The night over Hogwarts was unusually dark, clouds swirling ominously above the castle. A chill wind whispered through the grounds, carrying a sense of unease that even the portraits seemed to notice.
Inside the Great Hall, Headmistress Minerva McGonagall stood at the podium, scanning the excited and nervous faces of the new students. "Welcome to Hogwarts," she began, her voice firm yet warm. "This year promises challenges, adventures… and lessons you will never forget."
The Sorting Hat began its work. One by one, students were called, and soon it was Albus Potter's turn.
When the Hat reached James Potter, it whispered in his mind:
"Ah… Gryffindor, yes… but I sense your admiration for Slytherin courage and cunning."
James chuckled. "I wanted Slytherin," he admitted. "I've always admired Severus Snape… but I'm happy in Gryffindor too."
Albus looked at him, confused. "But Dad said the Hat would listen to our wishes."
"True," Rose added, smiling. "The Hat listens, but it always chooses the house that fits your personality."
Lunch passed quickly, and Rose couldn't help but glance repeatedly at Headmistress McGonagall.
James noticed. "Are you… secretly in love with Minerva?"
Rose scowled. "Why do you always tease me?"
"I just admire her," she said softly. "She's brave and wise, like Mum and Dad always said. She fought to save Hogwarts and Harry Uncle."
After dinner, Minerva reminded everyone, "Go to your rooms carefully. No one is to be out at night without permission, or there will be consequences."
Albus walked slowly, feeling uneasy. James nudged him. "Why so dull? You wanted Gryffindor, and now you're here with Frank too."
"I… I miss Dad," Albus admitted. "You're both skilled at magic, Rose, like Aunt Hermione. I feel I'm not strong like him."
Rose smiled. "Albus, you're already strong—clever and brave, just like your name."
James bent down, holding Albus's chin. "You're just like Dad. Harry won battles not only because of magic but because he believed in himself, his friends, and Hogwarts. You have that too—believe in yourself."
Hagrid appeared behind them, beaming. "Right, James! Welcome, all of you. You're like your parents, every one of you. Albus, you'll face challenges, but you'll have everyone by your side."
Albus smiled as he and Frank Longbottom, Neville's courageous son, headed to their shared room. Meanwhile, Professor Trelawney sipped coffee with the other teachers, discussing Harry's past adventures.
When she hugged Minerva, her eyes widened in panic. "Oh… no… NO!" she gasped. "The Dark Lord… Voldemort… rising… stronger than ever…"
Her vision blurred, and she collapsed to the floor.
Far away, Voldemort emerged from the shadows, cloak and hat shrouding his form. His eyes burned with revenge as he gazed at Hogwarts.
"I'm coming, Harry Potter… again," he hissed.
Raising his hands, he summoned dark flames that leapt from his fingertips. The nearby bushes ignited instantly, turning to ashes within moments, smoke curling into the night sky—a warning of the chaos he was about to unleash.