The Great Hall buzzed with excitement as Alice York, her dark hair cascading over emerald robes, strode in, her presence commanding attention. Slytherin House erupted in applause, acknowledging their prodigal talent returning from a summer of clandestine research.

"Welcome back, Alice!"

Called a friend from her house.

"Thanks, it's good to be back,"

Alice replied with a wry smile, her gaze sweeping the room, assessing alliances forming and the undercurrents of power at play.