head as the boy groaned, dropping the books to the ground when pain assaulted his senses. The boy glared at him as he held his throbbing chin. “Oh my God. I am so sorry!” Kim Dokja blurted out, hand darted out as he reached for the boy’s chin.
The boy jerked back like he wasn’t used to a stranger touching him out of nowhere. “What are you doing?” Wary black eyes latched on Kim Dokja’s hovering hand, still using Korean language. “I want to check your injury. It seems I clocked you pretty hard.” Kim Dokja said in concern.
“No need.” The boy brushed off his concern with an unfamiliar glint in his black eyes as Kim Dokja bit his lower lip. “I am so sorry for hurting you. I was just so excited to hear a familiar language around here…” Kim Dokja fidgeted with the hem of his clothes, books still scattered around him.
The boy huffed but didn’t refute as he picked up the fallen books, followed suit by Kim Dokja. “Thanks for your help!” Kim Dokja smiled at the boy who merely nodded his head back. “Say, what’s your name?” Kim Dokja asked after he set aside the books, brown eyes looking at the other’s impassive black eyes.
Kim Dokja noticed that the boy was shorter than him which was saying a lot since Kim Dokja was short enough.
“Yoo Joonghyuk.” It seemed that the boy had taken pity on him and decided to humor him by answering his questions. “I am Kim Dokja.” The taller boy smiled in a friendly manner. “Only child?” Yoo Joonghyuk tilted his head to the side, curls shifting and exposing his black eyes clearly.
Wow, he’s pretty . Kim Dokja realized it when he looked at the other boy’s features closely. Double lidded eyelids, mesmerizing black eyes with thick lashes, bow-shaped lips, aquiline nose and high, elegant cheekbones like a noble. The remnants of baby fats were still there but Kim Dokja was sure that this boy will grow up to be a lady killer in the future.
“No, no. As in a reader but it’s true that I am an only child. How about you?” Kim Dokja swayed his feet as they sat on the available chairs, waiting for the owner to arrive. “A little sister.” Yoo Joonghyuk said curtly. “Aw, it must be fun to have siblings. I am all alone.” Kim Dokja curved a pout on his lips. Yoo Joonghyuk didn’t say anything yet again. He seems like a man(boy?) of a few words.
“Here is your wand, Mr. Yoo.” An old, wizened wizard with wide, pale eyes shining like moons stood before the two boys. “Hello. First year to Hogwarts?” The old man smiled to him as Kim Dokja nodded shyly. Yoo Joonghyuk eyed him, puzzled by how the other boy who talked his ears off suddenly become timid around the adults. “I am Ollivander. Please wait for your wand as I measure you. Mr. Yoo here will test out his wand. Give it a wave, Mr. Yoo.” Ollivander urged.
Yoo Joonghyuk obliged and waved his wand stoically. A nearby window exploded which made Kim Dokja scream and clung to the other boy’s arm as one of his hands covered his face. Yoo Joonghyuk jolted, startled by the sudden touch instead of the noise. “Nope, nope. Not good.” Ollivander snatched back the wand, walking off to take out another wand.
Kim Dokja trembled, vivid memories of his father smashing an alcohol bottle near his head once flashed through his mind. Yoo Joonghyuk noticed this peculiar behavior and remained quiet as he pried off Kim Dokja’s deathly grip on him gently. “I apologize if I startled you. The process of picking wands is quite noisy most of the time.” He said, face stilled and impassive as ever but voice warm enough for Kim Dokja to stop shivering.
“I’m sorry. That is unsightly of me.” Kim Dokja mumbled, quivering hands tucked to his chest as Yoo Joonghyuk observed him. “Not a good memory?” Yoo Joonghyuk was surprised by himself when he continued the conversation. He’s not much of a talker but something about this boy who shares the same nationality with him intrigued his once dead curiosity.
“No…” Kim Dokja’s voice trailed off as Ollivander walked in with another wand yet again. Yoo Joonghyuk didn’t pry and just nodded which made Kim Dokja relieved. It took another 3 tries when finally, Ollivander handed a long, sturdy brown wand with black hilt to Yoo Joonghyuk who received it with an indescribable face. Black lusters enveloped his wand, stretching out ominously when he waved his wand.
“Aha. I know this will suit you, Mr. Yoo. Blackthorn wood. 12 ¾ inches. Sturdy with the core of the dragon heartstring. Suitable for a warrior and compatible for dueling. Definitely good for Defense Against Dark Arts.” Ollivander ranted as Yoo Joonghyuk looked at him with an apprehensive look. Yoo Joonghyuk wordlessly handed 7 Galleons to Ollivander. “Now, it’s time for your wand, Mr. Kim.” As Ollivander took Kim Dokja’s measurement Kim Dokja glanced at Yoo Joonghyuk who stared at him.
“You are not going?” He asked, swatting away the measuring tape that was measuring his nostrils. Yoo Joonghyuk raised his brows. “Do you want me to?” He asked, not sarcastically but factually. “No! Stay with me!” Kim Dokja said desperately, scared of being left by the only person who knew the same language as him. Yoo Joonghyuk nodded and sat on the chair back, twirling with his wand.
The same process was repeated. A vase exploding, drawers of wands combusted, lightbulbs sparking and the last straw was when the wand literally went up flames before he could touch it. “I am so sorry!” Kim Dokja yelped, horrified by what he did at the last wand. Ollivander merely laughed. “It is quite alright, Mr. Kim. This is normal.” Ollivander waltzed off with a jaunty whistle, excited by the destruction or what, Kim Dokja didn’t know.
“Your wand took longer than mine.” Yoo Joonghyuk said monotonously. “Yeah… I didn’t expect it to take such a long time too.” Kim Dokja grimaced. Finally, it was over when Ollivander handed Kim Dokja a slim yet long brown wand with a white hilt. When Kim Dokja took it, warmth seeped to his bones as white lights shone at the tip of his wand.
“Fabulous! 12 inches, alder wood with the core of unicorn hair. Flexible and unyielding. Quite a charming wand and compatible with Charms.” Kim Dokja nodded along to Ollivander’s explanation as he handed 7 Galleons to him before stepping out of the shop along with Yoo Joonghyuk, books once again in his arms. Yoo Joonghyuk too had books in his arms which belonged to Kim Dokja.
“So, where are your parents, Yoo Joonghyuk-ssi?” Kim Dokja inquired as they sat on the bench before the shop, waiting for their guardians. “Joonghyuk is fine.” Yoo Joonghyuk said blandly. “You can call me Dokja then.” Kim Dokja smiled at Yoo Joonghyuk who nodded.
“I came alone.” Yoo Joonghyuk answered flatly, not minding the fact that an 11 years old was prowling around alone in the middle of bustling streets. “That is irresponsible of them. It’s quite dangerous to walk around alone, Joonghyuk.” Kim Dokja lectured the boy who merely huffed but there was a pleased glimmer in his black eyes, listening to Kim Dokja’s concern.
It’s strange how his parents didn’t even care about his well-being yet this stranger who only knew him for a half-an hour showed more concern than his parents ever did throughout his life.
“Dokja-ya!” A feminine voice rang out and Kim Dokja straightened, an adorable gasp slipped past his mouth as his mother approached them with a cage in tow. “An owl!” Kim Dokja squealed, running up to his mother.
“Mom, what’s this? Is this yours? They are very beautiful!” Kim Dokja cooed as the owl who was preening its fur lifted its head, shining silver orbs met his brown eyes as it spread its downy, fluffy white wings apart. It’s a small pure white owl with feathers like snow. “This is yours, Dokja-ya.” Lee Sookyung said gently.
Kim Dokja froze. “What? B—but, Mom! I told you I don’t need pets now!” Kim Dokja protested. “This is my early present for you. Study hard.” Lee Sookyung smiled, brushing his son’s messy black hair. Kim Dokja felt like crying. How long has it been since he received a gift? He didn’t remember.
“Give it a name. It’s a boy. Like you too.” Lee Sookyung urged as Kim Dokja frowned thoughtfully. His brown eyes once again met the shining yet dreamy silver orbs. “Oldest Dream…” Kim Dokja mumbled, struck by inspiration. “Dream! His name will be Dream in English. Hello, Dream-ya.” The owl hooted like it was approving its name.
“Ah, Mom! I want you to meet someone.” Kim Dokja tugged his mother’s sleeve and dragged her to Yoo Joonghyuk who sat awkwardly on a bench with arms filled with books. “This is Yoo Joonghyuk!” Yoo Joonghyuk bowed stiffly, mumbling a quick, “Hello. Nice to meet you.” in his mother tongue.
A pleasant surprise graced Lee Sookyung’s face before being replaced by a tender smile. “Hello, Yoo Joonghyuk-ssi. I am Kim Dokja’s mother – Lee Sookyung.” His mother introduced herself. “Joonghyuk is fine, Madam.” Yoo Joonghyuk said politely.
“Dokja-ya, did you force him to carry your books?” A teasing smile curled on her lips as her son sputtered in embarrassment. “No, no! That’s not it, Mom! Joonghyuk just helped me because there is a lot to carry! Right, Joonghyuk?” Kim Dokja whipped his head to Yoo Joonghyuk who still had his poker face on.
“That’s true, Madam. I helped him even when he head-butted me.” Yoo Joonghyuk added dully although there was faint amusement at the line of his mouth. Lee Sookyung’s brown eyes widened, not expecting the remark at all. “Dokja-ya, what have you done?” She whirled around, exaggeratingly gasping as if playing along to Yoo Joonghyuk’s teasing.
Kim Dokja gaped at Yoo Joonghyuk and his mother who hit it off well to tease him like this. “Unbelievable. Both of you are ganging up on me.” Kim Dokja said in disbelief and feigned disappointment. Lee Sookyung hid her giggles behind her palm while Yoo Joonghyuk merely shrugged.
“Young Master!” A masculine yet high-pitched voice could be heard and a young man swathed in an outfit similar to Yoo Joonghyuk came running out, carrying all sorts of bags and lugging a big cage with a large black owl in it. His white hair was tousled messily and red pupils flooded with relief as he stopped before Yoo Joonghyuk whose face immediately adopted into an apathetic one. “Bihyung.” Yoo Joonghyuk acknowledged the panting man.
“Young Master, I told you to not run off like that!” Bihyung cried out in Korean. Then he turned to Lee Sookyung, bowing to her deeply. “Thank you for taking care of him!” He said in English. “Oh, it is fine. He’s a polite and well-mannered child.” Lee Sookyung replied in Korean gladly. “A Korean!” Bihyung grinned, immediately switching to his mother tongue as he beamed to the woman and the other boy.
Young Master? Kim Dokja wondered, side-eyeing Yoo Joonghyuk curiously. Truthfully, Yoo Joonghyuk did emit that vibe of a young noble but to have his thoughts confirmed was something else. No wonder he got that elegant and sophisticated aura around him.
“Young Master is befriending someone? Now that is something worth reporting to Young Miss.” Bihyung grinned cheekily at the young boy who glared at him. “Stop corrupting Mia, Bihyung.” A scowl formed on the youthful face. Bihyung barked out a laugh. “We should head home now then we got all your supplies, Dokja-ya.” Lee Sookyung said to Kim Dokja who nodded dutifully.
“See you at Hogwarts, Joonghyuk!” Kim Dokja waved to Yoo Joonghyuk after he took all of his books from Yoo Joonghyuk, a sincere smile curled on his lips as he walked away along with his mother, leaving Bihyung and Yoo Joonghyuk behind after exchanging pleasantries.
“Yeah, see you.” Yoo Joonghyuk mumbled, earning a bemused glance from Bihyung. For once in his life, Yoo Joonghyuk had something to look forward to.
“Mom. Stop sniveling.” Kim Dokja groaned to Lee Sookyung who was sniffing, ivory handkerchief covering her reddened nose as she watched Kim Dokja who was standing before the Hogwarts Express – a crimson locomotive train puffing out steam that shone brilliantly under the glaring sun. His mother was usually good in controlling her emotions but now she kept on having those teary eyes that made Kim Dokja reluctant to leave her.
“I can’t help it. My little boy is now all grown up and goes far away from his mother.” Lee Sookyung dramatically sighed as she picked up Kim Dokja effortlessly, causing Kim Dokja to squawk in mortification. “MOM! I am too old for you to pick me up this way!” Kim Dokja squirmed in his mother’s embrace before giving up and went limp in her hold with a disgruntled huff.
“Once a baby, always a baby.” Lee Sookyung smugly declared as she buried her nose to Kim Dokja’s messy black hair. “I will miss you, Dokja-ya.” Lee Sookyung whispered as Kim Dokja wrapped his thin arms around Lee Sookyung’s petite frame. “Me too, Mom.” Kim Dokja rested his head on his mother’s bosom. The mother and son embraced tightly when a loud puff of steam interrupted their bonding session.
“Gotta go, Mom!” Kim Dokja hurriedly released his mother, pecking her cheek with a blushing face before rushing off into the train. Kim Dokja caught his breath, waving to his mother from the window. Lee Sookyung waved her handkerchief, a joyful smile carved on her face.
Kim Dokja missed her already.
Kim Dokja carried a single backpack, both his luggage and cage containing Dream were already inside the train. He peeked around to look for an empty compartment, feeling daunted when he saw people much larger and bigger than him.
He slid into what he thought as an empty compartment that surprisingly held someone familiar to him. “Joonghyuk!” Kim Dokja called out in surprise. The boy who was staring off to the space jolted, void like eyes showed emotions for the first time.
“Kim Dokja.” Yoo Joonghyuk said, brows loosened from his thoughtful frown. “Who would’ve thought that I would meet you on the train?” Kim Dokja slid into the compartment, sitting opposite of Yoo Joonghyuk as he set his backpack beside the window. Silent as ever, Yoo Joonghyuk just gazed at him with those infuriatingly impassive yet attractive face.
“You’re sitting here all alone? One of the compartments that I saw is filled to the brim.” Kim Dokja nonchalantly said as he pulled out Hogwarts: A History from his backpack, flipping to the last page he read where he bookmarked it last night. Kim Dokja leant his back to the cushion, finding a comfortable position to start his reading.
“You like reading?” Kim Dokja jolted, not expecting Yoo Joonghyuk to start a conversation with him. He hummed, nodding languidly as he traced the spine of the hardcover book. “Loves it. Gives me peace of mind.” Kim Dokja said, a gentle smile curled on his lips.
Yoo Joonghyuk stared at him with an unreadable gaze and Kim Dokja didn’t reply, mind already immersed with the inked words, rustling papers and the hardcover of the book.
“—Dokja. Kim Dokja.” Kim Dokja flinched when his book was taken away, Yoo Joonghyuk’s frowning face appeared before him. “S—sorry?” Kim Dokja blinked as Yoo Joonghyuk quietly pointed to the outside of the compartment.
“Trolley.” He said curtly. Kim Dokja curiously turned his brown eyes and was met with an old witch pushing a trolley with an array of snacks. Kim Dokja’s brown orbs glimmered with interest as he leapt from the cushiony seat, walking to the trolley.
“Wow.” He gasped softly, looking at the sweets with a watering mouth. “Anything off the cart, dear?” The witch smiled kindly at the little boy. “I don’t know which one to have though…” Kim Dokja mumbled in Korean as his mind calculated the amount of money he could spend for the snacks.
Kim Dokja rarely indulges in snacks and junk foods since well, you know, the state of his family didn’t allow him to do so. Sometimes his mother sneaks in some candies and chocolates but the sweets in front of him are too unfamiliar for him.
“Two for each.” A smooth English rolled out from behind him. Yoo Joonghyuk stood behind him, handing out several Galleons to the witch who joyfully piled all the snacks into Yoo Joonghyuk’s arms. Yoo Joonghyuk closed the doors before Kim Dokja had any liberty to order something from the trolley.
“Hey! I haven’t bought anything!” Kim Dokja protested with a frown as Yoo Joonghyuk ignored him, peeling open one of the snacks which looked like chocolate(?) and popped it into his mouth. Kim Dokja swallowed his saliva as Yoo Joonghyuk munched on the chocolate.
“Are you just going to watch?” Yoo Joonghyuk curved his refined brows questioningly as he tossed one of the packs to Kim Dokja who caught it clumsily. “For me?” Kim Dokja blinked dubiously as Yoo Joonghyuk rolled his eyes, finally showing some sort of humane reaction.
Kim Dokja smiled sheepishly and opened the pack, a frog-shaped chocolate came hopping out from the pack which made Kim Dokja shout in surprise. “What in the world?!” Kim Dokja scrambled to Yoo Joonghyuk’s side, watching the hopping chocolate with wary yet curious eyes.
Yoo Joonghyuk’s reflex kicked in and he caught the chocolate easily. Without any words, he shoved the chocolate into Kim Dokja’s mouth. “Mmmpphhh?!” Kim Dokja’s muffled yelp was smothered when the chocolate burst in his mouth, flooding his taste buds with gooey sweet flavor.
“Huh. It tastes normal.” Kim Dokja mumbled, bewildered, chewing on the chocolate gingerly. “Look inside.” Yoo Joonghyuk motioned to the pack and Kim Dokja retrieved a card from inside of the pack. It’s a picture of an emerald-eyed man with a lightning shaped scar on his forehead.
Harry Potter – The boy who lived. Considered as a hero for defeating Dark Lord Voldemort. A former Head of Auror. Currently working in the Ministry as Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
“Harry Potter.” Kim Dokja mumbled, turning the card back to the front only to be startled when the man in the picture was gone. “It’s gone!” Kim Dokja blurted out although this wasn’t the first time he saw this kind of thing since the portraits back in Leaky Cauldron were fond of doing that too. He was just taken aback by it literally disappeared while he was still holding onto the card.
“What? Do you expect him to stay there all day?” A note of amusement flickered in Yoo Joonghyuk’s monotonous voice. Kim Dokja flushed in embarrassment as he puffed his cheeks adorably. “Hey! I am still not used to all of these.” He muttered under his breath.
“You’re a Muggle-born.” Yoo Joonghyuk stated as Kim Dokja nodded, pulling another snack to his hands while inspecting it curiously. “Yeah, Professor McGonagall told me that when she visited my house in Korea before.” Yoo Joonghyuk stilled for a moment, a glint of curiosity and apprehensiveness flashed in his black eyes.
“A Headmistress of Hogwarts met you directly.” Yoo Joonghyuk took back the snacks from Kim Dokja’s fumbling hands and opened it properly before handing it back to the peculiar boy. “Yeah. Is it weird?” Kim Dokja tilted his head, teeth sinking to the pastry and tarty flavor lathered his buds.
“Hm. What is this? Tastes good.” Kim Dokja hummed, greedily taking another bite. “Pumpkin Pasties.” Yoo Joonghyuk answered instead of voicing out his curiosity. It’s none of his business if this boy before him was visited by the Headmistress herself.
“So, are you a Muggle-born too? You seem knowledgeable enough so I guess you are not. Half-blood or pureblood?” Kim Dokja’s brown eyes blinked as he nibbled on the pastry. “Pureblood.” Yoo Joonghyuk answered tersely, stiffening involuntarily. Kim Dokja merely hummed. “No wonder. You radiate a rich person’s aura.” He shrugged and patted his hands to sweep away the crumbs.
Yoo Joonghyuk relaxed when Kim Dokja didn’t ask him further about his family. Seems like he is not the type to care about family’s background. His shoulders loosened as he handed another snack to Kim Dokja whose eyes glimmered with childish delight.
A puff of amusement slipped past his mouth, slow enough that Kim Dokja didn’t notice it. “Blergh. What is this, Joonghyuk?” Kim Dokja stuck his tongue out as his brown eyes pricked with tears. Yoo Joonghyuk’s black eyes focused on the pack held by Kim Dokja.
“I thought it’s just a normal jellybean but what kind of crazy person created a tomato jellybean?” Kim Dokja fussed with teary eyes as he wiped his mouth. “Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans.” Yoo Joonghyuk uttered. “ Every? ” Kim Dokja’s eyes widened incredulously as Yoo Joonghyuk nodded once again.
“Couldn’t warn me earlier, can’t you?” Kim Dokja glared at Yoo Joonghyuk mockingly as he handed back the snacks to Yoo Joonghyuk who took one and threw it into his mouth. Kim Dokja looked at him eagerly. “Spinach.” Yoo Joonghyuk said blandly, munching on the jellybean with a stoic face.
Kim Dokja rolled his eyes. “What do I even expect from you?” He sighed dramatically. “Be quiet and eat your snacks, Kim Dokja.”
“Whoa. He’s huge.” Kim Dokja whispered to Yoo Joonghyuk, now donned in a black robe with a black tie. Yoo Joonghyuk apathetically watched a looming man before them as Kim Dokja stuck close to him. “Rubeus Hagrid. Gamekeeper of Hogwarts.” Yoo Joonghyuk stated as Kim Dokja hummed, taking note of the information that he already knew from Professor McGonagall. It was rather nice for someone to be mindful of his lacking knowledge though.
“Firs’ years! Firs’ years over here!” Hagrid’s voice boomed loudly as he waved his giant arm to the tiny children. “Stay close.” Yoo Joonghyuk said as Kim Dokja held the edge of his robe’s sleeve quickly, not wanting to part from a familiar face so soon. And judging by Yoo Joonghyuk’s reminder earlier, he wasn’t keen to be separated from his acquaintance(?) as well.
Bypassing the other children and boarding boats to cross the lake, Kim Dokja missed on how everyone’s eyes lingered on him and Yoo Joonghyuk. Especially Yoo Joonghyuk.
Kim Dokja settled in front of Yoo Joonghyuk, balancing precariously on the swaying boat. A steady hand planted on his shoulder so he won’t topple himself over into the lake. “Thanks.” Kim Dokja flashed a quick smile to Yoo Joonghyuk who only nodded.
They crossed the lake and Kim Dokja looked at the beautiful, glittering stars hanging above the night sky. The reflection of the moon rippled as the boats cut through the lake. A magnificent castle was standing proudly under the bright moon and shining stars.
A gasp of awe escaped from Kim Dokja’s mouth as he relished the sight with parting lips. He was totally ignorant on how a pair of black eyes were trained on him the whole journey, finding him more intriguing than the castle itself.
Kim Dokja hopped off the boat when it came ashore followed by Yoo Joonghyuk who made a smooth exit, feet landing soundlessly on the ground as they waited for further instructions. “This place is so beautiful, Joonghyuk!” Kim Dokja flipped his messy bangs away as he smiled at Yoo Joonghyuk who merely nodded.
“It sure is.” Was the only reply coming from Yoo Joonghyuk. Their foreign language attracted nearby students but they ignored them. Although the whispers finally reached Kim Dokja.
“It’s him, right? Yoo Joonghyuk.”
“I guess so. He’s here in Hogwarts.”
“He comes from a famous purebloods family.”
“The Yoo’s Family, right?”
“The sole heir of the Yoo’s Family.”
“Ferocious family I heard. All of them are Aurors.”
“Yeah, his lineage probably will put him in the same house like the rest of his family members.”
“Which house is it again?”
“I think it’s–“
“Welcome!” A stout woman with a brown robe stood before them with a brilliant smile. Kim Dokja stood in daze, glancing at the expressionless Yoo Joonghyuk before focusing his attention on the woman before him.
"The start-of-term banquet will begin shortly, but before you take your seats in the Great Hall, you will be sorted into your houses. The Sorting is a very important ceremony because, while you are here, your house will be something like your family within Hogwarts." The woman who introduced herself as Pomona Sprout explained, hands waving animatedly.
Kim Dokja tilted his head to the side, noting the sorting ceremony that he had read in Hogwarts: A History . Family, huh… Kim Dokja thought as he fiddled with the hem of his robe. They walked to a huge door leading to the Great Hall which opened dramatically.
Anxiety automatically shot up when numerous eyes landed on him. An old hat rested on a stool suddenly opened its mouth and sang. “It talks!” Kim Dokja yelped as the corner of Yoo Joonghyuk’s lips twitched at the other boy’s reaction. When the hat finished singing, the rip on its hem which resembled a mouth sealed away. “When I call out your names, please come up here.” Professor Sprout conjured a scroll before clearing her throat.
Oh, God. We will be doing this in front of these people? Kim Dokja swallowed his unease, hand automatically latched on Yoo Joonghyuk’s sleeve. The other boy glanced down when he felt something weighed him down but he didn’t shrug him off.
“Angela, Michael.” A boy came onto the stool with a nervous face. The old hat was placed on his head. It moved and twitched before opening its mouth again. “RAVENCLAW!” Cheers rose from the blue and bronze table. Ravenclaw – favors wit, intelligence and wisdom. Kim Dokja’s mind supplied the information automatically.
“Carlos, Rose.” A brunette bounded to the stool with a mild nauseous expression. The hat barely brushed her head when it yelled out, “HUFFLEPUFF!” earning applause from the yellow and black table that welcomed her with friendly smiles. Hufflepuff – values hard work, gentle and loyal. Kim Dokja thought, feeling interested in this house.
“Heewon, Jung.” Kim Dokja and Yoo Joonghyuk simultaneously perked up at the familiar-sounding Korean name. A girl with black bun hair walked slowly to the stool with a cool expression. “GRYFFINDOR!” The hat roared. Boisterous cheers rose from the red and golden table. Gryffindor – favors bravery, chivalry and daring . Kim Dokja noted thoughtfully. This house doesn’t really sound suitable for him because he wasn’t all of those.
“Dokja, Kim.” Kim Dokja flinched, cold sweats manifested on his palms. He felt his elbow being squeezed reassuringly by Yoo Joonghyuk before he was pushed forward by the other boy. Swallowing, his darting brown eyes met Professor McGonagall’s stern yet kind eyes. He breathed out softly and sat on the stool, sorting hat placed on his head.
Kim Dokja’s nose wrinkled immediately. He is so going to wash off his hair after this. Quite rude, aren’t you? Kim Dokja jolted, not expecting a voice inside his head. Hm, let’s see. A charming lad with a glib tongue. Very resourceful, ambitious and cunning. Yet, brave and loyal too. Protective of those dear to you. Quite a complicated fella, aren’t you? Kim Dokja fidgeted with his sleeves, feeling oddly nervous. Ah, I know just well which house to put you in.
“SLYTHERIN!” Cheers erupted from the green and silver table. Professor Sprout took off the hat and Kim Dokja walked to his house, brown eyes coincidentally meeting Yoo Joonghyuk’s void black eyes. The other boy was nonchalant as ever yet there was an unreadable glint in his eyes. Slytherin – values ambition, resourceful and cunning. Huh, who would’ve thought. Kim Dokja smiled in amusement.
“Hello! You’re not from around here, aren’t you?” An older boy with emerald eyes and black hair greeted him with a friendly smile. “Ah, I’m not. I am from Korea.” Kim Dokja said, accented English flowing out. He was trying to get rid of his accent but it was quite hard to do so. The boy laughed. “Thought so. Hey, Scorpius! You owe me 10 sickles.” A boy with silver hair and grey eyes grumbled yet there was exasperation on his face as he handed the silver coins.
“I’m Albus Potter. Fifth year. This is my best friend, Scorpius Malfoy.” Albus jabbed his thumb to the boy sitting beside him who waved casually at him. “Hello. Nice to meet you.” Kim Dokja inclined his head politely yet there was something familiar with the boy before him. “Did you say Potter? Are you related with Harry Potter by chance?” Kim Dokja inquired as a wry smile formed on Albus’ lips like he was used to being asked that question all the time. Scorpius patted Albus’ shoulder comfortingly.
“Yeah, he’s my father.” Was the answer. “Ah… I’m sorry if I offend you. I just thought your name is quite familiar. I found a card of your father in one of the snacks my… friend bought. I am quite new to the wizarding world.” Kim Dokja explained awkwardly, mentally adding Yoo Joonghyuk as his friend. Glimmer of amusement shone in Albus’ emerald eyes.
“You are a Muggle-born then?” Kim Dokja nodded. Some of those who were eavesdropping made a frowning face and leant away from Kim Dokja like he was carrying a disease. Scorpius’ and Albus’ faces hardened at their reactions. “Don’t mind them. They are just a bunch of stuck-up purebloods.” Scorpius soothed the clueless boy.
“You are one of them, Scorpius.” Albus grinned to his best friend who rolled his eyes. “That’s not the point and you know it.” Scorpius remarked as Kim Dokja watched their playful banter. His mind processed the fact that purebloods are quite snobbish. Yoo Joonghyuk seemed different though. Sure, he radiates those sophisticated and elegant aura of a noble yet he doesn’t act like a snob but a gentleman instead.
“Joonghyuk, Yoo.” Kim Dokja was snapped out of his musing when Yoo Joonghyuk’s name was called out and his focus was directed to the apathetic boy who climbed up the stool with a blank face. “By the way, when you first years came in, I saw you trailing after Yoo Joonghyuk. Are you close with him?” Scorpius asked, curiosity glinted in his grey eyes.
“I guess so? He is quite friendly despite his face.” Kim Dokja joked, yet the two boys’ faces were unmoved. “Hah! Who would’ve thought. The prince of the Yoo’s Family is close with a Slytherin and Muggle-born of all people.” A girl nearby with Kim Dokja sneered at him.
Kim Dokja frowned at her condescending tone but he didn’t say anything although he was puzzled by how she called Yoo Joonghyuk of all people, a prince. “You seem confused.” A sympathetic smile graced on Scorpius’ lips.
“Yoo Joonghyuk is the sole heir of the Yoo’s Family. They are the oldest and richest pureblood family in Asia. They migrated to Britain when their ancestors married a pureblood family here. There is a rumour that they have the blood of royalty a thousand years ago back in their country. That is why he is sometimes called as a prince.” Scorpius explained while tapping his fingers on the table.
Kim Dokja’s brows curved unknowingly. Blood of royalty? Now that is something since most of the blood or royals are rare to be seen in Korea. After all, it had been years since Korea was ruled by democracy.
“All of their family members are Aurors. Ah, Auror is a highly trained law enforcement official for magical governments.” Scorpius quickly clarified when Kim Dokja’s puzzled face met him. Kim Dokja nodded, filing away that fact. “Their family is very ferocious and notorious for having incomparable talent in dueling. And their family members are usually sorted into…” Scorpius grimaced, not wanting to burst this child’s innocence soon.
“Into a house that is not compatible with ours.” Korean flowed out from a boy with silver hair and golden eyes as he sat close to Kim Dokja. The older boy had a gentle smile as he looked at Kim Dokja. “Sung Hyunjae. Third year.” Kim Dokja inclined his head automatically.
“Polite child, aren’t you?” Mirth danced within those golden eyes. “What do you mean by not compatible with ours? What sort of house is that?” Kim Dokja tilted his head to the Korean boy in confusion. “You know Korean, Sung?” Albus piped up after Sung Hyunjae smiled at him. “Why wouldn’t I? I am Korean although I don’t look like it.” Sung Hyunjae replied smoothly before focusing on Kim Dokja.
“There is a rivalry between the houses in Hogwarts. And the worst rivalry is between Gryffindor and Slytherin.” Sung Hyunjae twined his elegant fingers together, resting his chin on his hands. “You know what I mean, don’t you? You are a clever child after all.” Sung Hyunjae smiled with eyes closed that didn’t look sincere at all.
Kim Dokja’s body was riddled with goosebumps and his brown eyes immediately latched on Yoo Joonghyuk’s figure. Time slowed down as their eyes met. Yoo Joonghyuk’s face was unreadable as ever while his black eyes glistened with icy glint. The mouth of the sorting hat opened, roaring out the name of a house that will change their lives. For the better or worse, who knows?
“GRYFFINDOR!”