The towering walls of Hogwarts Castle loomed under a turbulent sky, casting long shadows over the grounds as the new term began. Inside the Great Hall, students chattered excitedly, the air alive with anticipation. However, an unspoken tension hung over the festivities, palpable in the way the students occasionally cast glances toward the empty headmaster’s seat.

Sir Godric Gryffindor, the legendary founder and headmaster, was notably absent—a frequent occurrence that had become a point of contention among the staff and students. As a knight sworn to serve a Muggle king, Godric often found himself away from Hogwarts, summoned to defend the realm against threats that required his unique skills. This dual commitment had begun to fray the bonds between the founders, especially with Salazar Slytherin, who viewed Gryffindor’s absence as a betrayal of their shared vision.

At the Gryffindor table, whispers circulated about the headmaster’s latest exploits, while at the Slytherin table, Salazar’s scornful comments about Gryffindor’s priorities only fueled the fire of dissent. As the feast continued, a tension loomed—a storm brewing not only outside but also within the very heart of the castle.

As the students feasted, the enchanted ceiling mirrored the tumultuous weather above, reflecting dark clouds that rolled in with a threatening growl of thunder. The anticipation of the term was soon overshadowed by the uncertainty of their leader’s return and the implications of his absence on Hogwarts and its future.