The dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts echoed with the tension that hung in the air. Salazar Slytherin paced furiously in the Great Hall, his usually calm demeanor shattered by the heated argument he had just had with Godric Gryffindor. The two had been at odds for weeks over the direction of the school, their differing philosophies colliding like storm clouds.

“Bravery does not justify reckless foolishness!” Salazar had shouted, his voice reverberating off the stone walls as he faced Godric, whose bold spirit was always ready for a challenge. “Your blind faith in everyone leads to chaos, and I will not stand idly by while you put our students at risk!”

Godric’s response had been calm, yet resolute, his voice steady. “And I will not apologize for believing in their potential, Salazar. They deserve the chance to prove themselves!”

The argument had escalated until Salazar, overwhelmed with frustration, had turned sharply on his heel and stormed out of the Great Hall. His emerald robes billowed behind him like a dark cloud as he made his way through the winding halls of Hogwarts, his anger simmering beneath the surface.

He stormed toward his secret chamber, a hidden sanctuary deep within the dungeons, where he often retreated to collect his thoughts and practice his magic away from prying eyes. As he reached the heavy stone door, he shoved it open with more force than necessary, letting it slam shut behind him with a resounding thud.

The chamber was dimly lit, illuminated only by the flickering torches mounted on the walls. Shelves lined with ancient tomes and potion ingredients surrounded him, but he paid them no mind as he paced the length of the room.