Benny looked at his black converses underneath the long flowing cloaks of Hogwarts and sighed. He didn't know that he wanted to be here, but shrugged that off. He gazed up and caught his cousin's eye, then looked down again and bit back a smile. He knew his family were rooting for him. Benny was the first of Tess's children to find their way to Hogwarts New Zealand, Riley and Olive having been at Beauxbatons. But as a part of the family's move to New Zealand, he had to begin his scholastic career here, with his cousin. The hat finished it's song and Benny fiddled with his hand, suddenly immersed in the fingernail of his thumb on the left hand.
The names were down to the 'i's now. Benny began to daydream, wondering which house he'd get. He stood next to his 'friends', although Benny hardly knew the group he was pleased to have someone familiar there to stand by. Finally, the man called his name. "Lillis, Benny." the voice called firmly. Benny stepped out, closer to the crowd of students watching him and paused a moment. It's just like a grading, he reminded himself, and continued to the three legged stool, nerves overcoming him he sat down with shaking knees. It seemed ridiculous for Benny to be this nervous, the normally confident boy mused as the hat closed over his head. He took a deep breath. "So, hey there. Mr Hat? Uh, what do I call you? Aroha told me you could talk. I didn't believe her, but then I suppose it's magic, anything can happen. Oh I dunno. Am I confusing you? I confuse me a lot. I probably need a break, but I'm almost at black stripe and don't want to stop. Ugh I cannot believe I am talking to a HAT. Uh, no offence hat. I must look stupid sitting up here with the hat on my head. 'cept I suppose everyone's used to this. When does this ceremony end? It's a little boring, I could be using this time to train. Oooh I almost forgot. I want to be a Gryffindor, Mr Hat. With Aroha, so I can look after her. Did you know she's sick? Mummy told me to look after her.." Benny's thoughts trailed off as he realized the hat wanted to speak. "Sorry," he thought, blushing pink as the hat opened it's mouth, finally able to speak.
"Shut it, boy. You're supposed to be wise and you drone on. I'm busy. Do you see how many first years there are to sort? Do you intend to help with that? No, I don't suppose so. That's my job. So hush, and go sit with RAVENCLAW!"